The last major upgrade was about nine(yes, nine!) years. Until its release, what we get is a Taiwan-speced Nissan Sentra unattractive enough that even some big taxi operators ignored it. The new Nissan Sentra 200 is a US-speced Nissan. But is good enough to attract Toyota and Honda patrons?
The new Sentra actually looks conservative, dominated by edgy exterior and standard 16-inch wheels. Two variants are released: a manual and a CVT both fitted for a 2.0 liter gasoline that can power at a maximum 140hp@5100 rpm.
Ride is dictated by and Independent, MacPherson Strut suspension and Rigid Axle, Torsion Beam on the rear.
Inside, be greeted by a dashboard covered in Urethane and Fabric seats. Amenities include Steering (electric), door locks, windows and mirrors (with fold,Stereo/CD/MP3/Aux/iPod with 6 speakers.
Safety features include Keyless entry with alarm and immobilizer2 airbags, and an optional ABS with Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist(EB) for the CVT.
The new Sentra 200 is priced at P 1,050,000 for the 6-speed manual and P 1,150,000 for the XTRONIC CVT.
Editor's note:Among the Japanese car makers, Nissan has actually been struggling to get a niche in every segment. When Innova literally ruled the MPV segment, the launch of Nissan Livina's and its better features and pricing didn't give Toyota goosebumps. City and Vios actually ruled every man's garage, and Mitsubishi still made a lot of bucks from its decade-old trucks.
