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Nissan For 1997 |
By Carey Russ |
After the introduction of the Altima and Quest, and new versions of the Maxima, 240SX, Sentra, 200SX, and Pathfinder in the last few years, 1997 is a time for reflection at Nissan. Refinements to the Maxima and 240SX are the highlights.
Maxima
The mid-sized Maxima gets a minor facelift this year, with a new grille, headlights, and restyled bumper in front, and restyled rear deck and taillights. The Maxima line includes the high-value GXE, sporty SE, and luxury LE, giving it a wide appeal. The lightweight, compact, powerful, and economical 3.0-liter V6 engine drives the front wheels through a choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions.
240SX
With the demise of the 300ZX, the 240SX is the sports car of the Nissan line. It gets a freshened exterior with crisper styling, and some interior enhancements. The front-engine, rear-wheel drive coupe is offered in standard, sporty SE, and luxury-oriented LE trim. Power is from a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, with a choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions.
Altima
Styled by Nissan Design International in Southern California, and built in Smyrna, Tennessee, the roomy Altima has some minor revisions to option packages for 1997.
Sentra
The current Sentra was introduced in 1995. It continues with few changes this year.
200SX
The 200SX is Nissan's "affordable sports car." It is the coupe sibling to the Sentra. The 200SX receives a standard rear spoiler for 1997.
Pathfinder
The newest version of Nissan's compact sport-utility made its debut last February, so there are only minor option revisions. It is available in a variety of 2- and 4-wheel drive models. All are powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine.
Truck
The Nissan line of compact pickup trucks, assembled in Smyrna, Tennessee, continues with minor option changes. Several trim levels are offered in 2- and 4-wheel drive, regular and extended-cab form. All have a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine.
Quest
The Quest minivan was freshened last year. This year it has minor alterations to the option list. Two trim levels are sold, with a 3.0-liter V6 providing power.
