The Sentra did an admirable job in the 80s of maintaining its position as sales leader in the Nissan lineup since it took over the enviable mantle from the venerable 210 series back in mid-1982. The nameplate accounted for almost one of every three corporate sales in the U.S. and for roughly 12% of the entire small sedan sales in this country.
The biggest-selling import model in America, the Sentra was completely repackaged for 1987. As part of this program, Nissan imparted a more contemporary look to the line, hoping to keep the Sentra in its commanding No 1. spot while appealing to an even broader and more upscale section of the market. While the entire lineup was given a higher visual profile as part of the 1987 changeover, the undeniable star of the show was the hatchback Coupe, offered in XE and top-of-the-line SE models. Although Sentra production was currently split between Japan and the company’s (then) new plant in Smyrna, Tennessee, all Coupe models were continued to be imported.
When Nissan debuted the 1987 Sentra in mid-1986, the firm anticipated its striking new fastback Coupe would account for about 12% of total Sentra sales. However, initial demand ran well ahead of projections. By late 1986, one of every five Sentras sold was a Coupe, with the more costly SE taking about 60% of that number.
The SE Coupe came fully equipped with a long list of comfort/convenience standards including in its $9899 base price. With options, and a five-figure price tag, it seemed people were willing to pay a little more for what they perceived as a good value. Supply limitations on the fuel-injection package ensured that the new Coupe had no chance of even coming close to threatening the basic sedan model as sales leader of the Sentra line. But judging from initial market response, Nissan most definitely struck a responsive chord with buyers.
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