Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) announced the addition of an all-new Nissan Versa hatchback and sedan for the 2007 model year. The new entry-level Versa is expected to have a MSRP starting at around $12,000. The hatchback model is scheduled to go on sale in early summer 2006, with the Versa sedan following in late 2006. The Versa is one of many enhancements to Nissan's 2007 car lineup, which will include an all-new Sentra, all-new Altima and enhanced Maxima.

2007 Nissan Versa

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2007 Nissan Versa
  • Engine/Motor: 1.8 DOHC
  • Horsepower: 120
  • Torque: 4800
  • Transmission: 4 speed manual
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

2007 Kawasaki KLX250S

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2007 Kawasaki KLX250S
  • Engine/Motor: Two cylinder, four stroke, 90° "V" type configuration
  • Horsepower: 70 HP @ 9000 RPM
  • Torque: 46.84 lbs/ft @ 7400 RPm
  • Transmission: 6-speed
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

"The Versa hatchback and sedan are slotted below Sentra in price, but not execution," said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. "They are 'entry-level' in their affordability, but they make no excuses – zero – in terms of quality, design, performance, safety, technology and, especially, roominess."

The name Versa reflects the "versatile space" provided by the roomy interior and cargo area. Versa is called Tiida in Mexico, Japan, China and other markets where the car is sold. And while Versa has a global footprint, the design, specifications and equipment offerings are customized for each major market.

The new Versa is built on Nissan’s "B" platform, with priorities placed on interior roominess, a high quality interior and comfortable, stress-free environment. In creating the Versa packaging, the design and engineering teams found a way to put a big interior in a small car. The interior length, front to back, is over six feet long.

"Rear seat leg room and knee room in the Versa is tremendous," said Bosley. "Typically in a small car, the driver and front seat passenger have to pull their seats forward just to make minimal leg room for the rear passengers – which means nobody, front or rear, enjoys the ride. With Versa, there’s room in front and room in back at the same time." Both the Versa hatchback and Versa sedan also feature large cargo areas, ideal for owners with highly active lives.

Along with a spacious cabin, Versa offers a high quality interior design and craftsmanship. The front seats are nearly as large as Maxima’s and comfort is a priority for all passengers. The interior features a clean, simple design and layout that accentuates its surprising roominess. The wide, laterally oriented instrument panel underscores Versa’s width, while the low center console flows freely toward the rear, giving a sense of the interior’s length.

Features

Every Nissan Versa comes with a standard 1.8-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine designed to satisfy both performance and environmental requirements. The all-new engine is rated at an estimated 120-horsepower and 125-plus lb-ft of torque (estimated). Fuel economy is estimated at a combined 38 miles per gallon with the available Nissan Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) transmission (final engine performance and fuel economy rating will be finalized closer to vehicle on-sale date).

Unusually for a U.S.-market subcompact, the Versa will feature a range of three transmissions, including a 6-speed manual, a four-speed automatic, and the company's Xtronic CVT, which is said to improve fuel economy to the tune of 10%. The 1.8L DOHC four-pot is estimated to put out 120-horses and "125-plus lb-ft torque."

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Enterior and Engine

The exterior of the Versa hatchback and sedan feature a dynamic look and attention to detail, as seen in the large headlights, signature Nissan grille and large taillights. The crisp, youthful body forms and long rooflines suggest both the roominess inside and Versa’s performance capabilities.

"Versa’s styling is another strong point, exceeding the usual expectations in class, with a touch of sophistication and definitely quality," said Bosley.

Versa is designed to provide Nissan’s trademark enjoyable, stress-free experience through use of an all-new 1.8-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine that satisfies both performance and environmental requirements. Three transmissions will be available with the 2007 Versa, including Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

At 122 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque, the engine is powerful and responsive, but it also delivers excellent fuel economy. Estimated fuel economy is 30 mpg City/36 mpg Highway with the CVT transmission, 30 mpg City/34 mpg Highway with the 6-speed manual transmission, and 28 mpg City/34 mpg highway with the 4-speed automatic transmission.

Unlike conventional stepped gear automatics, the new Xtronic CVT operates as essentially "one gear" through use of a belt and two pulleys. By infinitely varying the working diameters of the two pulleys, the transmission eliminates the "steps" between gears, resulting in a smoother, more efficient operation by keeping the engine in its optimum power range under a variety of driving and load conditions.

"With the availability of CVT in Versa, we’re putting our best technology on our entry-level vehicle," said Bosley.

Safety is another Versa strong point with the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) (includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags and front seat side-impact supplemental air bags for chest protection), standard Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), available roof-mounted curtain side-impact air bags for front and rear outboard occupant head protection, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system, child safety rear door locks, child seat upper tether anchors and front seat Active Head Restraints.

