2013 Nissan Versa
Changes for the 2013 Nissan Versa:
First off, just to be clear, this is the summary for the subcompact 2013 Nissan Versa Sedan; the hatchback version is taking a hiatus for the 2013 selling season, with the all-new 2014 Nissan Versa Note—still a hatchback stepping into its place this fall. Getting back to the least-expensive new car in America, the 2013 Nissan Versa welcomes a traditional four-speed automatic transmission to the lineup this year, joining the standard five-speed manual and available continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The brand also has upgraded some of the packaging for the 2013 Nissan Versa, starting right with the entry model; when configured with a CVT, it gets last year’s Cruise Control Package added to its list of standard equipment, while the SV Convenience Package is enhanced with a 60/40 split rear seat and the SL Tech Package gains a RearView Monitor. In addition, some of the most popular versions of the 2013 Nissan Versa are fine-tuned as follows:
- All models equipped with a CVT benefit from an efficiency-boosting aero upgrade that includes a rear spoiler, low-rolling-resistance tires, a redesigned air-intake guide, and rear-wheel and underbody air deflectors.
- S entry models gain a trunk light and sun-visor extensions.
- The cabin of the 2013 Nissan Sentra SV adds numerous premium appointments.
- Nissan’s Intelligent Key entry/ignition system makes its debut in the 2013 Nissan Sentra SL, along with a key-fob trunk release and a driver’s-side armrest.
Model Lineup:
As readers may have noticed, the 2013 Nissan Versa Sedan comes in three basic flavors. The most basic, the 2013 Nissan Versa S, is a fairly Spartan affair, but it does include air conditioning, halogen headlights, a two-speaker AM/FM/CD sound system with auxiliary input jack, and black exterior accents for its door handles, grille and manual outside mirrors.
For a more refined appearance, the 2013 Nissan Versa SV wears body-color mirror caps, set off by a chrome grille and door handles, while the automaker’s Fine Vision electroluminescent gauge cluster adds a modern look to the car’s interior. The cabin also welcomes a more premium material for its cloth seats and door trim, as well as silver and chrome accents for the door handles, parking brake, shift knob and steering wheel, and it features two more audio speakers. Power door locks/windows/exterior mirrors, along with remote entry, provide the finishing touches here.
The 2013 Nissan Versa SL extends the standard features list with fog lights, Bluetooth hands-free-calling technology, Intelligent Key access with push-button start, a premium audio system with MP3/WMA playback, iPod interface and steering-wheel-mounted control. A Nissan navigation system, with a 5-inch color touchscreen, is available on the 2013 Nissan Versa SL as part of the Tech Package, which also integrates a rear-view camera system.
Engines and Transmissions:
All players on the roster for the 2013 Nissan Versa rely on a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine, with continuously variable valve timing, that produces 109 hp and 107 lb.-ft. of torque. In the S models, that powerplant can be mated with a five-speed manual transmission, a traditional four-speed automatic transmission, or one of Nissan’s Xtronic CVTs; the 2013 Nissan Versa SL and SV can only be ordered with the CVT.
Fuel Economy Ratings:
Thanks to those aerodynamic enhancements, the 2013 Nissan Versa can reach the magic 40 mpg mark in highway driving with a CVT, posting an overall EPA line of 31 mpg city/40 mpg highway/35 mpg combined. The five-speed DIY transmission produces ratings of 27 mpg city/36 mpg highway/30 mpg combined, while the four-speed automatic is good for grades of 26 mpg city/35 mpg highway/30 mpg combined.
Safety Ratings:
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that the 2013 Nissan Versa has been named a Top Safety Pick for the year, after realizing the highest available in grades in testing for occupant protection during front, rear, side and rollover accidents. By receiving 3 stars for frontal-crash protection from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, as well as 4 stars for side and rollover protection, the 2013 Nissan Versa was rated as a 4-star overall performer in the New Car Assessment Program.
Technology Highlights:
Navigation, a rear-view monitor, Bluetooth phone technology, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and NavTraffic, a tire-pressure-monitoring system and USB connectivity are among the key tech features offered in the 2013 Nissan Versa.
