Nissan is set to introduce a concept vehicle that pays homage to the now-discontinued Sentra SE-R by incorporating performance upgrades from the automaker’s Nismo division. This vehicle will be showcased at the 2023 SEMA show, taking place from October 31 to November 3 in Las Vegas.
Dubbed the Sentra DET, the concept derives its inspiration from the Canadian Sentra Cup spec-racing series and is set to include a U.S. round in 2024. The car aims to perpetuate the legacy of the SE-R, a performance-oriented model that was a part of the Sentra lineup during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Overview of Nissan Sentra DET
The term “DET” serves as a nostalgic reference, standing for “Dual overhead cam, Electronic fuel injection, Turbo.” This nomenclature has been previously used for engines in Nissan’s sportier vehicles, including the Silvia/180SX, Pulsar GTI-R, Skyline, and Stagea.
Features of the Nissan Sentra DET Concept
The Sentra DET comes equipped with a turbocharged iteration of the MR20DD 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that powers the standard Sentra. While Nissan has not released specific output figures, it has detailed several modifications such as new rods and pistons, a reduced compression ratio of 10.5:1 (in contrast to the original 11.5:1), Sentra Cup car firmware, and a prototype Nismo cat-back exhaust system.
The engine’s power is channeled to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission, complemented by a limited-slip differential. The brake calipers and rotors are sourced from the Nissan Z model, and the suspension has been fortified with a prototype Nismo sway bar kit and coilovers. Race driver Bryan Heitkotter provided tuning input for the vehicle, which rides on 18-inch wheels shod with Yokohama Advan Neova AD09 tires.
Cosmetically, the exterior retains most of its stock appearance, distinguished only by new graphics and carbon-fiber mirror caps. The interior is upgraded with Recaro Sportster CS front seats and a Nismo urethane shift knob.
Additional Nissan Concepts at SEMA
Nissan plans to display two other concept vehicles at the SEMA show, both of which emphasize off-road capabilities. The Project Rugged Rogue will feature a 3.0-inch lift kit and mud-terrain tires, heralding Nissan’s upcoming 2024 refresh for this compact crossover that will incorporate Google built-in features.
Nissan is also partnering with Forsberg Racing to showcase a Frontier off-road concept, intended to compete in the NORRA 500 in Mexico prior to its Las Vegas debut. This collaboration continues Nissan’s longstanding relationship with Forsberg Racing, which has participated in previous SEMA projects, including the creation of an Altima drift car.