2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R

After a few days with the SE-R, Voehringer felt lukewarm on the exterior design. "The new slab-sided, snub-nosed styling speaks more to the econobox aesthetic than to the fun and sporty or the good-looking and hip."

He was favorable, if skeptical, of the SE-R's sporty intentions. "Previous SE-Rs were a handful to drive-aggressive tip-in, too much torque steer, squealing tires -- but this is a purring kitten. While not notably sporty, it can still be spirited, and the smoothness of the ride on well-manicured roads is impressive." And on rough roads? "Hit a bump or expansion joint, however, and the dream is shattered. Oy, like a roller coaster it sounds-bang, bump, thud!"