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Vehicle Profile: The 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan
The lowest-priced subcompact sedan in America gets a full redesign.

The Nissan Versa Sedan has been exceeding America's expectations since its introduction. For 2012, the all-new Versa Sedan delivers a level of quality, refinement, roominess and value on par with larger cars costing thousands more.

The Versa is not only the lowest priced, but also since its launch in August, the 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan outsold all other subcompacts, making it the best-selling subcompact in America.

To make matters even better, the 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan (MSRP $10,990) offers five-passenger practicality, increased interior space and better fuel efficiency. It weighs 150 pounds less than before, and it sports a smoother, sleeker, more sophisticated exterior design. It even offers more rear legroom than both the Lexus LS 460 and the BMW 5 Series. And the spaciousness comes at no expense to the cargo area, as the trunk offers 14.8 cubic feet of space ? more than some midsize sedans including the Honda Accord.

The completely redesigned exterior is not only pleasing to the eyes, it also has function. A slippery and low 0.31 coefficient of drag and a sweeping roofline that helps reduce roof panel vibrations contribute to the increased fuel efficiency and interior cabin quietness. Whether on the freeway or city streets, the Versa is surprisingly composed, hushed and comfortable.

Three Versa models ? 1.6 S, 1.6 SV and 1.6 SL ? all offer a 1.6-liter four-cylinder good for 109 hp and 107 lb/ft of torque through either a five-speed manual transmission (available exclusively in the 1.6 S) or a next-generation Xtronic^® CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). With Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), the Versa Sedan has plenty of pep and is highly fuel-efficient, returning 30 mpg city and 38 mpg highway in CVT-equipped models.

The 1.6 S Versa Sedan is generously equipped with a trip computer, air conditioning, six-way adjustable driver's seat and a stereo with CD player and auxiliary input. If you opt for the Xtronic^® CVT instead of the five-speed manual, cruise control is standard as well.

The 1.6 SV models are equipped standard with cruise control, an upgraded four-speaker stereo system, remote keyless entry, Fine Vision high-contrast white-illuminated gauges and full power accessories. Buyers can also equip the 1.6 SV with iPod^® and Bluetooth^® capability. The top 1.6 SL model adds a 60/40-split/folding rear seat, front map lights, Bluetooth^®, a premium audio system with speed sensitive volume control and 15-inch alloy wheels. For even more technology, SL models can be equipped with the Nissan Navigation System and XM Satellite Radio.

Buyers can choose from eight colors including Titanium ? a color previously only available on the legendary Nissan GT-R sports car. Additional exterior features include a chrome-accented grille and door handles, and body-colored front and rear fascias.

The Versa is well equipped with standard occupant safety features including four-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS) and six airbags.

Lowest-priced and best selling with more interior legroom and cargo space than some mid- and full-size sedans? The 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan has been an instant sales hit in America, so stop in today and experience for yourself one of the best automotive values going.

Vehicle Preview: The 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan
All-new compact will deliver high mpg and midsize vehicle features.

Nissan has a history of packing high value into small cars, and all of that experience and expertise comes to the fore in its latest, the all-new 2012 Nissan Versa sedan.

Arriving shortly, the all-new 2012 Nissan Versa will deliver an even higher level of fuel economy, value and refinement than the first-generation Versa models. An MSRP of just $10,990 will be the only small number attached to the 2012 Nissan Versa sedan; the numbers for roominess and fuel economy will be big.

The first Nissan Versa scored big points with customers, especially in two areas where smaller cars tend to come up, well, small: Room and refinement. Some automakers seem to think that inexpensive cars don't need to be roomy. The first Nissan Versa tossed that old idea into the trash, and so roominess is a good place to start with the all-new 2012 Nissan Versa sedan.

A look at the specification sheet shows the new 2012 Versa will offer 90 cubic feet of interior volume and 14.8 cubic feet of trunk space. That puts the 2012 Versa near the larger end of the compact segment. More important is how that space works for the customer.

The 2012 Nissan Versa sedan will offer more rear legroom than some midsize sedans ? the most rear legroom in its class. In fact, the all-new 2012 Versa will even offer more rear legroom than the Lexus LS 460, BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. While those cars aren't the main competition for the Versa, the 2012 Versa sedan simply proves that a compact sedan can offer more than what many people customarily expect from small cars.

