Nissan Unveils New Versa Model, But It Won't Reach US Shores

• Nissan discontinued the Versa in the US market recently.
• The upcoming generation is currently being manufactured in Mexico.
• The 2027 Versa is expected to be available exclusively in Latin American countries.

Nissan ended production of the Versa for the United States in December 2025, yet the compact sedan remains alive in other parts of the world. The newest iteration quietly began production at Nissan’s Aguascalientes A1 facility in Mexico, marking its official introduction.

It appears the 2027 Versa will be limited to Latin American markets, making the Sentra Nissan’s entry-level sedan for the US. Meanwhile, the Altima will stay on sale in North America until mid-2027, after which the Sentra will stand as the only sedan in Nissan's lineup there. In countries like Mexico and Brazil, the new Versa will take its place as the affordable option, sporting a refreshed exterior design.

Before Nissan’s formal reveal, only a few images of the front end are available. The new front fascia features a layered design with split headlights, which some might find busier compared to the previous model. Although official photos haven't shown the rear, leaked images from a late 2025 shoot suggest a subtle update with redesigned taillights, black trim on the trunk, and prominent Versa badging.

While the silhouette hasn’t changed much, the 2027 Versa sports new 17-inch wheels. The doors and window line seem to carry over from the 2019 model, which was refreshed in 2023. Interior details remain under wraps but may share components with Nissan’s Kait subcompact crossover.

Nissan has yet to disclose the powertrain specifics. The Kait features a straightforward 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine paired with a CVT, delivering 113 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. No manual option is offered in the Kait, hinting the Versa might follow suit, though this remains unconfirmed.

Despite the exterior styling taking a step back in some opinions, it’s encouraging to see Nissan continuing the Versa line for another generation. It’s unfortunate, however, that the model won’t return to the US market where affordable sedans under $20,000 have become scarce since the old Versa’s exit.

There remains a significant demand for budget-friendly vehicles, especially as the average new car price hit an all-time high of $50,326 in December 2025, according to Kelley Blue Book. The average MSRP also soared to $52,627. Fortunately, the Sentra remains relatively accessible, starting at $23,645 including destination fees.