Nissan is lowering the price of its 2016 Versa sedan, which will now start at $11,990 for the fleet-favorite Versa S with a 5-speed manual transmission. The S and SL grade have been reduced by $500.

The 2016 Versa sedan is available in four grades, including S (5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic), S Plus (Xtronic CVT), SV (Xtronic CVT) and SL (Xtronic CVT).

The Versa 5-speed manual is priced at $12,815; the 4-speed automatic is $14,315; the S Plus is $14,815; the SV is $16,355; and the SL is priced at $17,915. Prices include $825 for destination and handling.

The Versa’s standard 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine includes a range of fuel efficiency-enhancing technologies, such as a dual fuel injector system and a twin Continuously Variable valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) mounted on both intake and exhaust camshafts. The engine is rated at 109 horsepower and 107 lb.-ft. of torque.

The available Xtronic continuously variable transmission utilizes an auxiliary gearbox using planetary gearing, which enhances efficiency withD-mode step-shift programming. 

The Versa's fuel economy with the Xtronic transmission is an EPA-rated 31 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 35 mpg combined with an estimated 400-mile driving range. Fuel economy with the 5-speed manual transmission is rated at 27/36/30 mpg and 26/35/30 mpg with the 4-speed automatic transmission.

The Versa sedan received additional enhancements for 2016; the body-color power outside mirrors are now standard on all grade levels, standard rear speakers have been added to Versa Sedan S grade, the SL grade adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel and Cayenne Red and Gun Metallic are now available as interior colors. 

Comfort and convenience features include standard Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System and available Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, RearView Monitor, Nissan Voice Recognition for navigation and audio and Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant.

In 2013, commercial, government and rental fleets added 32,206 Versa sedans, according to Automotive Fleet data.