In 1999, Japan saw a new version of the Silvia, the S15, now boasting 250 PS (247 bhp; 184 kW) at 6,400 rpm and 275 N⋅m; 203 lbf⋅ft (28 kg⋅m) at 4,800 rpm of torque from its SR20DET Inline-four engine,[28] thanks to a ball bearing turbocharger upgrade, as well as improved engine management system. The non-turbo SR20DE produced 165 PS (163 bhp; 121 kW).[29]

The S15 Silvia included aggressive styling inside and out, updating the previous Silvia styling in-line with modern car design trends. The body dimensions were reduced from the previous generation so that it would comply with Japanese Government compact class, which had an effect on sales of the previous model.

The S15 Silvia model lineup was initially simplified to just Spec-S and Spec-R, with both models offering an "Aero" variant with a large rear wing, side skirts, valances and front bumper.

This generation of the Silvia was only sold new in Japan, Australia and New Zealand. In Australia and New Zealand the car was sold as the Nissan 200SX.

As of August 2002, Nissan stopped producing the S platform with the S15-series Nissan Silvia being the final variant. Production of the Silvia ended amidst Nissan's efforts to...