2005 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V

Value meets velocity

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In 1991, Nissan introduced a concept that proved very radical for its day—an entry level, factory performance, compact sedan. The original Sentra SE-R had a relatively short run, just three model years. The idea of a small performance sedan remained a priority within Nissan and the Sentra SE-R returned in 2002 with a new look, more power and performance.

The field of race-inspired, entry-level, compact sport sedans priced under $20,000 has grown today with competition coming from the Mazda 3s, Toyota Corolla XRS, Ford Focus ZX4 ST, Saturn ION Redline, Chevy Cobalt SS, Dodge Neon SRT-4, etc. Nissan has countered this encroaching competition with the new 2005 Sentra SE-R Spec V. The Spec V is a step above the SE-R, and is the best at blending bold, aggressive styling, power, performance, comfort and safety with value for the dollar.

The distinctive styling features a front fascia with a low front bumper encompassing a wide air-intake and round fog lamps. The signature Nissan grille is surrounded by one-piece, multi-parabola halogen headlamps. The silhouette of the SE-R Spec V features body-color side extensions, SE-R Spec V badges, and low profile, 215/45ZR17 high-performance tires wrapped around 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Adding a final touch, the rear fascia includes a spoiler on top, and two, large chrome exhaust tips below.

Continuing the tradition of sport-inspired interior design, the SE-R Spec V provides an interior environment designed for the racer-at-heart. The ergonomic styling creates a modern appearance using black and silver accents, thickly bolstered Nissan Skyline-styled sport bucket seats, a new 6-speed shift knob and sporty steering wheel. The instrument cluster is straight-ahead and easy to see. All dials, buttons and levers are within short reach to make driving the SE-R Spec V fun and exciting. The interior is not "bare-bones"—you get standard power windows/door locks, conveniently placed cupholders, and a good amount of storage capacity with storage pockets, a stylish center console with a closing lid, and a large glove box.

Powering the SE-R Spec V is a specially-tuned, 2.5-liter, 16-valve, DOHC, all-aluminum, 4-cylinder engine producing 175 hp at 6,000 rpm and 180 lb.-ft. of torque at just 4,000 rpm. The engine is a modular design with molybdenum coated lightweight pistons, micro-finished crank journals and cam lobes, electronically controlled throttle and continuously variable valve timing. To combat vibrations inherent in large four-cylinder engines, the SE-R Spec V QR25 engine features liquid-filled engine mounts, a silent chain drive, and a compact balancer system that effectively negates vibrations without taking up too much space—a problem with previous balancer designs.