The Versa hatchback and sedan are offered in several models and with a long list of standard and available features and amenities, including available Intelligent Key, Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System, satellite radio and Rockford Fosgate-powered subwoofer.

Versa is manufactured at Nissan’s Aguascalientes, Mexico assembly plant that currently builds Nissan Sentra models for the U.S. market.

"Versa allows price-conscious consumers to have it all in one attractive, affordable package – roominess, comfort, style, performance, fuel efficiency and high quality," said Bosley. "With consumer interest growing in smaller vehicles, Versa provides value without sacrifice. It also opens up the Nissan dealer shopping and service experience to a wide range of consumers who may have only previously dreamed about owning a Nissan."

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At a Glance: 2007 Nissan Versa


The all-new 2007 Nissan Versa represents a dynamic new alternative to current entry-level hatchbacks and sedans. Built on Nissan’s proven B-platform, the stylish new Versa offers a spacious cabin with exceptional rear leg room, a high quality interior and a comfortable, stress-free environment. Versa is available with a standard 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a choice of three transmissions, including Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) that provides smooth shifting and enhanced fuel efficiency.


The front-wheel drive Versa will be available in two body styles, a 5-door hatchback and 4-door sedan, and each will offer two well-equipped models, the S or the SL. Both will be offered with a long list of standard and available equipment, including available Intelligent Key, Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System, satellite radio and Clarion speakers with a Rockford Fosgate-powered subwoofer. The Versa hatchback went on sale in July 2006 with a starting MSRP of $12,550, and the Versa sedan will follow in early 2007.


Highlights of the 2007 Nissan Versa include:


Body


  • Long wheelbase (102.4 inches), short front and rear overhangs
  • Body color front and rear bumpers, large headlights, Nissan signature grille
  • 0.31 coefficient of drag
  • Body color dual remote-controlled outside mirrors


Engine and Driveline


  • 122-horsepower 16-valve 1.8-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 127-plus lb-ft of torque
  • Available Nissan Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
  • Available 4-speed electronically controlled automatic with overdrive
  • Standard 6-speed manual
  • Front engine/front-wheel drive
  • Nissan "B" platform


Suspension, Steering and Braking


  • Independent MacPherson strut front suspension
  • Torsion beam rear suspension
  • Front and rear stabilizer bars
  • Electric power steering
  • Standard 15-inch wheels with P185/65HR15 tires
  • Available 15-inch 6-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels
  • Power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes with available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)


Interior Features


  • Roomy, high quality interior with 72.3-inch cabin length
  • Large interior volume – 94.4-cubic feet Hatchback (without sunroof); 93.9-cubic feet Sedan (without sunroof)
  • Ample cargo volume – 16.9 cubic feet Hatchback (with rear seats up); 13.8 cubic feet Sedan
  • Extensive use of soft-touch materials
  • Large, comfortable seating
  • Available Intelligent Key, Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System
  • Available satellite radio and Rockford Fosgate-powered subwoofer


Safety and Security


  • Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones
  • Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) (includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags and front seat side-impact supplemental air bags for chest protection)
  • Available roof-mounted curtain side-impact air bags for front and rear outboard occupant head protection
  • LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
  • Child safety rear door locks, child seat upper tether anchors
  • Front seat Active Head Restraints
  • Standard Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)


Models and Manufacturing


  • Offered in several well-equipped models: Versa S and Versa SL
  • Assembled by Nissan Mexicana SA de CV (NMEX-DF), Aguascalientes, Mexico


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Driving Dynamics


Small, but powerful. Powerful, but fuel efficient. An uncommon combination for an uncommon car. The advanced transmission and suspension have been designed for a smooth, quiet and solid driving experience. The only time you'll know you're driving a small car is at the gas pump.


Power


  • Fuel Economy
  • 1.8-liter 4-cylinder Engine
  • Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission)
  • 6-speed Manual Transmission
  • 4-speed Automatic Transmission


Handling and braking


  • Vehicle-speed-sensitive Power Steering
  • Suspension
  • Anti-lock Braking System
  • Electronic Brake force Distribution
  • Brake Assist


Fuel Economy


30 mpg in the city. 36 mpg on the highway. More money in the pocket.


Vehicle-speed-sensitive Power Steering


At low vehicle speeds, steering feels more responsive and easy to turn. As vehicle speeds increase, the feel tightens to help give you better control of the vehicle.


1.8-liter 4-cylinder Engine


How do you produce a class-leading1 122-hp and 127 lb-ft of torque while going 420 miles2 between fill-ups? With an all-new 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine featuring an all-aluminum block and head, microfinished camshafts and crankshaft, as well as molybdenum-coated pistons. All this leads to improved friction, thermal efficiency and one exhilarating drive.


In addition, an advanced Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System provides smooth power and aids fuel efficiency. The engine also produces 90% of its torque at 2400 rpm, so the power is always there when and where you need it.


