2012 Nissan Versa Release Date
Versa has been sold in the North American markets since 2006 and everyone has gotten used to the look of the car, which some consider rather strange. Sales of the Versa have always been better than expected, however, so why Nissan is making such a radical change for 2012 is anybody’s guess, as is the exact release date.
A New Body Style
First and foremost, the 2012 model is a sedan only, and the tall cabin of the hatchback has been eliminated; the Versa will have a very sleek outward appearance that at first will mystify onlookers. The design is very sporty, if anything resembling a concept version of a future Toyota Corolla. Many experts had envisioned this look as the eventual replacement for the Sentra model, and surprise is being felt as the Versa name will be retained for this all-new subcompact.
Powertrain for the ’12 Versa
As far as the engine that will come standard and the list of standard interior features, Nissan is keeping that a rather closely guarded secret. The current hatchback has a 122 horsepower 4-cylinder engine and it would seem proper to outfit the 2012 model with the same powertrain, but Nissan may be considering a slightly larger engine, or at least an uplevel trim that offers one.
Safety Features of the Versa
Because it is designed so differently than the current sedan or hatchback, the airbag configuration will undoubtedly change, as the cabin is now of a completely different shape. The 2011 model sedan has six airbags and Brake-Assist combined with Vehicle Dynamic Control. There is no reason to think that Nissan would eliminate these features or change them because this setup is becoming standard on more and more vehicles worldwide, even in the economically priced segment of the industry.
Compared to the Competition
Because of its sporty appearance, the 2012 Versa will have buyers trying to figure out what classification the vehicle belongs in. It is certainly a subcompact, but considering all the changes, the sticker price remains unknown. The 2011 Versa sedan begins at under $10,000, but if the 2012 model is much higher then it means the Versa will be competing directly against the Chevrolet Aveo, Toyota Corolla and possibly the Kia Rio. All have miniscule engines good fuel economy and some notable extras, but the question is whether buyers want a sporty, almost gaudy look in a lower-end vehicle.
