2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V (2024)

Chassis

Behind the 17-inch wheels are 11.7-inch front and 11.5-inch rear disc brakes in the SE-R; the Spec V upgrades to 12.6-inch rotors. ABS is standard, but the Sentra SE-R is one of the only sporty compacts extant that doesn't offer stability control. In the SE-R, stiffer springs are the only other major chassis change from the base Sentra. The Spec V goes a step further with more aggressive summer tires, 0.4-inch-lower springs, a larger 25mm front stabilizer bar, and extra bracing in the front and rear. The Spec V also offers an optional helical limited-slip front differential. Both cars retain the strut-front and torsion-beam-rear suspension setup. Despite its being less sophisticated than an independent rear suspension, Nissan engineers claim the torsion beam gives the rear end enough stiffness without creating a harsh ride.

Driving Impressions

The engine starts (via an optional keyless ignition system in the SE-R) and runs with remarkable smoothness—especially compared with the thrashy mill in the previous-generation SE-R. That smoothness continues all the way up to the 7000-rpm redline in the Spec V, and a soft rev limiter lets the engine sit exactly at the redline. The exhaust note is noticeable but not at all loud—most owners will probably look for an aftermarket exhaust. In manual mode, the SE-R effects gearshifts at its lower redline, whether the driver likes it or not. Nissan is optimistic about the CVT—the company sees the SE-R model as an alternative for customers who live in high-traffic areas where shifting is a pain. The manual mode is meant to endow the automatic with some semblance of sportiness, and indeed it switches among the six preset ratios quickly and with almost zero delay. But unlike conventional automatics with a manumatic mode or dual-clutch manuals, the CVT keeps engine revs relatively constant, so ultimately, you'll get better engine response by leaving the transmission in automatic mode. The short-throw six-speed in the Spec V is an improvement over the rubbery shift lever in the standard Sentra.

On the road, the Spec V accelerates with gusto, and the SE-R is similarly quick but feels as if it were lacking more than the deficit of eight pound-feet of torque to the Spec V. The Spec V engine works best above 4000 rpm, close to its 5200-rpm torque peak, and although it's not nearly as asthmatic at low revs as is the Honda Civic Si, the Nissan engine lacks low-end punch. Neither SE-R feels as fast as more powerful competitors—or even the 200-hp turbocharged Volkswagen GTI. The upside is that the Spec V is usually rolling by the time significant torque kicks in, so torque steer is kept to a minimum. That alone makes this SE-R better than its predecessor, but the new car has more to offer than that, such as excellent balance. As you enter a corner, the front end grips nicely and resists transitioning into understeer. Lift off the throttle or jab the brakes, and the back end will step out slightly—not a scary amount, but enough that the car can be positioned with the throttle. And speaking of the brakes, the bite is substantial and we noticed no fade. Unfortunately, the steering, which is boosted electrically, is not quite as solid as the rest of the car. There's a good feel for what's going on with the car itself, but road feel—what's going on beneath the tires—is somewhat isolated.

The Verdict

The Sentra SE-R and SE-R Spec V aren't quite as lively as the outgoing Mini Cooper S, but they hold their own compared with four-door sporty compacts. The SE-R Spec V edges the Honda Civic Si on turn-in, power, ride comfort, and overall livability. If the Sentra isn't quite as refined as the Volkswagen GTI, it isn't as expensive, either. Sure, the SE-R, even in Spec V trim, isn't as extreme as the 263-hp Mazdaspeed 3, but the SE-R can still cover miles of curving back roads at high speeds and put a smile on the driver's face. As a bargain pocket rocket, the new SE-R fits the mold cast by the original, even though its shape is now larger and rather ungainly.