2014 Nissan Versa Note SV

By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com

The Nissan Versa, which has been the longtime sales and share leader in the competitive United States entry level segment, gets a dramatic new look with the launch of the all new 2014 Nissan Versa Note.

A bold new look, the 2014 Nissan Versa Note’s sculpted, modern styling is designed to accomplish two things, provide enhanced aerodynamics to help improve fuel economy and to stand out from the crowd of entry level competitors.

Along with its steeply sloped front windshield and deeply sculpted doors, Versa Note features a dramatic character line called the squash line. Inspired by the international sport of squash, the line follows the trajectory of a squash ball hitting a wall, bouncing on the court floor and returning to the player. This rebound path projects the dynamic energy of Versa Note in both look and driving feel.

The roomy five passengers Versa Note interior provides a spacious, best in class total interior volume of 112.9 cubic feet and ample cargo space of 18.8 cubic feet. Cargo area liftover height has been reduced by 1.7 inches for easier loading and unloading of heavy or bulky objects.

Interior versatility is further enhanced through use of an available Divide-N-Hide Adjustable Floor. With the standard 60/40-split fold down rear seat folded down, a large flat cargo area is created. Lifting up the cargo floor board reveals a hidden area underneath to keep valuables out of sight. When more space is needed for carrying taller or bulkier items, lowering the floor board creates a deeper cargo well. The floor board is designed to stay in the vehicle yet is easily removed if desired. It’s a simple solution to balance the need for a flat load floor or maximum cargo capacity or security.

The interior is also a perfect match for the stylish Versa Note exterior. The long list of features starts with the standard cloth seating, 4 way adjustable front bucket seats or 6 way seats SV model, Fine Vision instrumentation, AM/FM/CD/Aux-in audio system with 4 speakers, 12 volt power outlet, front door pockets with bottle holders, dual front and rear cup holders, front seatback pockets and many more amenities.

Among the new Versa Note’s unexpected and affordable technology is the class exclusive availability of Nissan’s advanced Around View Monitor. The system utilizes four small super wide angle cameras mounted on the front, side and rear of the vehicle to provide a virtual 360° view of objects around the vehicle, with selectable split screen close ups of the front, rear and curb views, helping the driver maneuver the car into tight spots. The Around View Monitor is offered as part of the SL Tech Package.

Also available as part of the SL Tech Package is the advanced NissanConnect with Navigation System with NavTraffic and NavWeather real-time advisories. The system includes a 5.8-inch color touch screen display, Hands Free Text Messaging Assistant, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth, Pandora radio capability, POIs powered by Google and Google Send-to-Car.

Anchoring the front-wheel drive Versa Note is a 1.6-liter HR16DE 4-cylinder engine rated at 109 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 107 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine includes a range of cutting edge technologies, including a dual fuel injector system that allows a wider injection of fuel, with the smaller nozzles delivering a spray approximately 57 percent finer than the previous generation single injector design’s particle size to help achieve more complete combustion.

The 2014 Versa Note is offered with a choice of two transmissions a 5-speed manual transmission S model only or a next-generation Xtronic CVT transmission. The CVT allows continuous change of the transmission gear ratio by connecting the two pulleys with a metallic belt and changing their diameter by using hydraulic pressure.

In addition to the advanced engine and transmission designs, excellent everyday drivability is provided by an independent strut front suspension with stabilizer bar, torsion beam rear axle with integrated stabilizer bar, and electric power steering. Braking is provided by standard power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes with standard Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake force Distribution and Brake Assist.

Standard safety and security systems include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System, front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags, and roof mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Traction Control System and Tire Pressure Monitoring System with available Easy-Fill Tire Alert.

The all new 2014 Versa Note is offered in S, S Plus and SV grade levels with a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $13,990.00. The one I drove SV model included the SL and Technology packages, Splash Guards, Carpeted Floor, Cargo Mats, Rear Cargo Cover and Rear spoiler and it came in at $20,015.00 including destination charge. The EPA fuel economy estimates 31 MPG City and 40 MPG Highway.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com

Posted in CAR REVIEWS, Nissan.

Emilio Lezcano

Journalist - Editor - Photographer
Professional Race Car Driver

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