In the highly competitive sub-compact segment, automakers have been riding on a growing trend to offer more, but for less. Likely initiated by Korean carmakers Hyundai and Kia, who consistently have been able to offer more amenities for less than their competition, all other automakers have come to realize that consumers are now conditioned to expect plenty of bang for their entry-level buck.
The end result is that with every new re-design in the sub-compact segment, automakers are finding new ways to offer more without having to increase pricing, and in many cases they are even bringing pricing down. Such is the case with the launch of the all new, 3rd generation Nissan Versa hatchback. After being absent for the 2013 model year, Nissan has re-designed their popular hatchback, and with the re-design also comes a new moniker. For 2014, the new hatchback will be known as the Nissan Versa Note and along with the new name, comes with it the burden of expectation as one of Nissan Motor Companies top selling vehicles.
In 2012, the Nissan Versa accounted for almost 30% of Nissan’s car sales in Canada, according to sales figures released by Nissan Canada. With a new design, that includes available options that once were the exclusive domain of mid-sized cars and above, more drive train options and best of all, lower prices there certainly has been a fair amount of hope and expectations riding on this new vehicle from the automaker.
Last week I travelled with Nissan Canada to Montreal, Quebec for the Canadian Media launch of the Versa Note, and with it I had my first chance to get behind the wheel. The following video report summarizes my experience and my 1st impressions as part of another Enviro Dad Test Drive.
With the launch of the 2014 Versa Note, it seems clear to me that Nissan has it’s sights set on achieving top performer status in the sub-compact category. That position, currently held by the Hyundai Accent through the first six months of 2013 will be tough to achieve.
While there were some minor aspects about the Versa Note that I didn’t like, such as the far-too-small centre console monitor, and the general plastic interior that is inherent with all sub compacts, I generally came away impressed from my short experience with the car. The combination of an attractive and functional design, a host of consumer-friendly options and a price point as much as 10% below the 2012 version, Nissan is offering consumers a sub-compact car that can easily stand up to anyone else in it’s class. Now it’s up to consumers to take their turn and see if the Versa Note becomes all that Nissan wants it to be.
BY THE NUMBERS (Out of 10)
LOOK/DESIGN:
EXTERIOR – 9.0
INTERIOR – 8.5
DRIVE – 8.0
THE GREEN FACTOR – 9.0
THE FAMILY FACTOR – 8.0
TECHIE STUFF – 9.0
VALUE – 9.5
(MSRP as Tested
SL CVT w/ Tech – $19,018
OVERALL SCORE – 8.5
NOTE: All travel and accomodations for this Test Drive were provided by the automaker.
I like this car!2 issue! Front grille doesn’t match the color of the car (aside from charcoal gray)and the gas pedal doesn’t have enough progressive feeling from non touching it to almost midway.the first half after all is intended for fuel economy.(base model comment)aside from this?love the car ! As usual this will sell well in canada !
Thanks for the comment. I agree it will be a strong seller for Nissan. Cheers!