2012 Nissan Versa

Exterior

The new 2012 Nissan Versa sedan is being built on an all-new front-wheel drive global "V" platform that weighs about 150 lbs less than the previous "B" platform. It is being built on a 102.4-inch wheelbase, but is 1.2 inches lower in height (59.6 inches) and 0.6 inches shorter in overall length (175.4 inches) compared to the current model. Surprisingly so, the Versa actually provides a few extra millimeters of space in the backseat thanks to a longer wheelbase.

Interior

In addition to added legroom, potential owners of the Versa will be able to choose from three options packages: the Cruise Control Package (1.6 S CVT only), the SV Convenience Package (1.6 SV only), and the SL Tech Package (1.6 SL only). The contents of the Cruise Control Package are self explanatory; you get cruise control. The SV Convenience Package adds a Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, upgraded audio, iPod control, map lights, and a front passenger vanity mirror. The SL Tech Package adds the Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic (XM subscription required, sold separately), a 5-inch color touch-screen display, and XM Satellite Radio (XM subscription required, sold separately).

Engine

The 2012 Nissan Versa is powered by a 1.6 liter engine that delivers a total of 109 HP at 6,000 rpm and 107 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission (1.6 S model only) or a next-generation Xtronic CVT transmission. The engine delivers a fuel economy of 30 mpg City, 37 mpg Highway, and 33 mpg Combined with the CVT transmission (27/36/30 mpg with the 5-speed manual transmission).

"The result of all these enhancements and advances is that the new Versa Sedan engine burns cleaner and uses less fuel, which combined with the improved CVT performance and better aerodynamics reduces overall fuel consumption by about five miles per gallon versus the 2011 Versa Sedan," says Castignetti. "Better mileage means fewer stops at the pump – and more ‘room in the wallet’ for other activities."

Prices

The new 2012 Nissan Versa will go on sale this summer at a starting price of $10,990. Customers will have the option to choose from three trim levels: Versa Sedan 1.6 S (offered in 5MT and CVT versions), Versa Sedan 1.6 SV (CVT only), and Versa Sedan 1.6 SL (CVT only).

Competition

Two of the Versa’s competitors were also presented at the same New York Auto Show: the Hyundai Accent and the Kia Rio Sedan. The Accent will be offered with a 1.6-liter Gamma four-cylinder engine that delivers 138 HP and 123 lb-ft of torque, while the Rio Sedan gets a 135HP 1.6-litre GDI four-cylinder engine with the option of either a six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic. These two competitors offer up some stiff competition and end up beating out the Versa in terms of power. Now, since Kia is moving on up in the automotive world, we’d be tempted to stick with them in this situation. The Rio sedan has a fresh design that is rather appealing.