Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2014 Nissan Versa Note pushes the little hatchback forward]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/2014-nissan-versa-note-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/2014-nissan-versa-note-detroit-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/15/2014-nissan-versa-note-detroit-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Nissan Versa Note

Alright, truth time: The Nissan Versa isn't exactly our favorite car in the subcompact class. It's certainly competent, reliable transportation, but it's hardly an emotional purchase choice. Perhaps this new version of the Versa, then, can change our minds a bit. Meet the Versa Note - the cuter, five-door version of the li'l sedan, making its debut here at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

Aesthetically, the Versa Note is a pretty pleasant-looking thing; we've seen it before in JDM-spec. It's a decidedly aerodynamic thing, too, with a drag coefficient of just 0.29. And because of that - as well as an efficient little powertrain - the Note will achieve up to 40 miles per gallon on the highway.

Under the hood is Nissan's 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine churning out a furious 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. Like, well, every other Nissan car, the Versa is equipped with a continuously variable transmission and will drive the front wheels exclusively. Base S models can be had with a five-speed manual transmission, but the moment you step up to a higher trim level, the do-it-yourself shifter goes away.

There's a whole bunch of technological goodies available on the Versa Note, as well, including Nissan's excellent AroundView Monitor that'll give you a bird's eye view of your surroundings. NissanConnect is also available on SL models with the technology package, equipped with things like NavTraffic, NavWeather, hands-free text messaging, streaming audio, Pandora and Bluetooth, all housed in a 5.8-inch touch-screen.

What's really attractive about the Note is its starting price: $13,990. That represents a $2,000 increase over the base Versa sedan, but well undercuts a lot of competitors in the segment. The Versa note officially hits dealerships this summer. Scroll down for the official press blast.

Continue reading 2014 Nissan Versa Note pushes the little hatchback forward

2014 Nissan Versa Note pushes the little hatchback forward originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 08:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 nissan versa notedetroitdetroit 2013nissanversaversa noteTue, 15 Jan 2013 08:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20428564/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/15/2014-nissan-versa-note-detroit-2013/20428564/article-detail.xml 20428564 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-2014-nissan-versa-note628opt-1358256315_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/001-2014-nissan-versa-note628opt-1358256315.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan bringing 2014 Versa Note to Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/12/nissan-bringing-2014-versa-note-to-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/12/nissan-bringing-2014-versa-note-to-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/12/nissan-bringing-2014-versa-note-to-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Nissan Versa Note

Nissan today confirmed that it will be showing the 2014 Versa Note - not Versa, not Note, but Versa Note - at next week's 2013 Detroit Auto Show. And while we can't see a whole lot from this one teaser image, we're willing to bet that the car looks a lot like this.

All Nissan will tell us at this time is that the Versa Note will have "segment-exclusive technology, outstanding fuel economy, smart packaging and class-leading cargo space." Sounds... class-competitive.

Given how turned-off we are by the second-generation Versa sedan, it'll be interesting to see just what's in store for this Notably more functional version of the affordable compact. Stay tuned for the full details live from Cobo Hall in just a few days, and scroll down to read Nissan's brief press blast.

Continue reading Nissan bringing 2014 Versa Note to Detroit

Nissan bringing 2014 Versa Note to Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Jan 2013 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2014 nissan versa notedetroitdetroit 2013nissanversaversa noteSat, 12 Jan 2013 14:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20427281/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/12/nissan-bringing-2014-versa-note-to-detroit/20427281/article-detail.xml 20427281 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/versanote628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/versanote628.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan prices the 2013 Versa, Cube and Armada]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/nissan-prices-the-2013-versa-cube-and-armada/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/nissan-prices-the-2013-versa-cube-and-armada/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/nissan-prices-the-2013-versa-cube-and-armada/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Nissan Versa

Nissan has revealed prices for three of its 2013 offerings: the Versa, Cube and Armada. There are no exterior revisions for any beyond paint choices, but all get new combinations in packaging and tech along with minor price increases.

The Versa goes up in price by $1,000. The base, five-speed manual Versa S rings up at $11,990 before the $790 destination and handling charge. Even at that price, the Versa remains the least expensive new car in America to buy. A 1.6 S AT with a four-speed automatic joins the lineup on top of the five-speed and the Xtronic CVT, bringing 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway to the mix. A new S Plus trim gets cruise control and two more rear speakers.

