Nissan is set to showcase its latest concept car, the Sentra DET, at the highly anticipated 2023 SEMA show in Las Vegas. The concept car draws inspiration from the defunct Sentra SE-R and incorporates racing-inspired performance modifications from Nissan’s Nismo division.
The Sentra DET concept takes cues from the Sentra Cup spec-racing series, which is currently run in Canada and will expand to include a round in the United States in 2024. By enhancing the performance of the Sentra, Nissan aims to capture the spirit of the beloved SE-R model that was an integral part of the compact car’s lineup in the 1990s and early 2000s.
The name “DET” itself is a retro callback, symbolizing “Dual overhead cam, Electronic fuel injection, Turbo.” This nomenclature pays homage to the engines used in past sporty Nissans such as the Silvia/180SX, Pulsar GTI-R, Skyline, and Stagea.
Under the hood, the Sentra DET boasts a turbocharged version of the MR20DD 2.0-liter inline-4 engine found in the standard Sentra. While Nissan has not released specific horsepower numbers, they have mentioned several upgrades including new rods and pistons, a slightly lower compression ratio of 10.5:1 (compared to the stock 11.5:1), Sentra Cup car firmware, and a prototype Nismo cat-back exhaust system.
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Power is transmitted to the front wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. The braking system features calipers and rotors sourced from the Nissan Z, while the suspension is enhanced with a prototype Nismo sway bar kit and coilovers. Renowned race driver Bryan Heitkotter contributed to the tuning of these modifications. The Sentra DET rides on 18-inch wheels fitted with Yokohama Advan Neova AD09 tires.
In terms of design, the exterior of the Sentra DET concept remains mostly unchanged, except for the addition of new graphics and carbon-fiber mirror caps. Inside the cabin, Nissan has installed Recaro Sportster CS front seats and a Nismo urethane shift knob, further enhancing the sporty and performance-focused feel of the concept.
While the Sentra DET is undoubtedly the star of Nissan’s SEMA showcase, the automaker will also bring two other concept vehicles with a focus on off-road performance. The Project Rugged Rogue adds a 3.0-inch lift kit and mud-terrain tires to Nissan’s compact crossover, which will undergo a refresh for the 2024 model year. This update will include the integration of Google built-in features, marking Nissan’s adoption of advanced technology.
Additionally, Nissan will present a Frontier off-road concept that will first partake in the NORRA 500 race in Mexico before making its appearance at the SEMA show. The truck has been developed in collaboration with Forsberg Racing, a partner that has previously worked with Nissan on SEMA builds, including an Altima drift car.
The 2023 SEMA show promises to be an exciting event for automotive enthusiasts, with Nissan’s Sentra DET concept leading the charge. Paying homage to the iconic Sentra SE-R and incorporating performance enhancements from Nismo, this concept car is sure to captivate the industry and showcase Nissan’s commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing its racing heritage.
