The popular fifth-generation Sentra sedan, introduced in 2001, gets further styling tweaks and added convenience features to keep it competitive in the econocar/ pocket-rocket segment. For 2004, the Sentra receives redesigned front and rear fascias and a newly styled hood. Interior upgrades on the 2.5S, SE-R, and SE-R Spec V include an enhanced Rockford Fosgate sound system and a trip computer as standard equipment, while the SE-R Spec V gets Skyline-style sport bucket seats. Power choices remain a fuel-thrifty 126-hp, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine in the 1.8 and 1.8S models and, for a good deal more oomph, a 165-hp, 2.5-liter four-banger in the 2.5S and SE-R. But for a wilder ride we recommend the more powerful and responsive 175-hp, 2.5-liter version in the wicked little SE-R Spec V, which also gets a new brake package with quicker-stopping Brembo front discs.
The 350Z gets some minor upgrades and a boost to 300 horsepower for six-speed-manual models. Nissan is taking a breather after launching new versions in 2005 of the Pathfinder, Frontier, and Xterra. The Titan and the Armada have new power-folding mirrors, the Xterra adds an entry-level X model, the Murano sports new wheels and a restyled grille, and the Quest adds a 3.5 Special Edition trim package.
Unchanged: Maxima, Altima, Sentra, Frontier, Pathfinder, Xterra.
Future: Nissan may launch one or two subcompacts based on the Cube, which is sold in Japan. All-new Altima and Sentra are due within a year.
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Download pdf Nissan Sentra 1.8S (Manual) Complete Report
