1997 Nissan Sentra Press Kit

The 1997 Nissan Sentra offers consumers an affordable, fuel efficient compact vehicle, without sacrificing style, quality or comfort. Built as a compact car by class, the unique qualities of Sentra -- roomy interior, smooth ride and responsive handling -- make it operate and feel more like a mid-size sedan.

Sentra maintains its strong appeal to small car buyers by offering many unique features not typically found in a compact car. Jointly developed by designers and engineers in the U.S. and Japan, Sentra offers an expansive 97.9 cu. ft. of interior space, providing a comfortable space for both driver and passengers.

Engine/Suspension/Body Structure
In an effort to offer more usable interior volume, Nissan utilizes their innovative rear Multi-Link Beam™ suspension which allows for compact suspension packaging, leaving more room for rear seat passengers and a larger trunk. Additionally, this advanced suspension provides better handling and reduced road noise, ultimately improving the driving experience.

By eBy employing a stiffer body, reducing the number of rear suspension mounting points and using a larger muffler, Nissan has resourcefully minimized interior noise and vibration.

Sentra's powerplant is equally impressive with a 1.6-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine, delivering 115 horsepower and excellent low-end torque. This responsive engine, coupled with Sentra's independent strut front suspension system with stabilizer bar, allows for precise and controlled handling in a variety of driving situations.

This powerplant enables Sentra to achieve outstanding fuel economy while meeting California's stringent Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standard. Sentra's efficient engine delivers an EPA estimate of 30/40 mpg Highway/City with the standard 5-speed manual transmission and 28/37 mpg Highway/City with the optional 4-speed automatic transmission.

The Sentra's 1.6-liter engine utilizes the Nissan Variable Valve Timing Control System (NVTCS) to ensure optimum performance and fuel economy. Electronically controlled sensors measure throttle position and engine speed to activate the variable intake valve timing mechanism to meet demands on the engine. The NVTCS system helps Sentra's 1.6-liter engine provide better performance at lower engine speeds, without sacrificing high speed power output or fuel economy.

This combination of power and stability makes Sentra a pleasure to drive, while the spacious interior provides an inviting atmosphere for passengers.

Safety Features
The 1997 Sentra also features an extensive list of standard safety features including: dual air bags; energy-absorbing steering column; manual 3-point front seat belts with height-adjustable anchors; and steel side-door guard beams that help the Sentra meet 1997 Federal Side-Impact Safety Standards.

Standard Equipment/Optional Features and Packages
The 1997 Sentra is offered in four trim levels -- Base, XE, GXE and top-of-the-line GLE.

Nissan Sentra comes equipped with a number of thoughtful and functional features, all of which add to the excellent value of the vehicle. Adjustable front head restraints, a tilt steering column, low-fatigue reclining front seats, easy access pull-out cup holders and an easy-to-reach center console add comfort for the driver and passengers on a short local trips or longer highway travels.

Distinguishing the various Sentra models are several available comfort and convenience features, including: power windows and door locks; power sliding glass sunroof with sun shade; an advanced audio system; remote keyless entry system and vehicle security system; automatic transmission; and 4-channel/4-sensor anti-lock braking system (ABS).

The value-oriented XE model offers standard power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, rear stabilizer bar, AM/FM/cassette with digital clock and four speakers and CFC-free air conditioning. The XE model, along with GXE and GLE models, are offered with an electronically controlled 4 -speed automatic overdrive transmission.

The popular GXE model extends the list of standard features by adding lower body side sill extensions, dual power remote outside mirrors, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, deluxe door trim with cloth insert, cruise control and power windows and door locks.

The deluxe GLE model is equipped with 14-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, velour seat cloth, lower body side sill extensions, tachometer, remote keyless entry and vehicle security system.

Design/Exterior Styling
With a sleek and aerodynamic exterior design, Sentra's styling is eye-catching and unexpectedly elegant for a sub-compact car. The high rear decklid, low hood line and steeply raked windshield not only complement each other aesthetically, but also provide for a low 0.33 coefficient of drag (Cd).

The 1997 Sentra is available in eight exterior colors, Ruby Pearl, Silver Mint, Starfire Blue Pearl, Vivid Teal, Super Black, Platinum Gold, Cloud White and the new Anthracite Gray. Coordinating interior colors include Gray and Brown.

Warranty
All 1997 Nissan models are covered by a comprehensive 3-year/36,000-mile "bumper-to-bumper" Limited Warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty, a 5-year/60-000-mile Corrosion Coverage and a Lifetime Seat Belt Warranty