2015 Nissan Versa Note at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show
Competes with: Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit
Looks like: The Versa Note you know, now with a sport-themed SR trim level
Drivetrain: 109-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder with five-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission; front-wheel drive
Hits dealerships: Spring 2014
Nissan’s value-oriented four-door hatchback gains two new trim levels for the 2015 model year: the performance-themed SR, which makes its debut at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show, and a top-of-the-line SL version. In addition to the new SR and SL trims, all Versa Notes gain standard Bluetooth connectivity for 2015.
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Pricing hasn’t been announced, but expect the new trims to be priced higher than the 2014 Versa Note SV, which starts at $16,800 including destination. The 2015 Versa Note hits dealerships in spring 2014.
Exterior
The new Versa Note SR gets a number of unique styling cues including a different grille, smoked headlights and fog lights with black and chrome trim. There’s also a new rear spoiler, 16-inch aluminum wheels with all-season tires and SR badges.
Interior
The SR’s cabin gains a number of cosmetic changes, too, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel that Nissan says is inspired by the automaker’s 370Z sports car, suedelike seats with orange accents, and piano-black and silver-colored trim. Standard SR features include six-way adjustable front seats and a CD stereo with an MP3 jack.
Nissan previously offered an SL Package for the 2014 Versa Note, but the new SL trim makes a number of otherwise-optional features standard. They include a 5-inch color screen, a backup camera, Bluetooth streaming audio, USB connectivity for portable devices, satellite radio, a height-adjustable cargo floor and NissanConnect Apps. NissanConnect Apps integrates smartphone-based apps like Facebook, Twitter and Pandora. Also standard are heated front seats, push-button start and Nissan’s Easy-Fill Tire Alert system.
Under the Hood
Despite the new SR trim level’s sport-themed appearance it uses the same engine as all the other Versa Note models: a 109-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder. Most versions of the hatchback team with a continuously variable automatic transmission, and with the CVT the Versa Note gets an EPA-estimated 31/40/35 mpg city/highway/combined.
Safety Features
Standard features include antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, traction control, side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags.
