The 2020 Nissan Versa was unveiled ahead of its debut at the 2019 New York Auto Show with an all-new exterior design, a more modern interior and, thanks to Nissan’s unwillingness to participate in the passenger car segments, it was will not direct to Australia.
Essentially a new version of the Almera sedan, briefly sold in Australia from 2012 to 2013, the new Versa sedan will be one of the cheapest new cars in North America when it goes on sale later in 2019.
Featuring the same four-cylinder transmissions as before, the new Versa focuses on new styling and new technology, rather than a new engine.
And what a styling transformation the Versa is, too. No longer looking like an afterthought booted version of the Micra hatchback, the Versa is a modern looking sedan with angular headlights, funky alloy rims and wide taillights to give it a more planted look than before.
According to the company, the Versa looks longer, wider and lower than the previous model, and is powered only by a 91 kW / 155 Nm four-cylinder gasoline engine that matches a five-speed manual transmission. or automatic CVT.
Standard equipment has seen a big improvement, with the Versa offering standard front and rear AEB, lane departure warning and automatic high beams.
Also on the safety front, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control and Driver Attention Alert will be available.
Available technology includes LED lighting, keyless entry with push-button start, partially digital driver display, air conditioning, 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrated satellite navigation and heated front seats.
While the Versa’s new appearance in a largely run-down segment would likely win it friends in Australia, Nissan Australia told local media it won’t be sold locally.