by Enduring Popularity
Rumors about the Nissan Versa’s discontinuation have circulated for years, but this unpretentious compact sedan continues to exist. In the first nine months of the year, 41,463 units were sold in the USA, which is 41.5% more than in 2024. These figures confirm that America’s most affordable new car still has potential, and Nissan is aware of this.
Earlier this year, the brand confirmed plans to release over 14 new and updated models by 2027, including a redesigned Versa sedan.
Note that in this product review, the sedan was grouped with the updated NP300 Navara for Latin America. However, there is a possibility that the Versa will continue to be sold in the USA. Let’s consider what the updated subcompact could offer.
Sharpened Design
The design of the extensive 2027 Versa facelift borrows inspiration from the all-new Sentra and the Murano crossover, featuring an impressive new front end with two-tier daytime running lights and a bold contrasting grille.
Most panels are completely new, but the window area and roof remain unchanged. Cleaner, simplified body elements replace curves with sharper lines and pronounced wheel arch details, while larger alloy wheels improve its stature.
The rear received a trunk with an integrated spoiler and a squared-off bumper for improved aerodynamics.
Interior Updates
According to industry reports, a new digital instrument cluster and multimedia system are likely to debut, offering faster input processing and clearer graphics. Additionally, general improvements in interior materials and ergonomics are expected to enhance the overall feel and comfort compared to the current model.
The standard suite of driver assistance systems called ‘Safety Shield’ will remain, but a panoramic camera with moving object detection may appear in higher trim levels. Chassis refinements may include increased rigidity and a revised suspension setup for comfort.
Familiar Powertrain
As for the powertrain, a slightly refined 1.6-liter gasoline engine is likely to remain, as is the Xtronic CVT, which will remain the only transmission option.
Earlier this year, Nissan discontinued the five-speed manual transmission in the current Versa, citing that only 5% of the model’s sales were versions with it. Unfortunately, a manual transmission is unlikely to return.
Given its positioning as Nissan’s most affordable sedan, hybrid or electric variants seem unlikely. This is a serious facelift, not a completely new development, and maintaining low cost remains a defining feature of the Versa.
Competitors and Presentation
The Versa was once part of a saturated market alongside the Mitsubishi Mirage, Mazda2, and Toyota Yaris, but now it remains the only subcompact sedan on the American market.
Its main competitor now is the in-house Kicks crossover, which has higher ground clearance, but the Versa retains a price advantage, starting from $17,390.
The current model is produced at the Nissan CIVAC plant in Cuernavaca, Mexico. However, due to a plan to reduce global production capacity, this plant will close in 2026, and Versa production will move to the plant in Aguascalientes.
Would you consider the updated 2027 Versa if it continued to be sold in the USA?
The growth in Versa sales against the backdrop of an overall contraction in the affordable sedan market indicates sustained demand in this segment. The production shift may impact logistics and cost, but preserving key technical specifications and focusing on design updates and comfort allow Nissan to remain competitive without losing its main advantage – the affordable price. This demonstrates the brand’s strategy of balancing updates and cost-effectiveness in an environment where many competitors have left this class.