Aero enhancements like low-rolling resistance tires, an air intake guide, rear spoiler and rear wheel and underbody air deflectors mean that every CVT Versa gets 40 highway mpg, up from 38 mpg in 2012. The Versa line maxes out at $16,590 for the 1.6 SL CVT.

The 2013 Cube goes up by $180, now starting at $16,760 before $790 for destination and handling. For 2013, Nissan axes the base 1.8 model, leaving just S and SL trims. Transmission choices remain a six-speed manual or CVT.

The 2013 Armada's price rises by $840 to $40,710 before the $995 destination fee. A new Platinum Reserve Package makes the priciest Armada sticker at $56,180. It includes 20-inch dark chrome wheels, dark chrome grille and outside mirrors, two-tone Chocolate/Almond leather seating, and dark satin chrome interior accents. For the back-seaters, the single eight-inch screen for the DVD system becomes two seven-inch, headrest-mounted screens.

The press releases below have more details on each of the new offerings.

Continue reading Nissan prices the 2013 Versa, Cube and Armada

Nissan prices the 2013 Versa, Cube and Armada originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Nov 2012 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 nissan armada2013 nissan cube2013 nissan versaarmadacubenissanversaSun, 25 Nov 2012 14:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20387418/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/25/nissan-prices-the-2013-versa-cube-and-armada/20387418/article-detail.xml 20387418 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013versaprice_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013versaprice.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan upsets Japanese media by making them wait for new Versa]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/nissan-upsets-japanese-media-by-making-them-wait-for-new-sentra/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/nissan-upsets-japanese-media-by-making-them-wait-for-new-sentra/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/08/nissan-upsets-japanese-media-by-making-them-wait-for-new-sentra/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Who knew an unveiling of a workaday subcompact could create such a fuss? A practice growing in popularity among the Japanese auto industry has not been well received by the country's automotive press. It seems that automakers' plans to debut new models in other markets, well in advance of a home market on-sale date, is rubbing local media members the wrong way. This sentiment is could very well be the motivation behind what went down at Nissan's Yokohama headquarters recently.

The Japanese automotive press gathered at Nissan HQ for the home market unveiling of the Versa (a.k.a. Tiida, Sunny, Almera, Pulsar, depending on where you live). According to reports, the media met the automaker with jeers rather than the usual "oohs" and "aahs" that come with a vehicle unveiling. Members of the press took issue with what they viewed as a lack of basic features. One reporter noted the lack of a middle rear headrest, suggesting that any employees driving the Versa as a fleet car will view it as if Nissan's management does not value them.


Apparently, the Versa costs 1,388,100 yen, which converts to $17,638 in undervalued dollars - well above the $10,990 starting price in the States. However, that was not as central to the complaints as much as the notion that the perceived decontenting risked demotivating Japanese workers. It's a unique critique, but one cannot argue with the Versa's international success - the car is already selling 500,000 units internationally.

Nissan upsets Japanese media by making them wait for new Versa originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Oct 2012 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 nissan versaalmeranissanpulsarsunnytiidaversaMon, 08 Oct 2012 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20343857/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/08/nissan-upsets-japanese-media-by-making-them-wait-for-new-sentra/20343857/article-detail.xml 20343857 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2012-nissan-versa-628_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2012-nissan-versa-628.jpeg <![CDATA[Renault gives rhinoplastic upgrade to Versa for Indian market]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/renault-gives-rhinoplastic-upgrade-to-versa-for-indian-market/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/renault-gives-rhinoplastic-upgrade-to-versa-for-indian-market/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/renault-gives-rhinoplastic-upgrade-to-versa-for-indian-market/#commentsFiled under: , ,



What do you call a Nissan Versa with a new nose and a home in the Indian car market? A Renault Scala. Given a chrome grille insert, the blacked-out crossbar common to Renaults and a few other "status-enhancing" tweaks, the Scala is Renault's fifth offering in India and rounds out its segment coverage.

