Peter Palmer: 2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo: Pricing & Performance Overview

The Nissan Sentra is one of the automaker’s top sellers. Only the Altima and Rogue log more sales in a given year. The Sentra nameplate spans more the three decades across seven generations, but for 2017, the naturally aspirated Sentra receives a suitable companion in the new SR Turbo.

Pricing for both models was recently announced.

Turbo Charged

The SR Turbo takes its inspiration from the Sentra SR, with its more sporty flare. While the Sentra SR accounts for over 15 percent of total Sentra sales, the forthcoming SR turbo has significantly more horsepower. A new 1.6L Direct Injection Gasoline (DIGÔ) turbocharged engine powers the 2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo. The engine is rated at 188 horsepower (5,600 rpm) and 177 lb-ft. of torque (1,600 – 5,200 rpm).

This equates to 64 more horsepower and 52 more lb-ft. of torque than a non-turbo Sentra SR.

Transmission

The 2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo is available with a six-speed manual. Nissan’s Xtronic transmission with manual mode, unique to the SR Turbo, is optional. Developed specifically for the SR Turbo, the gear ratios make full use of the 1.6L turbo engine’s torque curve.

Photo: Nissan North America, Inc.

Ride & Handling

The 2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo features a modified suspension to handle the additional performance demands of the engine. The steering and braking systems were refined to match the on-road characteristics of the car. Driving dynamics were further improved with increased window glass thickness for road noise reduction.

Safety & Security

Nissan’s Safety Shield Technologies including Forward Emergency Braking, Intelligent Cruise Control, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are available. Siri Eyes Free, Bose audio, and NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps further enhance connectivity and infotainment.

Pricing & Availability

The base Senta S, with a 1.8L and six-speed manual, starts at $16,990 (USD). By comparison, the top end Sentra SR Turbo, with the 1.6L and Xtronic transmission, starts at $21,990. Incidentally, this is the same MSRP for the six-speed manual in the Sentra SR Turbo. Naturally aspirated Sentras are already on Nissan lots nationwide, while the SR Turbo arrives next month.

Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and resides in Detroit, Michigan