(January 14, 2014) DETROIT — As Nissan expands its NISMO line of factory performance models, it is revisiting the small car performance genre and teasing the future with the dramatic Nissan Sentra NISMO Concept. The Sentra Concept injects increased performance and design tuner elements into the mix.

Among the Sentra NISMO Concept's many departures from a production 2014 Sentra are its race-inspired exterior with enhanced aerodynamic performance, NISMO-tuned suspension, steering and transmission and engaging motorsports-style cockpit.

And under the hood, the concept adapts a 1.8-liter direct injection turbocharged engine producing more than 240 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.

"Fans have asked that we bring back a high-performance Sentra straight from the factory, just like in generations past," said Nissan Vice President of Product Planning, Pierre Loing. "With NISMO, our in-house motorsports arm, already producing versions of the 370Z NISMO, JUKE NISMO, JUKE NISMO RS and upcoming GT-R NISMO, we wanted to demonstrate where we could go in the future."

The look of the Sentra NISMO Concept, like previous Nissan performance sedans, is somewhat understated — more sophisticated and confident than "in-your-face" boy racer. Exterior modifications, designed to enhance Sentra's already good aerodynamics, start with a deep front fascia with lower LED lights and wide lower grille that match the stock Sentra's standard LED daytime running rights and upper grille.

The aerodynamic look continues with a wide lower front spoiler and along the sides of the vehicle with the oversized fender flares and integrated side sills flowing into a deep-skirted rear fascia accentuated by large dual exhaust tips. A custom rear spoiler and center rear fog lamp, which echoes the design of the 370Z's rear diffuser, complete the look. All lights on the vehicle feature a smoked look.

A thin, signature NISMO red accents accentuate the areas where aerodynamics have been emphasized such as the lower spoiler, while more discreet striping is found on the side mirrors and side sills. NISMO badges — with signature matching red "O" — are located front and rear.

The body is painted in a custom Bright Pearl White with a unique reflective roof panel. The aerodynamic side door mirror covers, front splitter and rear diffuser are finished in a high-gloss, genuine carbon fiber diagonal pattern. The special Black Chrome-finished mesh grille is surrounded by Dark Chrome, adding to the Sentra NISMO Concept's imposing presence.

"The exterior treatment takes Sentra's mature, premium presence and infuses it with an added dimension of excitement and dynamic energy," said Loing. "Still easily identified as a Sentra, it evokes a strong sense of the power that lurks just below the surface."

A true performance sports sedan demands an equally engaging cockpit. The Sentra NISMO Concept interior features an array of NISMO-inspired upgrades, including Recaro "Sportster" front seats with custom black leather and Alcantara appointments. The rear seats are treated to a mix of perforated black Alcantara in a similar pattern to the front seats. Alcantara® is also used for the pillars and headliner.

The racing-inspired interior continues with a NISMO-style leather/Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel with red leather at the 12 o'clock position, along with matching shift knob and shifter lever boot surround.  The instrument cluster features a satin carbon fiber finish and all chrome accents are treated to a Dark Chrome finish.  Both the start button and tachometer include iconic NISMO anodized red rings.