The trunk size is about average ? for a midsize sedan, not a compact. Nissan engineers focused on refining the trunk space, too, including how they shaped the hinges and side panels to get maximum usefulness.

What Nissan packed inside this spacious new sedan will delight customers as well. "We invested in areas that they see and touch most ? like available Fine Vision instrumentation, quality fabrics, bright trim work and comfortable seating," explained Al Castignetti, Vice President and General Manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

The 2012 Nissan Versa sedan will be available in three trim levels: S, SV and top-of-the-line SL. Depending on the model, available interior features include a trip computer, power windows, speed-sensing automatic door locks, a remote trunk release lever and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. The 2012 Versa SL will offer entertainment and connectivity technologies including a navigation system with five-inch touchscreen display, satellite radio and an iPod/USB interface.

The new 2012 Versa sedan is designed to look sophisticated. The "bigness" goes more than skin deep, too. Nissan also engineered the new Versa to ride as comfortably as a larger car. The 2012 Versa will be the first Nissan car to wear the PUREDRIVE™ badge on the trunklid. The badge designates the brand's most advanced technologies to promote eco-friendly driving and lower CO₂ emissions.

In the 2012 Versa sedan, these Nissan technologies include a new 1.6-liter engine that features an industry-first duel fuel injector system for each cylinder, plus a new generation of the brand's famed Xtronic CVT™ (continuously variable transmission). The combination, along with numerous other refinements, yields a combined city/highway fuel economy estimate of 33 mpg, which includes a highway figure of 38 mpg. The 2012 Versa S will offer a standard five-speed manual transmission with the CVT optional; the SV and SL models will come standard with the CVT.

The 2012 Nissan Versa sedan brings genuine roominess and outstanding value to the growing ranks of compact cars while leaving the price and fuel costs small. Make it a point to come see this new benchmark in compact sedans when it rolls into the showroom.

2012 Nissan Versa Sedan  The "Big Small Car" Brings Innovation Within Reach
 Offers Mid-Size Vehicle Technology Without Mid-Size Price; High Value, High MPG and Exceptional Roominess Highlight All-New Versa Sedan Design ?

Small on the outside, big on the inside. Smart technology with next-generation efficiency. A $10,990 starting M.S.R.P. New dual injector system and sub-planetary CVT design. Combined city/highway fuel economy of 33 miles per gallon. New global "V" (for Versatile) platform. Refined styling, high quality interior.

There are myriad ways the all-new 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan breaks new ground for entry-level compact sedans. And many ways to sum them all up. But perhaps a simple statement is best: Innovation Within Reach.

"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 Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "This new Versa Sedan, a 'clean sheet' ground-up design, takes small cars in a new direction ? proving that you don't have to sacrifice style for affordability, interior roominess for a smaller footprint, or drivability for high mpg."

Small When You Need It, Big Where You Want It
Knowing that entry-level vehicles are used as "workhorses" ? for commuting on weekdays, errand running on weekends and transporting family and friends all week long ? the designers of the new Versa Sedan sought to combine five-passenger practicality with a high degree of comfort and refinement. It also offers an unexpected level of available entertainment and connectivity features, such as Bluetooth®, navigation system with 5-inch touch-screen display, Satellite Radio and an iPod®/USB interface.

"We see buyers in this segment as people who are always busy, even while relaxing," explains Castignetti. "With the amount of time they typically spend in their vehicles, we want to make sure they feel good about their purchase long after the new car smell has worn off. So we invested in areas that they see and touch most ? like available Fine Vision instrumentation, quality fabrics, bright trim work and comfortable seating for front and rear seat passengers."

The new Versa Sedan's interior volume of 90.0 cubic feet and trunk volume of 14.8 cubic feet (104.8 cubic feet total) are intended to not only look great on a specifications sheet ? the passenger and cargo spaces have been configured for real-world use. Versa Sedan has, for example, more rear legroom than some mid-size sedans ? trumping even luxury cars such as the Lexus LS460, BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. And the trunk design focuses on useable space, taking into consideration everything from the size of the hinges to the shape of the sidewalls. A 60/40-split fold-down rear seat is offered on SL models for even greater versatility.

