At $11,798 CDN, the Versa's base S model offers the lowest price in Canada—$1,400 cheaper than the Accent, $2,501 less than the Yaris, and $1,100 less than the outgoing Versa.
But, since the base model is unavailable with A/C, it's hard to imagine that many will be sold. The volume seller is likely to be the mid-range SV CVT. Both S and SV models have standard 5-speed transmissions. Options offered include the CVT ($1,300), the Tech package ($800) and Convenience Package ($400), bringing the maximum price to $17,498 for the range-topping SL CVT.
In marketing speak, the Versa's target buyer is the "social pragmatist" (translation: cheap). "The car is a workhorse for transportation on a budget" said Verneuil.
This is the demographic that will gladly forgo exciting driving dynamics and plush creature comforts in exchange for an affordable sticker price and penny-pinching fuel economy.
All models have rear drum brakes and a torsion-beam rear axle with MacPherson struts geared for economical longevity rather than performance. The upside to the rear suspension setup is the lack of intrusion into trunk and cabin space.
Despite the obvious use of budget-minded hard interior plastics, the Versa's plenty comfortable for long commutes. Switchgear is uncomplicated, and well laid out (unlike our drive route).
Aside from the ample room, the seats are well-bolstered and supportive. Steering is good, although the wheel itself doesn't telescope. Rear seats split 60/40 and flip forward for extra cargo space, but they don't fold perfectly flat to offer a level floor.
Canadians have been spared the angst of mulling over interior colour choices: there's only one offered and it's charcoal. Nissan's research has indicated that we're not fond of light-coloured interior fabrics. Who knew?
Nissan's Advanced Air Bag system is standard across the line-up, as are power heated side mirrors and a rear defroster.
While it's not apt to put a smile on the driving enthusiast's face, the Versa is quite pleasant to drive; the new 1.6-litre, 109-hp engine is quiet for a four-cylinder, and the CVT is smooth enough that you'll forget it's not a conventional automatic. Standard on the base model, the 5-speed manual was not available during our test drive.
But, since the base model is unavailable with A/C, it's hard to imagine that many will be sold. The volume seller is likely to be the mid-range SV CVT. Both S and SV models have standard 5-speed transmissions. Options offered include the CVT ($1,300), the Tech package ($800) and Convenience Package ($400), bringing the maximum price to $17,498 for the range-topping SL CVT.
 |
| Despite the obvious use of budget-minded hard interior plastics, the Versa's plenty comfortable for long commutes. (Photo: Lesley Wimbush/Auto123.com) |
In marketing speak, the Versa's target buyer is the "social pragmatist" (translation: cheap). "The car is a workhorse for transportation on a budget" said Verneuil.
This is the demographic that will gladly forgo exciting driving dynamics and plush creature comforts in exchange for an affordable sticker price and penny-pinching fuel economy.
All models have rear drum brakes and a torsion-beam rear axle with MacPherson struts geared for economical longevity rather than performance. The upside to the rear suspension setup is the lack of intrusion into trunk and cabin space.
Despite the obvious use of budget-minded hard interior plastics, the Versa's plenty comfortable for long commutes. Switchgear is uncomplicated, and well laid out (unlike our drive route).
Aside from the ample room, the seats are well-bolstered and supportive. Steering is good, although the wheel itself doesn't telescope. Rear seats split 60/40 and flip forward for extra cargo space, but they don't fold perfectly flat to offer a level floor.
Canadians have been spared the angst of mulling over interior colour choices: there's only one offered and it's charcoal. Nissan's research has indicated that we're not fond of light-coloured interior fabrics. Who knew?
Nissan's Advanced Air Bag system is standard across the line-up, as are power heated side mirrors and a rear defroster.
While it's not apt to put a smile on the driving enthusiast's face, the Versa is quite pleasant to drive; the new 1.6-litre, 109-hp engine is quiet for a four-cylinder, and the CVT is smooth enough that you'll forget it's not a conventional automatic. Standard on the base model, the 5-speed manual was not available during our test drive.
 |
| The new 1.6-litre, 109-hp engine is quiet for a four-cylinder. (Photo: Nissan) |