2012 Nissan Versa the Cheapest Car in America, Priced From $10,990
Nissan is taking a calculated gamble with its all new 2012 Versa sub-compact. Rather than style it up and pile on the options like every other automaker seems to be doing, the Versa promises solid fuel economy and a spacious cabin, wrapped in a sea of beige stolen from Toyota.
How does Nissan plan to stay on top in the B-class segment when compared to flashy new rivals like the Ford Fiesta? Easy. They’ll price it so low you simply won’t be able to say no. The numbers have just been released, and the new 2012 Versa sedan will start from just $10,990. For those doing a little cross-shopping, that’s over $2,000 less than a base Fiesta sedan. If you’re looking for an automatic transmission (a CVT in Nissan’s case) you’ll have to step up slightly to $12,760.
The good news is, the base Versa isn’t as stripped-down as the previous bargain basement model offered and does include air conditioning, as well as an AM/FM/CD/Aux audio system. All Versa models come equipped with a new 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 109-hp and 1-7 lb-ft of torque. And thanks to a new dual injector system it gets 30/38-mpg (33-mpg combined) with the CVT transmission, or 27/36 (30-mpg combined) with the 5-speed manual.
The 2012 Versa will hit dealers in August with a new hatchback model also destined for North America and going on sale in July.
GALLERY: 2012 Nissan Versa
Hit the jump to get the model and price breakdown:
| Model/Engine/Transmission | |
| Versa Sedan 1.6 S 5MT | $10,990 USD |
| Versa Sedan 1.6 S CVT | $12,760 USD |
| Versa Sedan 1.6 SV CVT | $14,560 USD |
| Versa Sedan1.8 SL CVT | $15,560 USD |
With AutoGuide from its launch, Colum previously acted as Editor-in-Chief of Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine where he became a certifiable car snob driving supercars like the Koenigsegg CCX and racing down the autobahn in anything over 500 hp. He has won numerous automotive journalism awards including the Best Video Journalism Award in 2014 and 2015 from the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). Colum founded Geared Content Studios, VerticalScope's in-house branded content division and works to find ways to integrate brands organically into content.
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I looked at one a couple years ago, new it was like 17,000 or so and I really felt that was high based on just lookiing at it. I left. Tired of dealerships and sales people chasing mre and calling me until I am literally freaked out from the stalking....going to try to find an actual car factory to buy one lol. Who knows?
The chespest one on ebay is over 18K. My local dealer has them listed for no less than 13K....with most being offered at 16 to 18K. What gives?