The Nissan Versa Remains America's Cheapest Car, and This Is What You Get for Your Money

Nissan made the new Versa $150 more expensive than its predecessor, which is still in the online configurator with its $15,980 MSRP. But the refreshed 2023 Nissan Versa still is the cheapest car you can get in America, sitting below Mitsubishi's Mirage, which starts at $16,695.

The starting price is for the entry-level Versa S, which sports halogen headlights and 15-inch steel wheels. Nissan promises better sound insulation. The driver will benefit from the presence of keyless entry, power windows, and a four-speaker audio system, while the infotainment menu is displayed on a 7-inch touchscreen.

The 1.6-liter 16-valve four-cylinder engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Those who want the optional Xtronic CVT will have to pay $17,800.

Upper in the lineup is the Versa SV, which starts at $19,420, with the same engine, this time standardly working alongside the Xtronic CVT gearbox. It gets 16-inch alloy wheels, a push-button ignition, wireless smartphone charger, and the instrument cluster goes digital, with the relevant driving information being displayed on a 7-inch display. An arrest shows up between the front seats, while the rear seat can split and fold.

The range-topping Versa SR starts at $20,140. This version gets LED headlights and 17-inch alloy wheels, Intelligent Cruise Control, and connectivity services. The SR version is easily recognizable due to the presence of the dark chrome radiator grille, as well as of the rear spoiler and black mirrors with integrated turn signals.

Customers can also get a steering wheel in leather, an upgraded six-speaker audio system, and the 8-inch touchscreen. The automatic climate control system and the heated front seats are also on the menu.

The Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Automatic Braking, and High Beam Assist, all integrated in the Nissan's Safety Shield, are standard for all three trims.

Customers who want more can check the S Plus Package box for $1,190. The premium paint (the all-new Gray Sky Pearl included) is $395.

Under the hood of the subcompact sedan, the 1.6-liter engine generates 122 horsepower (124 metric horsepower) and 114 lb-ft (154 Nm) regardless of the trim.

A $1,095 destination fee is added to the starting price of each version. The Versa's days on the market are numbered. Nissan is going to retire the subcompact sedan together with the Altima after the 2025 model year. In 2022, the company sold only 13,396 units, so the decision does make sense. Nissan will launch an electric sedan in 2026, which leaves the Sentra the only sedan with an internal combustion engine in the carmaker's lineup.