Nissan totally redesigned its subcompact Sentra for the 1995 model year. It's rounded, less boxy-looking exterior complements a larger, competent interior while horsepower has been increased. Sentra is part of Nissan's three-sedan marketing mix which includes the mid-size, four-cylinder Altima and powerful, newly-designed, six-cylinder Maxima. The fourth-generation Sentra, first introduced in 1982, is sold as a four-door, front-wheel-drive sedan. Nissan's all-new, two-door 200SX sports coupe is assembled from the same basic design, and replaces two-door Sentras this model year. The Smyrna, Tenn.-built Sentra is available in four trim levels: base, value-oriented XE, the popular GXE, and the top-of-the-line, well equipped GLE. Price of base models start at approximately $11,000. Our test drive model, a ruby red GLE had a manufacturers suggested retail base price of $15,249. That price includes air conditioning, four-speed automatic transmission, power windows and locks, cruise control, keyless entry system, power steering and power-sliding sunroof. Optional anti-lock brakes ($995) and destination charge ($390) brought the total to $16,634. All trim levels feature tilt steering column, front map pockets, multi-speed windshield wipers, dual cup holders, and tinted glass. Wheel base, defined as the distance between the front and rear axle, has been extended to 99.8 inches. While the wheel base has grown four inches, overall length remains essentially the same; creating a larger, roomier interior. This was accomplished, in part, with Sentra's new, more efficient suspension system. Each trim level features multi-link beam rear suspension, first introduced on the 1995 Maxima. This system replaces rear struts and reduces road noise and improves handling. Struts continue handling front suspension. Improved suspension, larger muffler, stiffer body structure and new powertrain greatly improve the ride of the new Sentra, while reducing road interior noise significantly. Inside, head and leg room have been improved. Drivers have good road vision in every direction. Dials control temperature controls and fan speed, which are situated on the dashboard in reach of both front seat passengers. A dual cup holder retracts from the center console below the stereo system. Fuel and trunk release levers are located left of the driver's bucket seat. A dashboard button activates cruise control, while set and resume buttons are found on the steering wheel. Individuals who spend many hours behind the wheel benefit from Sentra's new 'low fatigue' front seats. This unique design offers compound support of the pelvis, helping to comfort weary backsides on extended trips. Our test model included optional velour seats which added a nice touch. Trunk design is well engineered . Low liftover makes loading and unloading groceries or golf clubs a snap. A spare tire is stowed under the flat floorboard. The back bench seat features a 60-40 split, increasing cargo-carrying capacity. Dual air bags, front and rear crumple zones, energy absorbing bumpers and side-door guard beams help Sentra meet all Federal safety standards through 1998. All Sentra trim levels are powered by a relatively small, 1.6-liter, electronically fuel injected engine, delivering 115 horsepower; up from 110. The powertrain is potent enough to move the 2,300 lbs. car and its driver adequately. However, if three or four occupants and their 40 lbs. of beach wear are accompanying you to the lakefront, pickup is a bit sluggish. Gas mileage, however, is excellent. Four-speed automatics with overdrive are rated at 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. Our test model with 5,200 odometer miles registered 32 mpg combined city and highway. Sentras with five-speed manual transmissions do even better. They're rated at 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. The fuel tank holds 13.2 gallons of unleaded gasoline. Five-speed manual overdrive transmission is standard. Four-speed automatic transmission is optional on all models except base. |