Nissan used its state-of the-art test center and proving grounds in Farmington Hills, Mich., as the location to unveil its all-new entry level model, the 2007 Nissan Versa. Designed to be a showcase for versatility, thus the name Versa, this is the first joint-platform effort to be used by Nissan and its corporate parent, Renault, worldwide. The Versa will be badged the Tiida in all other markets, including Mexico, and will be revealed to the public at the 2006 North American International Auto Show.

Attractively designed with cues that mirror Nissan’s popular Murano SUV, the 2007 Versa has a large interior with more than six feet of length inside the cockpit, raised seating for added comfort and visibility, and impressive leg and knee room. Powered by a newly developed, environmentally-friendly, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, the Versa is available with a choice of three transmissions, including a fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT). Also of note is the Versa’s .31 co-efficient of aerodynamic drag and Nissan’s use of premium materials in this value-priced model.

Two versions of the 2007 Nissan Versa have been crafted for the U.S. and Canadian markets. A hatchback will lead the charge in May, 2006, starting at approximately $12,000, perfectly priced to attract sales in the entry-level swath of the market. A sedan version will follow. Both are quite roomy, beating rivals in the entry-compact class, and when combined with cutting-edge design and what appear to be quality materials in a package that gets a combined 38 mpg, the Versa hatch and sedan should prove popular entries when they arrive next year.