Nissan Makes Versa the Cheapest Car in the U.S. at $9990

Nissan has just announced a new version of its entry level Versa sedan today, along with an MSRP that will make that car the lowest priced in the country—$9990 before destination and handling ($10,685 after).

The new base model Versa replaces the standard 1.8-liter four with a 1.6-liter unit, an engine that produces 107 horsepower and can deliver 34 miles per gallon on the highway (26 city) when paired with the standard five-speed manual transmission. The optional four-speed automatic delivers a slightly lower 26/33 mpg rating.

As you might expect, Nissan has decontented the Versa somewhat to be able to hit that magical four-digit price tag, though the company has yet to detail what, exactly, will come standard on the least expensive car in the U.S. The company does boast that Versa now combines “the low price of a used car with the dependability, high quality and full factory warranty of every new Nissan.” A powerful argument in difficult financial times. Read the full press release below.

Nissan Announces Lowest-Priced New Car in the U.S.*

- New, 2009 Versa Sedan 1.6 Features $,9,990 MSRP, Excellent Fuel Economy, Design, Quality and Reliability; Available at Dealers November 18 -

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (October 31, 2008) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced a new 2009 Nissan Versa Sedan 1.6 model, which features a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $9,990* (excluding Destination and Handling). The new Versa focuses squarely on value and fuel economy, with its standard 107-horsepower DOHC 16-valve 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivering responsive performance and a 34 mpg highway fuel economy rating (with the 5-speed manual transmission).

The Versa Sedan 1.6 goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide beginning November 18, 2008.

"Starting under $10,000, this new Versa Sedan 1.6 has the lowest new-car MSRP in the United States," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "It combines the low price of a used car with the dependability, high quality and full factory warranty of every new Nissan. It's our way of saying that in tough economic times, Nissan is here to help."

Since its introduction in 2006, Nissan Versa has enjoyed strong appeal in the marketplace among buyers seeking fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance or roominess. Versa offers one of the highest standard horsepower/torque ratings and the largest interior in the entry-level segment – along with excellent quality, reliability and durability.

The new high-value Versa Sedan 1.6 model features a smaller displacement 1.6-liter engine (versus the standard 1.8-liter), standard 5-speed manual transmission and simplified content. It is also available with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg city/34 mpg highway with the 5-speed manual and 26 mpg city/33 mpg highway with the 4-speed automatic.

"The new Versa Sedan 1.6 is another way in which Nissan is taking a leadership role in reassuring consumers that now is a great time to consider a new car," said Carolin.

* Based on Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $9,990 for the new, 2009 model year Versa 1.6 Sedan. Claim based on competitive MSRP's in the Lower-Small segment for new, model year 2009 vehicles. MSRP excludes applicable tax, title and license fees. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to change without notice. Destination and Handling $695.

Nissan Announces New Consumer Value Opportunities

– Comprehensive Program is Designed to Reassure Budget-Conscious Shoppers; Includes 0% Financing on Key Models and Competitive Leasing Programs –

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (October 31, 2008) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced a new Consumer Value Program designed to let consumers know that Nissan offers a variety of options in today's marketplace. The program includes:

* Zero-percent financing on five Nissan models*
* Competitive leases, including a $199/month lease on the Altima and Rogue**
* A national advertising campaign supporting the program, which utilizes the theme "Nissan Delivers," will launch nationally on Nov. 4th.

"We know that many consumers have done their research, have made the decision to buy a new vehicle, but are concerned about financing and finding the best value," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "We want to let them know that if they need a dependable, high-quality, high-value new car, Nissan can help them out right now – with great leases and great financing options."

The zero-percent financing program includes the popular Nissan Murano, Sentra, Altima, Versa and Rogue.

"The 'Nissan Delivers' program makes good sense for consumers who now can take advantage of zero-percent financing or attractive leases on a number of great Nissan vehicles," said Carolin.

The Nissan Delivers program will feature a $199/month, limited-time lease offer on the 2009 Nissan Altima Sedan and Nissan Rogue crossover SUV.

*0% APR for 36 months. For well-qualified buyers. Offers end 11/30/08.

**Rogue: $2,754 initial payment required at consummation (includes $2,555 down payment and $199 first month payment). 2009 Rogue S AWD w/ Splash and Mats subject to availability to well qualified lessees through Nissan-Infiniti LT. Leases are subject to credit approval. MSRP of $22,505 includes a destination charge of $695 and excludes tax, title, and license. See your local Nissan dealer for more details.

**Altima: $2,759 initial payment required at consummation (includes $2,560 down payment and $199 first month payment). 2009 Altima 2.5 S with Xtronic CVT, splash guards, and floor mats is subject to availability to well qualified lessees through Nissan-Infiniti LT. Leases are subject to credit approval. MSRP of $22,545 includes a destination charge of $695 and excludes tax, title, and license. See your local Nissan dealer for more details.