Other available interior features include trip computer, power windows with driver's one-touch down, speed-sensing auto door locks, remote trunk release lever and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Two interior colors are available, Sandstone and Charcoal.

"Since introduction of the original, Versa has been a segment leader in sales and share ? something we expect to continue with this new generation design," said Castignetti. "Its look, quality feel, performance and standard equipment present an exceptionally high standard for a vehicle with a $10,990 starting M.S.R.P."

The Versa Sedan's new exterior design is also a departure from most current compact sedans, offering a refreshing design character that is both sophisticated and highly aerodynamic. The designers gave the exterior shape a strong sense of volume, with a wide shoulder width and a smooth silhouette. In front, Versa Sedan features Nissan's new signature sedan grille design and jewel-like headlights. The front end blends smoothly into the cabin, which offers flowing curves, while design elements such as the shape of the trunklid help give the new Versa Sedan excellent aerodynamics, including a low coefficient of drag of just 0.31.

In addition, to help ensure superb functionality, fresh ideas were addressed in the initial stage between the designers and the engineering team. For example, the indented line in the middle of the Versa Sedan's sweeping roofline is not just a design feature, but a functional innovation that helps reduce the amplitude of the roof panel vibrations in order to create a quieter cabin interior without the use of reinforcement devices called "mass bumpers."

"Design and engineering came together in an extraordinary collaboration to create a level of sophistication that you not only see but also feel," adds Castignetti. "It helps provide a sense of 'modern value' that goes far beyond the mere purchase price, much like you expect from larger, more expensive sedans."

Other exterior features include a fixed roof antenna, body-color front and rear fascias and available chrome-accented grille, blacked-out B-pillar, chrome door handles and front fog lights.

The 2012 Versa Sedan is offered in eight exterior colors, including Metallic Blue, Blue Onyx, Super Black, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Gray, Red Brick, Fresh Powder and Titanium ? which has previously been reserved for the Nissan GT-R among Nissan models.

Next-Generation Efficiency and an All-New V Platform
One of the biggest challenges in designing a compact sedan, of course, is where to put everything ? people, cargo, engine, transmission and other mechanical components. Often the solution is to gather a fraction of an inch here, a fraction there and hope they add up to a usable benefit. For the new Versa Sedan, the approach was a little more radical ? create a totally new global platform and drivetrain, reducing the size of engine and transmission, reducing the number of component parts and reducing platform weight.

"It's unusual to develop a totally new platform for a vehicle in only its second generation, yet when driven by a culture of innovation, such investments are easy to make," explains Castignetti.

The 2012 Versa Sedan's all-new front-wheel drive global "V" platform, designated "V" for Versatile, utilizes nearly 20 percent fewer platform components and weighs around 150 pounds less than the previous "B" platform. While retaining the same 102.4-inch wheelbase and 66.7-inch width as the previous generation Versa Sedan, the new model is 1.2 inches lower in height (59.6 inches) and 0.6 inches shorter in overall length (175.4 inches). The biggest dimensional gain, however, is in the visible gain in trunk length ? provided by a more compact engine/transmission design that allows for a 2.7-inch increase in rear overhang (the distance from the center of the rear tire to the rear bumper).

"The new Versa Sedan proves that when it comes to packaging and aerodynamic efficiency, not all small sedans are created equal," says Castignetti. "The same can be said of the engine, which beautifully balances excellent environmental performance, responsive power and smooth, quiet operation."

The second-generation 1.6-liter HR16DE 4-cylinder engine includes a range of cutting-edge technologies, making it one of the most advanced powerplants in class. For example, while the average engine uses only one injector per cylinder to inject fuel, the new Versa Sedan engine is equipped with two streamlined injectors mounted near the inlet valve for each cylinder. This dual injector system allows a wider injection of fuel, with the smaller nozzles delivering a finer spray (approximately 57 percent finer than the previous generation single injector design's particle size) to help achieve stable combustion.

The new compact, lighter weight engine also utilizes a twin Continuously Variable Timing Control (CVTC) system mounted on both intake and exhaust ports (versus conventional CVTC systems which are mounted only on the intake port), similar to the system used on the flagship Nissan Maxima. Using a CVTC on the outlet port increases thermal efficiency, decreases inhalation resistance and offers an approximate four percent improvement in fuel efficiency. Other enhancements include the addition of a piston oiling jet, tuning of the piston top shape and expansion of the exhaust manifold diameter.

