1999 Nissan Sentra SE Road Test

This year the unprepossessing Sentra gets a sporty version, the SE. Designed to replace the 200 SX, the new arrival inherits the latter’s 2.0-litre engine. Other distinguishing features include a sport suspension and 15-inch tires.
Cabin and trunk
A subcompact of modest dimensions, the SE nevertheless offers relatively good accessibility. In front, the sport seats are comfortable though the seat bottom may be inclined too far back for some people. The high back rest provides good shoulder support for most, but a protrusion in the lumbar area of the back rest may prove uncomfortable for others. Finally, while some drivers have difficulty finding a suitable driving position, others feel right at home.
The rear bench seats two adults comfortably, with adequate head and leg room for tall individuals. The roomy trunk has a low liftover and a relatively wide opening. The 60/40 split seat folds to provide more room for long objects.
Comfort and convenience
The cabin is well finished but unpretentious, and there are lots of roomy storage spaces. The upper rear seat belt anchors, though less elaborate than in front, offer some degree of height adjustment at the outboard positions. The turn-signal lever is annoying in that unless you’re making practically a 90O turn, you have to switch the lever back manually.
Most controls are easy to reach and use. The radio buttons are placed under the climate controls, even though the radio is tuned more often, obliging the driver to take his eyes off the road more than he should.
Nissan has done a very good job of noise-proofing the SE, especially in comparison to the old 200 SX. Engine noise is still prevalent at high rpm’s which many drivers find perfectly normal in a sports sedan.
Safety features include dual front air bags and bright headlamps. The head restraints can be adjusted and locked but cannot be raised high enough to adequately protect tall people. No Nissan products have a MIST position for the windshield wipers.

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