A Rocket for Pocket Change!
By Steven D. Gatt, Automotive Editor
The 200SX SE-R is a fun little car, competing in a market full of choices like the Ford Escort GT, Dodge Neon Sport Coupe or Chevy Caviler Z24. The 200SX SE-R is the sport coupe version of Nissan's popular Sentra economy car. For the coupe version Nissan did away with the single overhead cam engine and installed a 2.0L, 140 hp, dual overhead cam, 4 cylinder engine. The 140hp is more than most of the competition and provides plenty of zoom and zip for this little speedster.
The feature list is quite extensive on the 200SX SE-R. Our test car had only two options' anti-lock brakes, and a power sunroof, everything else listed here is standard equipment on the 200SX SE-R. Starting with the interior, some of the equipment includes: air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, tachometer, tilt steering, and dual airbags. On the outside of the 200SX SE-R there were many features, such as: fog lights, intermittent wipers, keyless entry, 15 inch alloy wheels, and a distinctive rear spoiler.
Base price for a 200SX SE-R is $16,069 add in: ABS, sunroof and destination for a total of $17,922, pocket change for a pocket rocket. Mileage ratings for the little sprite were 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. During our week of all out hard driving we obtained 26 mpg, low but due many to our driving style.
Two years ago Nissan redesigned this car, unfortunately to make it appeal to more consumers they toned down the design and suspension. The exterior went from a boxy design to a smooth one making it bland right along with all of its' competition. The suspension is much softer now, not allowing us to push the limits as we once could. The 200SX SE-R is still a nice sporty coupe, and one of the best in the market segment, but it's missing that passion for driving.