The Scala is not only positioned as a sedan with value pricing and luxurious equipment, it is presented as a carriage for the chauffeured classes: best-in-class roominess, leather seating, rear vents for the climate control and two cupholders in the rear armrest attend to the boss in the back.

An 86-horsepower diesel and a 99-hp gas engine take care of matters up front. Available now in three trims, it joins the Pulse hatch, Fluence sedan, and Koleos and Duster SUVs in Renault's Indian line-up, and comes with Renault's CompleteCare service and 24/7 Roadside Assistance. Have a read of the press release below for more info.

Continue reading Renault gives rhinoplastic upgrade to Versa for Indian market

Renault gives rhinoplastic upgrade to Versa for Indian market originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>indianissanrenaultrenault scalascalaversaMon, 10 Sep 2012 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20319146/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/10/renault-gives-rhinoplastic-upgrade-to-versa-for-indian-market/20319146/article-detail.xml 20319146 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/renaultscalalaunch_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/renaultscalalaunch.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Nissan Versa's airbag under NHTSA investigation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/20/2012-nissan-versas-airbag-under-nhtsa-investigation/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/20/2012-nissan-versas-airbag-under-nhtsa-investigation/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/20/2012-nissan-versas-airbag-under-nhtsa-investigation/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Nissan Versa

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating the 2012 Nissan Versa for a possible defective airbag cable assembly. Some 100,000 Versa sedans may have cables that are pinched in the steering column, which could lead to the airbag not deploying, according to Automotive News.

Nissan notified NHTSA of the issue, though no complaints about the problem have yet been made. The investigation by NHTSA will help determine whether or not a recall is warranted.

The new Versa was already recalled in February for problems with its shifter assembly, whereby automatic-transmission-equipped cars could be shifted out of Park without the driver first depressing the brake pedal. To its credit, though, the Versa was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in March.

2012 Nissan Versa's airbag under NHTSA investigation originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan versaairbagairbag recallnhtsanissanversaMon, 20 Aug 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20303689/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/20/2012-nissan-versas-airbag-under-nhtsa-investigation/20303689/article-detail.xml 20303689 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-nissan-versa-sedan-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2012-nissan-versa-sedan-review.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan teases new Sentra, Rogue and more]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/nissan-teases-new-sentra-rogue-and-more/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/nissan-teases-new-sentra-rogue-and-more/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/nissan-teases-new-sentra-rogue-and-more/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

New Nissans teased

The next year and a half will be an interesting period for Nissan. The automaker has announced that it will launch five new models over the course of 15 months, starting with the 2013 Altima that made its debut at the New York Auto Show last week. What's next? Take a close look at the image above and those mysterious shapes under the white sheets aren't exactly tough to decipher.

Left to right, first up is clearly the Versa hatchback, the five-door follower of the not-so-highly regarded sedan that launched late last year. Want another glimpse of what could be in store for the large-rumped Versa? Have a glance at its overseas cousin, the Tiida. The North American model will no doubt be different, but the Tiida indeed previews what could be in store.

The next two models aren't really a surprise - that big crossover is the Pathfinder that we've already seen in just-about-done concept form, and the middle car is the midsize Altima sedan. Moving one more space to the right, there's a smaller CUV that is, without question, the next-generation Rogue. Lastly, that's the new Sentra hanging out at the far right. The next Sentra has already been tipped to receive an Altima-like front fascia, and that's immediately noticeable even under the white sheet.

The 2013 Pathfinder will go on sale later this year, following the launch of the new Altima. As for what's next, your guess is as good as ours. As Car and Driver reports, the fact that Nissan has confirmed that one of these cars is the new Sentra makes us think it'll be the next one to arrive, not to mention the fact that it's the one most desperately in need of replacement.

