Nissan Sentra

It's funny how design looks like a passing memory over at Nissan: one moment they go all curvy and sensual (Murano, 350Z) and the next moment they go wedgy.  Already being sold in the US and Japan, the all-new Nissan Sentra looks like a previous generation Renault Megane.  Criticism about its rather odd tallboy shape aside, a new Nissan is always welcome news here especially with the company's rather aging local line-up.

Unfortunately, even if it's not yet launched here, it's already starting to look rather dated--and we're not just talking about the shape here.  Underneath the angular profile is Nissan's traditional MacPherson Strut/Torsion Beam Axle set-up.  Upfront is an all-new MR20DE engine.  This 2.0-liter engine (standard in the US) is good for just around 140 horsepower.  Torque is impressive though at 199 Nm.  A 6-speed MT is standard, but CVT is an available option.

Inside, practicality reigns supreme with a no nonsense dash, solid plastics and decent spec trims.  There are no fancy radios (except if you tick the Rockford Fosgate audio package in the options list) or electronic this or push button that as Nissan hopes to sell it based on a very affordable price tag.  That said, for those who want more fire to their loins, Nissan is also selling an SE-R version in the US with a 177 horsepower (200 for the Spec V) 2.5-liter engine.

Toyota Corolla

The king has been dethroned, but maybe not for long.  The 10th generation Toyota Corolla has already made its way to European and Japanese showrooms.  Distinguishing the hatchback model and the sedan, the former's called "Auris", while the latter retains the "Corolla" moniker (Altis here?)

Riding on an all-new platform, the Corolla continues on with a MacPheron Strut/Torsion Beam Axle set-up like the Nissan Sentra.  The carefully worded press release neglects to mention spirited handling, but instead concentrates on the Corolla's improved NVH levels and exceptional highway comfort.  The exterior design looks fairly derivative of the previous Corolla but incorporates new European pedestrian collision regulations.

Underneath the bonnet is an all-new dual VVTi 1.6-liter petrol engine with a 124 horsepower and 157 Nm output.  Though the power figures are modest at best, Toyota claims that this all-new engine provides class-leading fuel consumption figures.  According to Toyota, the Corolla will do around 14.49 km/L on a combined European cycle.  Top speed is 195 km/h with a 0-100 km/h time of a not-so-slow 10.4 seconds.  For Europe, a new D-4D 125 engine is made available.  As the world's first all-new aluminum diesel, the D-4D 125 out accelerates the petrol in both 0-100 km/h and top speed (10.3, 200 km/h respectively).  An 18.86 km/L on the European combined cycle is promised.  The petrol engine is available with either a 5-speed MT or a CVT with steering wheel paddle shifters while the D-4D 125 is only available with a 6-speed MT.

Inside, Toyota continues on with a very traditional approach for the all-new Corolla by employing nothing extravagant.  However, interior build quality is up and the material choices, according to Toyota, are a class above.  The new gauges are of particular interest, mimicking the RAV4's chrono-style display.  Some Camry level features make their way down market such as a keyless engine start/stop function, rain-sensors for the wipers, auto dimming rear view mirror and a multi-information display.

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