The new 2012 Nissan Versa->ke328 has shown up at the 2011 New York Auto Show, but it isn't exactly bringing anything we don't already know about considering it was unveiled as the Tiida at the Shanghai Auto Show. It is built on a new global "V" (for Versatile) platform which is a bit shorter than the previous platform, but has a longer wheelbase which provides a tad bit more room in the backseat for passengers. Another great thing about the new Versa/Tiida is that it aims to deliver a fuel economy of 33 mpg on the combined cycle.

"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->ke62 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."

The new Versa sedan will go on sale this summer in 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) with a starting price of $10,990.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Nissan Versa.

nissan-versa

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: nissan-versa
Pros
Cons

2012 Nissan Versa

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Nissan Versa
  • Horsepower: 109 @ 6,000
  • Torque: 107 @ 4,400
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

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->ke478 and the Kia Rio->ke1322 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.