Nissan teases new Sentra, Rogue and more originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altimanissanpathfinderroguesentraversaTue, 10 Apr 2012 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20211581/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/10/nissan-teases-new-sentra-rogue-and-more/20211581/article-detail.xml 20211581 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/five-new-nissans_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/five-new-nissans.jpg <![CDATA[Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent and Chevy Sonic top <i>Consumer Reports</i> subcompact shootout]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2012 Kia Rio sedan

Consumer Reports has just wrapped up an evaluation of subcompact sedans, and the Kia Rio EX has rolled out ahead of the class. The four-door beat out its corporate clone, the Hyundai Accent and the Chevrolet Sonic to take the top spot. Evaluators pointed to the sharp handling and well-optioned interior in the Rio as reasons for the vehicle's win. The newly redesigned Nissan Versa and unloved Toyota Yaris filled out the top five sedans. And what of the baby hatchbacks? CR once again credited the Honda Fit as leader of the pack, followed closely by the Versa Hatchback and Rio Hatchback.

The organization found fault with the base Chevrolet Sonic's fuel economy, and found the turbocharged LTZ model to be too expensive. Evaluators also felt the Sonic Turbo "didn't live up to its sporty aspirations."

We'll politely agree to disagree on that one.

All of the vehicles in the evaluation are either too new or scored too low in CR evaluations to earn a coveted Recommended rating. Hit the jump for a look at the full press release and debate amongst yourselves in Comments.

Continue reading Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent and Chevy Sonic top Consumer Reports subcompact shootout

Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent and Chevy Sonic top Consumer Reports subcompact shootout originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accentchevroletchevrolet sonicconsumer reportscrfithondahonda fithyundaihyundai accentkiakia rionissannissan versariosonictoyotatoyota yarisversayarisFri, 23 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20199653/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/23/kia-rio-hyundai-accent-and-chevy-sonic-top-consumer-reports/20199653/article-detail.xml 20199653 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/kia-rio-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/kia-rio-628.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Versa named IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/nissan-versa-named-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/nissan-versa-named-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/nissan-versa-named-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Nissan Versa sedan crash test

We may not have found much to like about the redesigned 2012 Nissan Versa sedan when we test drove it, but here's something in its favor: A Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

While the old Nissan subcompact never made it to the top of the IIHS rankings, the new sedan earned its award by scoring "good" ratings in front, side, rollover, and rear tests and coming equipped with standard stability control, according to the IIHS. The 2011 and earlier Versas only scored "acceptable" in side impact and roof strength tests.

Keep in mind that the Top Safety Pick only applies to the new sedan, as a redesigned version of the hatchback has not yet launched. The 2012 Versa hatchback is the same design that's been on sale since the 2007 model year.

See below for a video of the IIHS side impact test on the Versa sedan.

Continue reading Nissan Versa named IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/video]

Nissan Versa named IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan versacrash testiihsinsurance institute for highway safetynissansedantop safety pickversaversa sedanvideoThu, 08 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20189251/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/08/nissan-versa-named-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/20189251/article-detail.xml 20189251 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/versa-iihs-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/versa-iihs-opt.jpg <![CDATA[New Nissan Versa recalled for problem with shifter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/new-nissan-versa-recalled-for-problem-with-shifter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/new-nissan-versa-recalled-for-problem-with-shifter/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/new-nissan-versa-recalled-for-problem-with-shifter/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Nissan Versa

Some 36,000 Versa owners will soon be getting mail from Nissan. Automatic transmission-equipped 2012 Versas built between June 9, 2011, and January 13, 2012, may have defective shifter knobs or shifter assemblies, which could allow the car to be shifted out of park without first pressing the brake pedal.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report says that the defect increases the risk of crash or injury to pedestrians. The recall campaign is scheduled to begin on February 20, and concerned owners can call Nissan at 1-800-647-7261.

To read the full recall report, click past the jump.

Continue reading New Nissan Versa recalled for problem with shifter

New Nissan Versa recalled for problem with shifter originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan versanational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsanissannissan recallrecallversaversa recallFri, 10 Feb 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169095/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/new-nissan-versa-recalled-for-problem-with-shifter/20169095/article-detail.xml 20169095 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2012-nissan-versa-sedan-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2012-nissan-versa-sedan-review-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Nissan Versa Sedan [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/2012-nissan-versa-sedan-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/2012-nissan-versa-sedan-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/13/2012-nissan-versa-sedan-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What Are You Willing To Sacrifice For A Low Price?