"To incorporate the new dual injector system into an entry-level vehicle is very fitting of Nissan's corporate philosophy of 'innovation for all' ? bring advanced technology to high volume segments rather than saving them only for high-end machines," says Castignetti. "The new dual injector system also uses around half the amount of rare metals in the catalyzer by reducing the amount of unburned fuel and hydrocarbon emissions."

The new 1.6-liter engine is rated at 109 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 107 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm.

The Versa Sedan is available with a 5-speed manual transmission (1.6 S model only) and with a next-generation Xtronic CVT™ transmission. The CVT allows continuous change of the transmission gear ratio by connecting the two pulleys with a metallic belt and changing their diameter by using hydraulic pressure. The new CVT design adds an auxiliary gearbox using planetary gearing, helping improve efficiency.

The CVT also features a transmission ratio of 7.3:1, which is broader than those of conventional CVTs and even typical 7-speed automatic transmissions. Friction is reduced by about 30 percent, weight by about 13 percent and overall size by about 10 percent versus the previous Versa Sedan CVT design.

Versa also offers P185/65R15 all-season tires with available 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

"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 helps improve fuel economy 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."

Fuel economy for the 2012 Versa Sedan is estimated at 30 mpg City, 38 mpg Highway and 33 mpg Combined with the CVT transmission (27/36/30 mpg with the 5-speed manual transmission).

All 2012 Versa Sedans are equipped with an independent MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension, with front and rear stabilizer bars. Other standard equipment includes Electric Power Steering and power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) is also standard on all Versa Sedan models.

In addition, the new Versa will be the first Nissan model in the United States branded with the PUREDRIVE™ designation. PUREDRIVE will be used on models utilizing Nissan's most advanced technologies to promote eco-friendly driving and lower CO2 emissions*.

Standard safety features found on every 2012 Versa Sedan include 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), seat-mounted driver and front passenger side-impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain side-impact air bags for front and rear outboard occupant head protection.

Additional safety features include standard LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system, child safety rear door locks, child seat upper tether anchors and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).

Summer 2011 On-Sale Date
The all-new 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan will be available in three well-equipped models when it goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early August 2011 ? 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).

Along with the 1.6 S model's many standard features, the 1.6 SV adds cruise control, Fine Vision instrumentation, chrome grille accents, body-color dual power remote-controlled sideview mirrors, upgraded cloth seats, power windows and more.

Versa Sedan 1.6 SL models add 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, fog lights, variable intermittent wipers, chromed inside door handles, 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, steering wheel audio controls, USB/iPod® connectivity, upgraded audio system, door-linked map lights and more.

Just three options packages are offered: the Cruise Control Package (1.6 S CVT only); the SV Convenience Package (1.6 SV only) with Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, upgraded audio, iPod® control, map light and front passenger vanity mirror. The SL Tech Package (1.6 SL only) adds the Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and 5-inch color touch-screen display and XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately).

The 2012 Versa Sedan will be manufactured at Nissan's Aguascalientes, Mexico assembly plant that also builds Nissan Sentra models for the United States market.

"This all-new Versa Sedan is a total value proposition," concludes Castignetti. "The Big Small Car is bringing Innovation Within Reach to an eagerly awaiting audience

2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback Continues to Offer High Value and High MPG, Along With Fun-to-Drive Performance

While the Nissan Versa Sedan enters the 2012 model year with an exciting, all-new design (please see nissannews.com for full details), the Versa Hatchback continues with its popular first-generation design, featuring one of the highest standard horsepower/torque ratings and one of the largest interiors in the entry-level segment.

For 2012, the Versa Hatchback is offered in 1.8 S and 1.8 SL models, each equipped with a 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine. The Versa Hatchback S is available with a choice of 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, while the Hatchback 1.8 SL is offered exclusively with Nissan's advanced Xtronic CVT® transmission.

Refinements for the 2012 model year include the addition of the previous Premium Package content (Nissan Intelligent Key®, leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels) as standard equipment on the SL model and four new packages for the S model ? Convenience Package, 15-inch Aluminum-Alloy Wheels, "Special Edition" Package and Nissan Navigation Package. Also, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, aluminum appearance kickplates and illuminated visor vanity mirrors are now standard on SL models, and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is standard on all models (previously SL only).

