2007 Nissan Sentra

Like so many vehicles these days, the newly redesigned Sentra is bigger and more powerful than its compact fifth-generation predecessor. Buyers also get a new powertrain choice: Nissan's highly capable continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Styling

Redesigning the long-lived Sentra for its sixth generation has clarified the distinction between it and Nissan's new subcompact Versa. Measuring 5.9 inches longer in wheelbase than its predecessor, and 2.3 inches longer overall, the 2007 Sentra is 4 inches taller and 3.2 inches wider. Passenger volume has increased by 8.9 cubic feet. Trunk space has grown by 1.5 cubic feet.


Built on Nissan-Renault's Global C platform, the Sentra is again manufactured in Aguascalientes, Mexico. Up front, in particular, some styling touches are reminiscent of the Quest minivan. Designed for North America, the 2007 Sentra has an interior that's "a little more upscale and functional" than before, said product specialist Ken Kcomt. A new instrument-panel layout is installed, and the gearshift lever has moved upward from its former floor location.


A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine replaces the prior 1.8-liter, delivering 140 horsepower versus the former 126. Torque output escalates from 129 to 147 pound-feet. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, but plenty of Sentras will employ Nissan's continuously variable transmission. Also available in four other models, it's the third-generation CVT, which Kcomt says is "a strategic technology for Nissan." About 700 algorithms are available from the CVT's controller. An overdrive button alters the shift point by about 2000 rpm, to improve responsiveness.

Performance

A new rendition of the high-performance SE-R Senta includes a 177-horsepower engine, while the Spec V version gets a high-output 200-horsepower four-cylinder.