[ranisron]

From AutoTech daily newsletter (thanks to my firm, I am subscribed for free). I know there was a thread somewhere in off topic that says the Altima coupe may only be a rumor. Looks like it's FWD, too.

Mod, feel free to merge this thread with the "rumor' thread.

NISSAN READIES ALTIMA COUPE, HIGH-PERFORMANCE
SENTRA
Nissan Motor Co. will add a first-ever coupe version of its redesigned Altima sedan next
summer. The automaker unveiled the vehicle—and high-performance derivatives of its
Sentra sedan—at the Los Angeles auto show on Wednesday.
The Altima coupe shares the platform used for the redesigned 2007 sedan, but it
has a shorter wheelbase and overall length. The coupe will offer the same engine
choices: a 175-hp, 2.5-liter four-banger and a 3.5-liter VQ V-6 that makes 270 hp. The
engines can be teamed with a six-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable
transmission (CVT).
Available in March, the SE-R and SE-R Spec V high-performance variants of the
Sentra feature a 2.5-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine. Nissan says the new models have
more power, performance and technology than any
previous SE-R. In the base derivative, the engine is
rated at 177 hp and will be mated to a modified version
of the Sentra's CVT with shift paddles mounted on the
steering wheel.
Output is increased to 200 hp and 180 lb-ft of
torque in the SE-R Spec V, which also gets a sixspeed
manual transmission and limited slip differential.
The engine features a resin intake manifold and dual
branch exhaust manifold, revised piston crown shape
to support a higher compression ratio (10.5:1), iridium
tipped sparkplugs, a revised camshaft profile, reinforced
connecting rods and a counterweight crankshaft
to help push the redline to 6,800 rpm.
The SE-R Spec V also sports higher-rate springs, shocks and bushings, high-performance
tires and high-capacity front disc brakes with 12.6-inch rotors. A revised cowl top
structure and trunk-mounted “V” brace improve body rigidity.