2012 Nissan Sentra 2.0 SR (897)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2012 Nissan Sentra 2.0 SR. I’m always impressed with how much performance cars get in today’s world out of such small horsepower engines. That has always been a fact in European cars over the years as they routinely got 100 HP per liter while the Big Three US automakers responded to consumers demand for “muscle cars” that would burn the rubber off the tires with a lot of show with little real overall performance. But with ultra cheap gas in the US, in the 1950s and 1960s, relative to the rest of the world coupled with a vibrant hustle bustle economy there was little want in our society, so we got what we demanded.

Well the party is nearly over and we’re falling in line with the rest of the world with increasing poverty and a return to pre 1945 want just to survive. So many are demanding cost efficient transportation and the fun and games are over. Back to reality. . . and that is a good thing.

Opinion:

I’ve had some mail over the years on my editorial opinion which as readers know is all relative to the automotive industry. My opinion is based on my experience mostly and a little research to verify the facts. That experience includes heading the largest distributor of automotive brake parts, to owning an automotive repair facility in Southern California for 12 plus years, to owning newspapers in Colorado and Texas where I was also interested in the car portion of the news. And as a journalist much of that time I have followed stories and attended automaker events to learn about what’s new. I can surely relate to what is OLD, me included.

As a national platform speaker I expounded on the automotive market as I saw it and mostly I have been correct in by observations. I share my thoughts on the industry with you and I appreciate and respect you views as well. So keep those emails coming in.

Handling & Performance:

This Nissan Sentra is a welcomed return to sanity in simplicity for today with very acceptable fuel economy and the price is certainly right for a nice performing comfortable car. While many cars that have been around for a while they seek to satisfy everyone’s wants so there are Camry’s and other brands that had “Flag Ship” volume sellers that are now getting bigger in size. That gives performers like this Sentra a larger share of the market as they replace more expensive cars that do little more than this Sentra

Styling:

What’s not to like about the Sentra? It is simply a nice looking automobile reminiscent of the lines of much more expensive cars.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent.

Cost:

Really great price point. When the going gets tough the smart get going toward cost effective cars like this Sentra.

Conveniences and comfort:

Everything most of us want even if we don’t need it.

Consumer Recommendation:

This is a very competitive segment of the market as prices will tell… I’ve tested them all and although this Sentra is in the top of my list it is still a tough decision for anyone. But most important is that Toyota is no longer the king of the hill that it was 20 years ago. The world of car makers has simply found a level playing field and the winners – you guessed it – we the people because of a free competitive marketplace. Capitalism is finally catching on in other countries beside the US and Japan and Europe. The best example today of nearly over night ‘up-to-speed car makers is the newest entrant Hyundai and sister company Kia. Even the wealthy are beginning to buy them and replace the big expensive Lexus’, BMW’s and Mercedes Benz’s and Audi’s.

Recognized Competition:

Nissan Sentra $18,000, Chevrolet Cobalt $18,000, Chevrolet Cruze $17,000, Dodge Caliber $17,000, Ford Focus $17,000, Honda Civic $22,000, Honda Civic Hybrid $24,000, Hyundai Elantra $20,000, Hyundai Elantra Touring $17,000, Kia Forte $19,000, Kia Forte Koup $19,000, Mazda 3 $22,000, Mitsubishi Lancer $19,000, Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback $20,000, Subaru Impreza $19,000, Toyota Corolla $18,000, Volkswagen Golf $20,000.

Good News:

Great performer for the money, low maintenance history, comfortable commuter. Simply worth your consideration.

Bad News:

Not much to complain about, so I won’t.

Standard Equipment:

2.0 liter 140 HP 4-cylinder engine, CVT Continuously Variable Transmission, power vented front disc and rear drum ABS (Anti locking) brakes, Electronic brake force distribution, traction and vehicle dynamic controls, tire pressure monitor, 16” aluminum alloy wheels, front, side and side curtain air bags, LATCH child safety, immobilizer system with security system, air conditioning, power windows & locks, remote keyless entry, 6-speaker audio with CD & Auxiliary, interface system for iPod, steering wheel audio and cruise controls, 6-way driver adjustable seat, 60/40 rear split fold flat seat with armrest w/ cup holders, variable intermittent wipers, remote fuel filler door & trunk release, Trip computer.

Gas Stats:

$3.51/ Gal avg. December 3, 2011

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

27 City and 34 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $17,990.