As the automotive industry shifts towards more premium and high-tech models, affordability in new cars is becoming increasingly elusive. Nissan’s 2025 Versa offers a glimmer of hope for budget-conscious drivers, though with a higher price tag than before. While this price bump may raise eyebrows, the Versa still clings to its status as America's cheapest sedan—a shrinking category in an industry that seems to be phasing out economical subcompact cars. With added features and enhanced value, Nissan hopes to keep the Versa relevant in a market where affordable options are quickly vanishing.
The 2025 Versa now starts at $17,190, reflecting a $1,060 increase over the previous year’s model. Despite this price jump, the Versa remains the most affordable sedan in America, though it temporarily loses its title as the cheapest new car to the 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage, which starts at $16,695. However, this is only a temporary shift, as Mitsubishi has decided not to renew the Mirage for the 2025 model year, positioning the Versa to regain its title as the least expensive new car in the U.S.
Nissan justifies the price increase by introducing new standard features, including LED headlights for both the entry-level S and mid-range SV trims. The 2025 Versa also comes with Nissan Maintenance Care, a new program offering up to three prepaid oil changes within two years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. These additions aim to offer more value for customers despite the price hike.
The flagship trim, Versa SR, is highlighted with premium features that distinguish it from the lower trims. These include a dark chrome grille, 17-inch wheels, black mirrors, and a rear spoiler. Inside, the SR model boasts an 8-inch infotainment screen, four USB ports, a wireless charging pad, heated seats, and a more comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Despite these added features, the powertrain remains consistent across all trims. The Versa is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 154 Nm of torque, with fuel efficiency rated up to 35 mpg. The base model comes with a five-speed manual transmission, while the higher trims are equipped with Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Despite these upgrades, the future of the Nissan Versa seems uncertain. Reports indicate that the 2025 model year may be the last for the Versa, with production likely to cease in April 2025. This coincides with the Mitsubishi Mirage being phased out, raising concerns about the future availability of affordable subcompact cars in the U.S. market. With the impending discontinuation of both the Versa and the Mirage, the outlook for budget-friendly vehicles is becoming increasingly bleak, signaling a potential shift in the automotive landscape.