2012 Nissan Versa Sedan

The compact car market is white-hot. The new Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra have lifted the segment to new levels of refinement while at the same time improving fuel economy to 40 miles per gallon on the highway and beyond. Instead of turning their attention back to trucks and SUVs, manufacturers are going even smaller. Automakers have begun pouring vast resources into the smaller subcompact segment, and the result has been a wealth of all-new models. The Chevrolet Sonic, Hyundai Accent and Ford Fiesta are all-new or updated and vastly superior to prior subcompacts that still linger in our memories like an unpleasant aftertaste.

Nissan has put its subcompact under the knife, too, as the 2012 Versa features all-new sheetmetal, revised powertrains and a fresh interior. The previous Versa was known for being larger and less expensive than its competition, and its sales reflected that - it's been the most popular model in its segment. But we've been curious to learn if this latest redesign may help or hurt the Versa's standing, so we borrowed the keys to a top trim 2012 Nissan Versa SL Sedan for a week to find out.

Continue reading 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan [w/video]

2012 Nissan Versa Sedan [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan versa sedanfeaturednissanreviewreviewsversaversa sedanFri, 13 Jan 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20147645/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/13/2012-nissan-versa-sedan-review/20147645/article-detail.xml 20147645 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-nissan-versa-sedan-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2012-nissan-versa-sedan-review.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Nissan Versa]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/19/2012-nissan-versa-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/19/2012-nissan-versa-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/19/2012-nissan-versa-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

America's Cheapest Car Returns With More

2012 Nissan Versa

V is for Versa, and Nissan would like you to believe that its 2012 Versa also stands for volume, value, virtues, versatility and, since we're out of Vs, sophistication. While other automakers have been out to redefine the idea of the compact car as something hip and sporty - no longer the moped of cardom - Nissan developed this Versa "to redefine compact car value, giving buyers everything they want and need in one stylish package."

That means the Versa makes math arguments, not emotional ones. It wants to give you more than you'll get elsewhere and not make you feel bad about going for its attributes instead of allure. As the segment sales leader, that argument has been working for years. Yet with other manufacturers adding new variables, we went to Seattle to see if the Versa still makes a case for itself.

And it does... if you like numbers.

Continue reading 2012 Nissan Versa

2012 Nissan Versa originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan versa2012 versafeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivenissannissan versaversaTue, 19 Jul 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19994153/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/19/2012-nissan-versa-first-drive-review/19994153/article-detail.xml 19994153 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-nissan-versa-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-nissan-versa-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Versa hatchback soldiers on for 2012 despite all-new sedan counterpart]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/nissan-versa-hatchback-soldiers-on-for-2012-despite-all-new-seda/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/nissan-versa-hatchback-soldiers-on-for-2012-despite-all-new-seda/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/nissan-versa-hatchback-soldiers-on-for-2012-despite-all-new-seda/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Nissan has officially released pricing on the company's 2012 Versa Hatchback. Buyers looking for the functionality of a five-door can expect to pay $14,380 excluding destination charges for models equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual transmission in S trim. Opting for a four-speed automatic gearbox will set you back an additional $1,000, while stepping up to SL trim with the company's Xtronic CVT will cost another $4,010. Of course, that stack of cash buys SL owners more than just the fuel-saving transmission. It also includes all of the equipment formerly stashed in the Premium Package as standard, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth hands-free calling and 16-inch aluminum wheels.

Keep in mind that aside from the new standard equipment, the 2012 hatch will soldier on much as it was in 2011. Nissan says that since most of the model's sales were five-doors, it wanted to debut an all-new sedan first.

Even so, the five-door prices mark a steep increase over the base Versa Sedan, which starts at just $10,990 when equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a five-speed transmission. The hatchback Versa is on sale right now, but shoppers looking to get their hands on the low-buck four-door will have to wait until later this year. Hit the jump for the full press blast.

