Nissan Sentra adds sporty-looking FE+ 2.0 SR to Sentra lineup

Most of us at AutoWeek value speed and style, but there are people out there who are perfectly fine with just looking the part. For them, Nissan has announced the addition of the FE+ 2.0 SR to the Sentra lineup.

Previously, the only way to get a more aggressive looking Sentra from the factory was springing for SE-R models. Along with an upgraded 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, the SE-Rs add special front and rear fascia, side sills and a rear spoiler. Enticing for sure, but with a $21,355 base price, it's a healthy jump in price from a base Sentra.

Now with the new FE+ 2.0 SR--which builds upon the 2.0 S models--consumers can get their Sentra with SE-R-styled bumpers, grille, darker chrome headlight bezels and smoked taillights. In addition, the SR adds 16-inch alloy wheels to replace the steel wheels with hubcaps, and it is available in paint colors that were previously exclusive to the SE-R.

Power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 140 hp, mated to a continuously variable transmission that is tuned for improved fuel economy (hence FE+). At the moment, there are no plans to offer the SR with the six-speed manual transmission.

The FE+ 2.0 SR goes on sale April 17 with a base price of $18,455.

By Jonathan Wong