Shortly after the New York debut, the carmaker has released a new video that walks us around the four-door model that will arrive in the US this summer. The compact is built on Nissan's “V” platform that also underpins the Micra sub-compact hatch, with which the Versa share many components, including the dash.
In the US, only one engine choice will be made available, a revised 1.6-liter unit that develops 109 hp and 107 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. The base model comes with a five-speed manual gearbox, while the CVT transmission is available as an extra.
Nissan’s own fuel economy estimates say the Versa uses 30mpg City, 37mpg Highway and 33mpg Combined, for models equipped with the CVT transmission, and 27mpg City, 36mpg Highway and 30 mpg Combined, for the basic S model with the manual.
"Compact cars are getting a lot of attention lately due to rising fuel costs and concerns about the environment. Yet many buyers are disappointed in what they find - vehicles rife with compromise," says Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "This new Versa Sedan, a 'clean sheet' ground-up design, takes small cars in a whole new direction - proving that you don't have to sacrifice style for affordability, interior roominess for a smaller footprint, or drivability for high mpg."
"We see buyers in this segment as people who are always busy, even while relaxing," explains Castignetti. "With the amount of time they typically spend in their vehicles, we want to make sure they feel good about their purchase long after the new car smell has worn off. So we invested in areas that they see and touch most - like available Fine Vision instrumentation, quality fabrics, bright trim work and comfortable seating for front and rear seat passengers."
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