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Next-Generation Efficiency and an All-New V Platform

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

Versa also offers low rolling resistance 185/65 R15 all-season tires with available 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

Fuel economy for the 2012 Versa Sedan is estimated at 30 mpg City, 37 mpg Highway and 33 mpg Combined with the CVT transmission (27/36/30 mpg with the 5-speed manual transmission) (preliminary estimates).

Safety

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.

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 summer 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 lights 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.

Nissan Versa: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications