New 2014 Nissan Versa Note: What’s Under the Hood
The outgoing Versa Hatchback has a 122-horsepower, 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine generating 127 lb.-ft. of torque. It gets 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway when paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The redesigned 2014 Nissan Versa Note is equipped with a smaller, less powerful 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, the same one installed in the Versa Sedan. It generates 109 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 107 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. A 5-speed manual gearbox is standard for the base model, while other Versa Notes get a CVT.
The result of this smaller and less powerful engine, combined with a 0.298 coefficient of drag and active grille shutters that help streamline airflow over the car, is that the new Versa Note is expected to get 31 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway when equipped with the CVT.
All models with a CVT have low rolling-resistance tires, mounted to either 15-inch steel wheels or optional 16-inch aluminum wheels. Additionally, the new Nissan Versa Note is equipped with electric steering, an independent front suspension, a torsion beam rear suspension, and front disc/rear drum anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.