"The Versa Hatchback again provides a great combination of roominess, style, performance, value and safety ? all in a high quality, low cost of ownership package," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. "With its range of available features such as Nissan Navigation System, Nissan Intelligent Key® and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Versa is not your typical entry-level vehicle. It's a great choice for buyers looking for big enjoyment in a compact hatchback."

Distinctive Styling, Responsive Performance
The 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback's crisp, youthful body form and long roofline suggest both the roominess inside and Versa's performance capabilities. Its long 102.4-inch wheelbase and short front and rear overhangs create a sporty dynamic look. The Versa Hatchback exterior also features body-color front and rear bumpers and body-color dual remote-controlled outside mirrors. Versa Hatchback has a coefficient of drag of 0.31. Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL models add a higher level of performance styling with a roof-mounted rear spoiler, lower body side sill extensions, unique front and rear fascia and standard fog lights.

The 2012 Versa Hatchback is available in nine exterior colors: Red Alert, Metallic Blue, Blue Onyx, Espresso Black, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Gray, Super Black, Fresh Powder and Arctic Blue.

Every 2012 Versa Hatchback comes equipped with a standard 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine rated at 122 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. Three transmissions are offered ? a 6-speed manual (1.8 S), an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic with overdrive (optional 1.8 S), and Xtronic CVT™ transmission (standard on 1.8 SL).

Fuel economy for the 2012 Versa Hatchback is rated at 28 mpg City/34 mpg Highway with the Continuously Variable Transmission; 24 mpg City/32 mpg highway with the 4-speed automatic transmission; and 26 mpg City/31 mpg Highway with the 6-speed manual transmission.

All 2012 Versa Hatchbacks are equipped with an independent MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension, with front and rear stabilizer bars. Other standard equipment includes Electric Power Steering and power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is also standard.

Versa Hatchback 1.8 S models feature 15-inch styled steel wheels with covers and P185/65HR15 Continental all-season tires. Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL models offer standard 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with Continental P195/55R16 all-season tires, while 6-spoke 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are optional on 1.8 S models equipped with the 4-speed automatic transmission.

A Comfortable, Flexible Interior
In Versa, Nissan's design and engineering teams found a way to fit a large interior in a compact car. Interior length, front to back, is more than six feet, while the 60/40 split fold-down rear bench and large cargo area add versatility for owners with highly active lives.

Along with a spacious cabin, Versa offers a clean, simple, high-quality interior design and excellent craftsmanship. Comfort is a priority for all passengers. 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. Versa gauges feature an attractive "dimensional" appearance and white illumination. Interior illumination is a welcoming reddish orange color. The interior design also integrates convenient storage solutions, including in the center console, glove compartment, front doors and an in-dash storage compartment.

The 2012 Versa Hatchback comes with a long list of available technology, including available Nissan Intelligent Key®, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® Real-Time Traffic Information (XM® subscription required, sold separately).

Standard Safety Features
Safety features include 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), and standard roof-mounted curtain side-impact air bags for front and rear outboard occupant head protection.

Additional safety features include standard LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system, child safety rear door locks, child seat upper tether anchors, front seat Active Head Restraints, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (VDC) and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Models, Options and Manufacturing
The 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback is offered in 1.8 S and 1.8 SL models. Versa 1.8 S includes standard 4-speaker 90-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary audio input jack, power windows and door locks, power rear hatch release, ABS and more. Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL models include sport front and rear fascias, rear decklid spoiler, fog lights, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, woven cloth seats, front center armrest with soft pad, Nissan Intelligent Key®, Interface System for iPod®, tonneau cover and much more.

Available options packages include the Plus Package, with Remote Keyless Entry and cruise control; 15-inch Alloy Wheels; the Convenience Package, with Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, audio system with iPod® control, steering wheel audio and Bluetooth® switches, leather-wrapped steering wheel, map lights with sunglass holder, fabric headliner and visors, and tonneau cover; and the S Navigation and SL Navigation Packages. The Special Edition Package includes the contents of the Plus Package, 15-inch Alloy Wheels and Convenience Package, along with a "Special Edition" badge.

The 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback is manufactured at Nissan's Aguascalientes and Cuervanaca, Mexico assembly plants.