When Nissan ->ke62 unveiled the new Juke Nismo , it also announced that it was simply the tip of the iceberg for the new Nismo family. We have already seen the GT-R Nismo that followed it, and now a new Sentra->ke557 Nismo Concept. This concept is on display next to the GT-R Nismo at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show->ke211, and we have big hopes to see it put into production.

The concept features the usual Nismo elements, like the more powerful engine, the aerodynamic kit, tuned suspensions and a high performance braking system, red accents all over and, of course, a sporty interior.

The Sentra Nismo Concept rocks a Bright Pearl White exterior paint combined with a carbon fiber pattern on numerous exterior elements and the staple Nismo red line on the front spoiler lip, the side skirts, the rear spoiler and the exterior mirrors.

Click past the jump to read more about the Nissan Sentra NISMO Concept.

2013 Nissan Sentra NISMO Concept

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Nissan Sentra NISMO Concept
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 240
  • Torque: 248
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

Just like with pretty much every other Nismo vehicle, the new Sentra Concept features a cool aerodynamic kit that includes a deep front fascia with lower LED lights, a wide lower front spoiler and wide lower grille. The side feature over-sized fender flares and integrated side sills. On the rear the concept gets a deep-skirted rear fascia accentuated by large dual exhaust tips. The aerodynamic features are further enhanced by a rear spoiler inspired by the one found in the 370Z.

The concept feature a paint scheme similar to the GT-R Nismo, as the body is painted Bright Pearl White and includes a carbon-fiber diagonal pattern found on the side-view mirror caps, a front splitter and a rear diffuser. Red accents on the front spoiler, side mirrors and side sills, and the "O" on the "Nismo" badges let drivers know that this isn't your typical Sentra.

Interior

The interior also receives a hefty dose of Nismo, as it features Recaro "Sportster" front seats wrapped in a nice combination of black leather and Alcantara, while the rear seats get perforated black Alcantara.

The steering wheel also gets a Nismo-inspired look, and comes wrapped in black leather with a red-leather centering strip. Nismo added in a carbon-fiber finish on the instrument cluster, and included the signature Nismo anodized red rings around the start button and tachometer.

Unfortunately, Nissan has yet to reveal images of the cabin.

Drivetrain

Under the hood is where this Nismo Concept really makes its mark, as it is the most revolutionary Sentra powerplant since the SR20DE mid-1990s SE-R model. This is where Nismo installed the same engine found in the Juke Nismo RS: a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This four-banger throws down a monstrous 240 horsepower and more than 240 pound-feet of torque through a six-speed manual transmission.

Nissan didn't get into performance specs, but we think its safe to say the Sentra Nismo Concept would cross 60 mph in around six seconds.

Suspension and Brakes

Like most other Nismo models, there are plenty of changes to the suspension and braking systems. The Sentra Nismo Concept rides on a set of 19-inch RAYS aluminum-alloy wheels wrapped nicely in 225/35R19 Michelin Super Sport performance rubber.

That sticky rubber stays on the track, thanks to a NISMO-tuned suspension system, while a high-performance braking system Brembo calipers donated by the 370Z keeps the 240 ponies in check.

When can I drive one?

Well, the vehicle displayed in Los Angeles is just a concept, but we have long wondered when Nissan would release an new hotter version of the Sentra. The last one we saw was the SE-R variant -- basically a Sentra with an Altima engine -- that was put out of production following the 2012 model year. Here's to hoping this is eventually going to spawn a production model.

Competitors

Honda Civic SI

Unless Honda decides to finally bring the new Civic Type R to the U.S. market, a production version of the Sentra Nismo would have to take on models like the Civic SI.

Of course it won't be very difficult for it to do it, because it looks better, and we are pretty sure it will also drive better. The Civic SI is powered by a a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces just of 201 horsepower -- about 40 horsepower less than the Sentra Nismo.

Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

A more appropriate competitor for the Sentra Nismo would be the Mitsubishi Lancer, in its Ralliart garb, of course. This model is powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a total of 237 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 253 pound-feet of torque between 2,500 and 4,750 rpm.

Of course, when it comes to sheer sexiness, the Sentra Nismo has a leg up, but in terms of pure performance, the two are nearly identical. Will they behave the same on the road?

Conclusion

When Nissan axed the first Sentra SE-R, Nissan lovers everywhere wept, but the automaker somewhat redeemed itself seven years later with a new SE-R and an even hotter SE-R Spec-V. With this concept, we are all champing at the bit to push Nissan to produce this model, which actually looks pretty close to production-ready. Needless to say, we are just a little bit intrigued by this almost overlooked addition to Nissan's LA Auto Show display.