Continue reading Nissan Versa hatchback soldiers on for 2012 despite all-new sedan counterpart

Nissan Versa hatchback soldiers on for 2012 despite all-new sedan counterpart originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan versanissannissan versanissan versa hatchbackversaversa five-doorversa hatchbackversa pricingMon, 18 Jul 2011 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19993865/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/18/nissan-versa-hatchback-soldiers-on-for-2012-despite-all-new-seda/19993865/article-detail.xml 19993865 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-nissan-versa-hatchback-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2012-nissan-versa-hatchback-630.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Nissan Versa priced from $10,990]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/11/2012-nissan-versa-priced-from-10-990/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/11/2012-nissan-versa-priced-from-10-990/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/11/2012-nissan-versa-priced-from-10-990/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Nissan Versa
2012 Nissan Versa - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2012 model year marks the end of the sub-$10,000 new car here in the United States, but Nissan is still committed to offering a bargain price for shoppers looking for purely basic transportation. The 2012 Versa subcompact has officially been priced, and the base 1.6 S 5MT model will only set you back a cool $10,990. And unlike the sub-$10K Versa that came before it, the new 2012 model comes standard with both air conditioning and an AM/FM/CD/AUX stereo.

Of course, more lavishly appointed Versa models are available, starting with the 1.6 S CVT at $12,760, the 1.6 SV CVT at $14,560 and the 1.8 SL CVT at $15,560. Nissan offers a host of optional equipment throughout the Versa range, including Bluetooth, XM satellite radio, a touch-screen navigation system and USB input for iPod/MP3 devices. Hit the jump for Nissan's official release.

Continue reading 2012 Nissan Versa priced from $10,990

2012 Nissan Versa priced from $10,990 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan versanissanpricingversaMon, 11 Jul 2011 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19988145/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/11/2012-nissan-versa-priced-from-10-990/19988145/article-detail.xml 19988145 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/000-2012-nissan-versa_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/000-2012-nissan-versa.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Nissan Versa will spawn hatchback body style, just not quite yet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/05/2012-nissan-versa-will-spawn-hatchback-body-style-just-not-quit/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/05/2012-nissan-versa-will-spawn-hatchback-body-style-just-not-quit/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/05/2012-nissan-versa-will-spawn-hatchback-body-style-just-not-quit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Nissan Versa
2012 Nissan Versa - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we studied the trends of hatchback and sedan sales numbers within the subcompact segment, we found that the more functional three- and five-door models tend to attract the majority of buyers. Nissan - a company whose Versa enjoys the largest share (20 percent) of this segment - stated that about two-thirds of all Versas sold in the United States are hatchbacks.

2012 Nissan TiidaSo why, then, when the 2012 Versa sedan debuted at the New York Auto Show last month, was there no five-door variant in sight? After all, the Versa's global sister, the Tiida (pictured right), debuted in funky hatchback form at the Shanghai Motor Show recently, and with the five-door model commanding the majority of sales, Nissan wouldn't be smart to kill off its more popular offering.

We spoke to David Reuter, Nissan's vice president of corporate communications, who assured us that a new version of the Versa hatchback is coming, just not quite yet.
The majority of Versa sold are the five-door. Overall, we sold 99,705 Versa in 2010, compared to our next closest competitor (Honda Fit) who sold just under 55,000 units. So, from a business standpoint, we decided to improve the sedan first.
As of this writing, it is unclear exactly when we'll see the next-generation Versa hatch. In the meantime, Reuter says that the current car will soldier on for the 2012 model year with "only normal model year to model year changes."

2012 Nissan Versa will spawn hatchback body style, just not quite yet originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 May 2011 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan versanissanversaversa hatchbackThu, 05 May 2011 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19932941/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/05/2012-nissan-versa-will-spawn-hatchback-body-style-just-not-quit/19932941/article-detail.xml 19932941 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/000-2012-nissan-versa_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/000-2012-nissan-versa.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2011: Nissan says subcompact buyers aren't looking for styling, sportiness]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/nissan-subcompact-buyers-arent-looking-for-styling-and-sportin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/nissan-subcompact-buyers-arent-looking-for-styling-and-sportin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/21/nissan-subcompact-buyers-arent-looking-for-styling-and-sportin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Nissan Versa
2012 Nissan Versa - Click above for high-res image gallery