Suspension


Versa's advanced suspension smoothes out the road's rough edges for a refined ride usually found only in larger luxury vehicles. Nissan ripple-control shock absorbers not only absorb shock, but also damp out suspension vibrations that can be felt inside the cabin. A rebound spring located in the shock absorber keeps the car flat on wavy roads and during cornering for continuously responsive handling.


Anti-lock Braking System


In an emergency stop, Versa's available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps you maintain steering control when you need it most. By pumping the brakes 18 times per second, ABS helps keep the wheels from locking up so you can maneuver to safety. Versa's ABS also features Electronic Brake force Distribution and Brake Assist (see those items for more information).


Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission)


Hit the driving sweet spot with a virtual "gearless" transmission that always delivers the right amount of power to the wheels. Need power to pass? CVT holds the engine at optimal rpm for a rush of linear acceleration. Cruising on the highway? CVT drops the rpm low to maximize fuel economy and reduce noise. And without conventional fixed gears, there's no shift shock, just the smoothest driving experience available.


Electronic Brake force Distribution


Versa's available Anti-lock Braking System features an advanced technology called Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). It actually senses the weight in the rear of the car (passengers, cargo, or even how much fuel is in the tank) and sends more force to the rear brakes accordingly. So you experience more effective, better balanced braking.


6-speed Manual Transmission


Power, control and fuel efficiency are in the palm of your right hand with the only 6-speed manual transmission in the Versa's class. Attached to the 122-hp engine, you sprint off the line and continue to achieve breathtaking acceleration throughout the mid-range. And the long-legged top gear provides for quiet, economical cruising.


4-speed Automatic Transmission


The Versa's optional 4-speed automatic transmission is anything but. Electronically controlled shifting smoothly transitions between gears and quickly responds to the accelerator. The overdrive fourth gear and lockup torque converter maximize fuel economy and keep the engine quiet at freeway speeds.


Brake Assist


Another advanced feature of Versa's available Anti-lock Braking System, Brake Assist senses the need for maximum braking by monitoring how quickly the brake pedal is depressed. If you hit the brake pedal suddenly, the system immediately applies maximum available power boost.

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 Price and Option


When it comes to comparisons with others in its class, Versa is a car packed with the unexpected. Both the Sedan and Hatchback start with a 122-hp engine that delivers class-leading power and torque*, plus exceptional fuel-efficiency. Available high-tech features like the Intelligent Key keyless entry system, Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System, and advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) will surprise. So will the largest interior in its class.* Things you wouldn’t expect. But will quickly appreciate. Explore the brand-new Versa.

2007 Versa Sedan


1.8 S
From: $12,550

Nicely equipped with:

  • 122-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine
  • Electric power-assisted steering
  • Air conditioning with in-cabin microfilter
  • AM/FM/CD audio system
  • Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags
  • Front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags


1.8 SL
From: $14,550


Key upgrades include:

  • 15" Aluminum-alloy wheels
  • Power windows and door locks
  • Remote keyless entry
  • Cruise control
  • AM/FM/CD audio system
  • 60/40-split rear seats
  • Vehicle Security System


FACTORY INSTALLED OPTIONS

  • Convenience Package $700
  • Sunroof Package $600
  • Power Package $700
  • Splash Guards (Front and Rear) $110
  • ABS Package $250
  • Sirius Satellite Radio $300
  • XM Satellite Radio $300


PORT INSTALLED ACCESSORIES

  • Floor Mats/Trunk Mat (5-Piece Set) $150
  • Floor Mats/Trunk Mat (4-Piece Set) $100
  • Aluminum Kick Plate $90



2007 Versa HatchBack


1.8 S
From: $12,550


Nicely equipped with:

  • 122-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine
  • 60/40 Split fold-down rear seatbacks
  • Air conditioning with in-cabin microfilter
  • AM/FM/CD audio system
  • Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags
  • Seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags


1.8 SL
From: $14,550


Key upgrades include:

  • 15" Aluminum-alloy wheels
  • Power windows and door locks
  • Remote keyless entry
  • Cruise control
  • AM/FM/CD audio system
  • Vehicle Security System


FACTORY INSTALLED OPTIONS

  • Convenience Package $700
  • Sunroof Package $600
  • Audio Package $300
  • Power Package $700
  • Sport Package $700
  • Rear Roof Spoiler $350
  • Splash Guards (Front and Rear) $110
  • ABS Package $250
  • Sirius Satellite Radio $300
  • XM Satellite Radio $300


PORT INSTALLED ACCESSORIES

  • Floor Mats/Trunk Mat (5-Piece Set) $150
  • Floor Mats/Trunk Mat (5-Piece Set) $150
  • Aluminum Kick Plate $90