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Nissan Sentra: ‘Tribdino’ version

AUTOBAM

By Bam Santiago Olivares

12/16/2008

Nissan Motor Phils. Inc. (NMPI) Senior Manager Raymond Tribdino decided one weekend to share his 2008 Nissan Sentra 1.6 GSX M/T for a test run. Although I was hesitant at first (he was lending the car that he personally used), I decided to take this rare opportunity and at the same time check out this after-market vehicle fitted with accessories and “extras” suited to the user’s style and preference. The first thing I did was adjust the driver’s seat to fit myself. I immediately noticed the OEM leather Momo steering wheel equipped with an airbag, which also happened to match the leather seats.

The mirrorized tint took me some time to getting used to it — initially, whenever I looked towards the right window, I would momentarily get startled in seeing a person beside me only to realize it was just a reflection of my self. The original shift knob was replaced by an aluminum type which seemed to absorb the temperature inside the vehicle (when the vehicle was parked under the heat of the sun, the shift knob would be bitingly hot). When the calsonic climate control air-conditioning was switched on, the knob cooled quickly as well. The music from the JVC CD in dash sound system was pleasant to the ears, even if the subwoofer in the trunk was not connected yet. The exterior additions to this 2008 Nissan Sentra 1.6GLX included 17-inch rays mag wheels with 225 4517 tires. The Nismo suspension gave the vehicle great handling and eliminated body roll. The power steering installed adjusted to the rpm of the Sentra. The higher the rpm the heavier the steering becomes, which is very much appreciated on tight quick turns. I felt secure while executing turns and I found the vehicle’s maneuverability to be stable. Under the hood, additions included a Nismo radiator cap, oil filler cap, strut bar, fuel injectors, air element and a Nismo gas cap cover. Revving the 2008 Nissan Sentra 1.6 GLX at high rpm produced a fantastic sound due to the combined sounds of the QGIGDE 4 in-line DOHC 16 valve VTC engine and the fitted Tanabe Medallion exhaust system.

The improvements on Raymond Tribdino’s Sentra really made a difference to the car’s looks, sound and performance. Thanks again NMPI and Raymond — “Shift_the future!”