After Nissan unveiled its redesigned 2012 Versa sedan at the New York Auto Show yesterday, coverage was almost unanimous in declaring it, at best, inconspicuous. David Reuter, Nissan's VP of Corporate Communications, tells Autoblog that's fine:
"The Fiesta may have been getting the press, this is what was selling. We were up 20 percent last year. Our competitors have gone for sporty and styling, but that's not what these buyers want. Subcompact buyers want a dependable, roomy car with good fuel economy, and they want the features and specs to feel they spent a lot more on a car than they did."
The formula, inconspicuous as it might be, has worked: Nissan moved 99,705 Versa sedans and hatchbacks in 2010, running away from everything else in the class - next were the Honda Fit with 54,354, the Hyundai Accent with 51,975, and the Chevrolet Aveo with 48,623 units sold. Say what you will about the looks, with a segment-leading 103 cubic feet of room in the 2012 Versa and more standard features at a competitive price point, the momentum will likely continue.


Gallery: 2012 Nissan Versa: New York 2011


Live photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

New York 2011: Nissan says subcompact buyers aren't looking for styling, sportiness originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 new york2011 new york auto show2012 nissan versadavid reuternew yorknew york auto shownissansubcompact salesversaversa salesThu, 21 Apr 2011 14:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19920013/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/21/nissan-subcompact-buyers-arent-looking-for-styling-and-sportin/19920013/article-detail.xml 19920013 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/03-2012-nissan-versa-ny-1303318866-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/03-2012-nissan-versa-ny-1303318866-opt.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2011: 2012 Nissan Versa offers 33 mpg for $10,990]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/20/2012-nissan-versa-new-york-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/20/2012-nissan-versa-new-york-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/20/2012-nissan-versa-new-york-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Nissan Versa
2012 Nissan Versa - Click above for high-res image gallery

Revealed "simultaneously" as the new Tiida in Shanghai, the 2012 Nissan Versa drove onto the stage here at the 2011 New York Auto Show spouting some impressive numbers: 33 miles per gallon (combined, and 30 city/37 highway) for the low, low price of $10,990. Sure, 33 ain't nothing compared to a Toyota Prius, but you could buy two Versas for the price of a Prius, and $10k buys a lot of gas at 33 mpg.

This is exactly the kind of thinking that Nissan wants car buyers to do, and the company is encouraging this train of thought by branding the Versa with its Pure Drive efficiency label - first applied to cars in Europe in 2008. The 2012 Versa, sporting a 1.6-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine and weighing 150 fewer pounds than the previous generation model, will be the first Pure Drive vehicle in the U.S. Speaking at the show, Nissan's executive vice-president of the America, Carlos Tavares, said that this "is a real car, complete with air conditioning, vehicle dynamic control, CD/radio with aux in, electric-assisted steering and 15-inch wheels and tires." You want more features, like satellite radio or "Fine Vision instrumentation?" They're available of course, but they'll cost you a bit more.

Tavares said the Versa is already the best selling car in it's segment, and we can see Nissan selling quite a few of these if the numbers talked about today bear themselves out on the road. Check out the details in our gallery below and read plenty more in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2012 Nissan Versa: New York 2011


Gallery: 2012 Nissan Versa

2012 Nissan Versa2012 Nissan Versa2012 Nissan Versa2012 Nissan Versa2012 Nissan Versa

Live photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading New York 2011: 2012 Nissan Versa offers 33 mpg for $10,990

New York 2011: 2012 Nissan Versa offers 33 mpg for $10,990 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 13:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 new york2011 new york auto show2012 nissan versanew yorknew york auto shownissan pure drivenissan versapure driveversaversa mpgversa msrpversa pure driveWed, 20 Apr 2011 13:18:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19919052/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/20/2012-nissan-versa-new-york-2011/19919052/article-detail.xml 19919052 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/01-2012-nissan-versa-ny-1303318852-1303319224_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/01-2012-nissan-versa-ny-1303318852-1303319224.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Nissan Versa gets early reveal as Tiida in Shanghai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/19/2012-nissan-versa-gets-early-reveal-as-tiida-in-shanghai/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/19/2012-nissan-versa-gets-early-reveal-as-tiida-in-shanghai/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/19/2012-nissan-versa-gets-early-reveal-as-tiida-in-shanghai/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Nissan Tiida
2012 Nissan Tiida - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan has joined the crowd of unveils at this year's Shanghai Motor Show by introducing the 2012 Tiida. While we expect to get a closer look at the American version of this hatch later this week at the 2011 New York Auto Show, most of the juiciest details have already been served up on the other side of the globe. Along with some shapely new lines and reworked headlights, the 2012 Nissan Tiida comes packing a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. That's different than the 1.8-liter lump found in the American Versa, though buyers can expect to see similar fuel economy.

