Japan

The Humble 2015 Nissan Versa SR

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New for 2015, Nissan adds SR style to the humble Versa.

The familiar 5-door hatchback gains 16-inch high contrast alloy wheels as well as sporty fascias at the front and rear, in addition to a unique rear spoiler and front grille. Lower body side skirts and integrated turn signal indicators on the side mirrors are new as well. The face lift continues on the inside where suede-like material with orange trim replaces the cloth from previous models. Two front bucket seats are adjustable six different ways and thirsty travelers needn’t worry as there are bottle holders in the front door pockets. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather, inspired by the 370Z, and a piano-black center stack highlights the newly designed console with silver trim and chrome knobs. A Fine Vision triple-dial gauge and floating trip computer are included.

The optional Convenience Package will net you Nissan’s Divide-N-Hide adjustable floor, offering a near 6-inches of hidden cargo space, and tech enthusiasts will love the NissanConnect system with 5-inch color display, Bluetooth streaming audio and Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant. A USB connection port also accompanies the standard 12-volt power outlet. NissanConnect also offers smart phone integration for Twitter, Facebook, Pandora and iHeartRadio, each controllable from the dashboard display screen.

Fans of Nissan fuel efficiency will not be disappointed as the sporty new look still carries with it an EPA rated 31 mpg around town and 40 mpg on the highway. The 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine is unchanged from previous models and the continuously variable transmission nets 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque according to Edmunds.com.

Safety features include side seat mounted air bags, curtain 1st and 2nd row overhead airbags, and the 4-wheel anti-lock system covers both the front disc and rear drum brakes. As with previous models, the steeply angled hood and windshield make for excellent forward visibility. Blind spots all around the car are kept to a minimum by small side windows just before the side mirrors.

Consistently ranked among the least expensive cars on the market by Autotrader.com, the 2015 Nissan Versa SR is priced competitively in the subcompact category, offering an excellent buy with great features and a whole lot of personality. Coupled with excellent fuel economy and plenty of great NissanConnect options, the Versa SR is a prime target for anyone shopping with a budget but not quite willing to give up the all the bells and whistles.

The Versa comes in Metallic Blue, Red Brick, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Gray, Super Black, Aspen White, Metallic Peacock and Morning Sky Blue.