Nissan is introducing the Sentra FE+ 2.0 SR for the benefit of rally enthusiasts strapped with an economy car budget. The FE+ 2.0 SR looks like an uplevel Sentra SE-R and may well be mistaken for the ultra-high-performance Spec V, but it’s priced like an entry-level model.
The new Sentra FE+ 2.0 SR definitely sporty with SE-R-style front and rear fascias, grille, headlights, side sills, rear spoiler and 16-inch aluminum wheels.
"With so much attention being paid to high value, high mileage vehicles like Sentra today, we want to offer customers a range of choices within the lineup – so they can find the perfect level of equipment, sportiness and performance to fit their needs and budgets," said Al Castignetti, Vice President and General Manager, Nissan Division, North America.
There are seven models in the 2009 Sentra lineup, starting with the FE+ 2.0 and going all the way to the Sentra SE-R Spec V. The MSRP for the base Sentra FE+ 2.0 is $16,730.
The engine for these models is a 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder that develops 140 hp and 147 lb/ft of torque. The FE+ 2.0 S with the Xtronic CVT transmission gets an impressive fuel economy estimated at 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway
The 2009 Nissan Sentra offers great value with an impressive array of high-end features and passenger comforts. With its strong safety record, excellent reliability, and efficient fuel economy, the Sentra makes the perfect commuter car and a good all-around family car.
The Sentra feels roomier than its competitors do with one reviewer calling it “a compact car that doesn't feel compact.” Sentra comes with a nice set of standard equipment even in its less-expensive trims. The economical base FE+ 2.0 Sentra offers power locks and windows, a four-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, suede cloth seat trim and a tachometer. The best bang for your buck comes with the 2.0 S, which adds power outside mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry, a trip computer and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system. The luxury-like FE+ 2.0 SL upgrades to leather upholstery and trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, XM Satellite Radio with three months of free service and Bluetooth hands-free phone system. Many of the SL's features can be added to the lower trims. The base 2.0 is equipped with 15-inch wheels while the S and SL trims ride on 16-inch wheels.
Rear seats split 60/40 and fold flat in all trims but the Spec V, which replaces the folding seats with a reinforcement brace. The trunk holds a spacious 13.1 cubic feet of cargo and can be outfitted with an optional partition that organizes your stuff and creates a few hidden compartments for security. Supplemental storage can be found inside the cabin with the expected door pockets, a large glovebox and oversize cupholders to accommodate larger bottles. A fold-down rear armrest also features cupholders. The optional CD holder under the driver's sun visor is very handy.
The SE-R and Spec V are equipped like an SL with remote start and the wheel-mounted audio controls optional instead of standard. Sporty touches include special badging, sport seats and aluminum pedals. SE-R and Spec V trims can be upgraded with an exclusive high-end Rockford Fosgate sound system and an optional sunroof.
The '09 Sentra has excellent safety credentials, earning five stars from the NHTSA for front and front-side impacts and a strong four stars for rear side-impacts and rollovers. All-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brakeforce distribution are standard on all but the base model. There are dual-stage front airbags, dual front-seat-mounted side-impact airbags, roof-mounted side-curtain airbags for both rows, seatbelt pretensioners and active front head restraints. A tire monitor comes standard on all trims as do daytime running lights.
The new Sentra FE+ 2.0 SR is an affordable way to enjoy the sportier styling of high-end models without the added cost. However, all 2009 Nissan Sentras are big on value with high quality equipment, fit and finish. The Nissan Sentra remains one of the easiest cars to live with—just ask any Sentra owner!