Barring any major advancements in the vehicle's already-efficient CVT gearbox, the EPA will likely brand the car with the same 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway rating. Not bad considering that the little econo-can rocks 122 108 horsepower.

Interestingly enough, Nissan has made mention of a new turbocharged version of the Tiida, though no actual specifics have been mentioned at this point. While that likely means the pint-sized hatch will soon be packing one of the company's three-cylinder forced-induction engines, we're dreaming about a Versa with the 188 horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter engine from the Juke under the hood. Follow the jump for Nissan's official word from Shanghai.


Gallery: 2012 Nissan Tiida


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading 2012 Nissan Versa gets early reveal as Tiida in Shanghai

2012 Nissan Versa gets early reveal as Tiida in Shanghai originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 shanghai motor show2012 nissan tiida2012 nissan versa2012 tiida2012 versashanghaishanghai motor showtiidaversaTue, 19 Apr 2011 10:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19917428/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/19/2012-nissan-versa-gets-early-reveal-as-tiida-in-shanghai/19917428/article-detail.xml 19917428 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/tiida-001-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/tiida-001-630.jpg <![CDATA[Report: 2012 Nissan Versa to debut at New York Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/05/report-2012-nissan-versa-to-debut-at-new-york-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/05/report-2012-nissan-versa-to-debut-at-new-york-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/05/report-2012-nissan-versa-to-debut-at-new-york-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Nissan versa sketch
2012 Nissan Versa Sketch - Click above for high-res image

Nissan has hinted in the past that it plans to show a new small car at this year's New York Auto Show, and the folks at Inside Line now say that new vehicle will be the 2012 Versa. The next Versa will reportedly be based off of a new global B platform that already underpins the Nissan Sunny (pictured, right) and the Micra. The updated Versa will reportedly shrink a bit compared to the current model, and it will continue to slot below the Sentra in terms of price.

The Japanese automaker released a sketch of the next-generation model back in October, giving us an idea of what the Versa will look like. We're hoping the new Versa will once again be available in both sedan and hatchback variants, and it wouldn't hurt for fuel economy numbers to offer powertrain enhancements compared to the model that's currently on sale. Stay tuned.

[Source: Inside Line]

Report: 2012 Nissan Versa to debut at New York Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 new york2012 nissan versanew yorknew york auto shownissanversaTue, 05 Apr 2011 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19903471/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/05/report-2012-nissan-versa-to-debut-at-new-york-auto-show/19903471/article-detail.xml 19903471 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2012-versa-sketch-s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/2012-versa-sketch-s.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan teases next-gen Versa, confirmed for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/11/nissan-teases-next-gen-versa-confirmed-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/11/nissan-teases-next-gen-versa-confirmed-for-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/11/nissan-teases-next-gen-versa-confirmed-for-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Next Generation Nissan Versa sketch

Nissan has released a sketch of the next-generation Versa, and in the process has confirmed the new model will be sold in the United States. The 2011 model benefited from minor equipment and pricing changes, but the next Versa looks to take on much more stylish design language, with the Versa adopting some of the familial lines of its larger Altima and Maxima siblings.

Details are still very limited at this point, in fact we only have the above image and confirmation that this next-gen Versa will be sold here, but with the auto show season just ramping up, we'd expect to see Nissan's new compact bowing at the LA Auto Show this November.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Nissan Versa Hatchback


Photos by Steven J. Ewing / Copyright (C)2010 AOL

[Source: Nissan]

Nissan teases next-gen Versa, confirmed for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altimaMaximanext generationnext generation nissan versanissannissan versanissan versa pricingsub-compactversaMon, 11 Oct 2010 13:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19669332/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/11/nissan-teases-next-gen-versa-confirmed-for-u-s/19669332/article-detail.xml 19669332 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/l02bunveilsketch_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/l02bunveilsketch.jpg -1 2