The Enduring Legacy: Versa's New Chapter Abroad
Mexico's Aguascalientes Plant Becomes the Hub for the New Versa
Production of the latest Nissan Versa model has officially commenced at the Aguascalientes A1 facility in Mexico. This marks a new phase for the popular affordable sedan, which will now primarily cater to the Latin American region. Nissan ceased manufacturing the Versa for the U.S. market in December 2025, indicating a shift in its North American product lineup.
U.S. Market Shifts Focus to Sentra and Altima as Versa Departs
With the Versa's exit, the Nissan Sentra is poised to become the new entry-level sedan offering in the United States. Furthermore, the aging Altima is scheduled for discontinuation by the summer of 2027, which will leave the Sentra as the sole sedan model in Nissan's North American portfolio. In contrast, the updated Versa will continue to serve as an accessible sedan option in countries like Brazil and Mexico, featuring a contemporary design.
First Glimpse: Versa's Updated Aesthetics Revealed
Early images showcase the new Versa's front-end design, which adopts a layered configuration and distinct split headlights, presenting a notably intricate look. While the rear visuals have not been officially released, prior leaks from a 2025 photoshoot suggest an evolutionary design for the taillights, complemented by a black plastic trim on the trunk lid and prominent Versa badging.
Evolutionary Design: Retaining Familiarity with New Enhancements
The 2027 Versa appears to maintain a largely similar silhouette to its predecessor, suggesting an evolutionary rather than revolutionary design approach. Notable exterior updates include new 17-inch wheels. However, elements such as the doors and greenhouse seem to be carried over from the previous generation, which first appeared in 2019 and received a mid-cycle refresh four years later. Details regarding the interior remain undisclosed, but it is anticipated to share components with the new Kait subcompact crossover.
Powertrain Speculations: A Look Under the Hood
Nissan has yet to release specific details about the new Versa's powertrain. However, drawing parallels with the Latin American market's Kait subcompact crossover, it is plausible that the Versa will feature a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter gasoline engine. This engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), delivers 113 horsepower and 110 lb-ft (149 Nm) of torque to the front wheels. The absence of a manual transmission option in the Kait hints that the new Versa might also forgo a manual gearbox.
The Enduring Demand for Affordable Vehicles Amid Rising Prices
Despite the Versa's departure from the U.S., the ongoing need for affordable vehicles remains significant. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average transaction price for a new car reached a record $50,326 in December 2025, with the average Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) also hitting an all-time high of $52,627. In this climate, models like the Sentra, starting at $23,645 (including destination charges), represent a more accessible option for consumers.