Nissan Sentra 2.0 SR
At the Crossroads of Practicality and
Smooth
By: Giulianna D. Levin
Over
500 years ago, a sketch
by Leonardo Da Vinci conceptualized the CVT (Continuous
Variable Transmission). Today, the CVT has found its way into the
automotive hearts of such manufacturers as General Motors, Audi, and
Nissan. There are some drivers out there that do not and will not enjoy
the CVT; however this writer does. The pulley system employed by the
Nissan Sentra 2.0 SR allows for a quiet ride leaving behind the subtle
progressions of a traditional planetary gear system.
Consumers will include the Nissan
Sentra 2.0 SR among their pool of choices along with the Toyota Corolla,
Mazda 3, and perhaps even the Civic. After test driving the SR, I feel
that anyone looking for a commuter car would be well pleased with this
Nissan. The Sentra 2.0 SR has a 2.0 Liter DOHC 4-Cylinder engine that
generates 140 HP and 147 Lb-Ft of torque and provides excellent gas mileage at an estimated
26 city mpg and 34 highway mpg. The keyless start is always a plus and
though it may seem insignificant to some, I found that the controls are
well positioned in the car. The Sentra is simply spacious. There are
several opportunities for storage whether in the roomy center console or
the cavernous trunk. The Sentra also sports ample head and leg room.
Having been the victim of many long car trips I can say that the
comfortable interior of the car would be appreciated by many.
The driving experience is honestly
what allowed me to enjoy this vehicle. ItⳠhow the car responded to my
manipulation of the steering wheel. I felt the weight of the car behind
me and that I was in total control of 2,900 pounds of metal machinery.
The in-cabin microfilter helps to
reduce allergens and the 6-Speaker audio system includes an interface
system for iPod. While the speed-sensitive audio volume can prove to be
a gem in a noisy car牠found it mildly bothersome in the generally quiet
Sentra. Optional add-ons include the Bluetooth Handsfree Phone System
and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Base price for the Nissan Sentra
2.0SR is $17,160. The SR has 16䠡lloy wheels and rear spoiler with
integrated LED brake light. NissanⳠadvanced air bag system, driver and
front-passenger seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags, and
roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags come standard on
all Sentra models.
At the end of the day, the Nissan
Sentra is a practical car. It cannot be expected to perform like a
sports car because itⳠnot a sports car.
But is it fun to drive?
Yes!
