Introduction
The new 2014 Nissan Versa Note and the existing
Nissan Versa Sedan share a nameplate and powertrain, but they are different models. The Versa Sedan is a surprisingly spacious entry-level 4-door model, while the new 2014 Versa Note is a 5-door hatchback based on a global vehicle that Nissan calls the Note in other world markets.
Exterior Features
Nissan describes the Versa Note's styling as "sporty" and "energetic," calling attention to its long wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs, and steep windshield angle. But what defines the Note's design more than anything is the "squash line" stamped into the side doors.
The 2014 Nissan Versa Note will be offered in 1.6 S, 1.6 S Plus, and 1.6 SV trim levels when it goes on sale in the summer of 2013. Active grille shutters are standard to help achieve a 0.298 coefficient of drag, and most versions of the Versa Note will be equipped with low-rolling-resistance tires to help improve fuel economy. The Versa Note 1.6 S comes standard with 15-inch steel wheels.
Interior Features
The 2014 Nissan Versa Note seats 5 passengers and offers a standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat and a Divide-N-Hide adjustable cargo floor behind the rear seat, similar to the
Nissan Quest minivan. When the rear seat is occupied, the Versa Note offers 21.4 cubic feet of cargo volume. When the rear seat is folded down, the Versa Note offers a flat load floor from the hatchback to the front seatbacks. Either way, the trunk contains a covered storage well to keep items out of the sight of prying eyes.
Optional Features
Depending on the trim level selected, Nissan offers numerous upgrades for the new 2014 Versa Note. Bluetooth connectivity, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, height-adjustable driver's seat, and a center console armrest are optional. Other upgrades include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 4.3-inch dashboard display screen, satellite radio, USB port with iPod control, and an Intelligent Key passive entry system with push-button ignition. Fog lights, 16-inch aluminum wheels, and heated front seats are also offered, as well as a reversing camera and an Easy Fill Tire Alert system.
The Nissan Note 1.6 SV model is offered with an SL Tech package that contains NissanConnect smartphone pairing technology combined with a navigation system, real-time weather and traffic reports, Bluetooth streaming audio, hands-free text messaging, and more. Owners of iPhones can stream Pandora Internet radio with this package, which also adds an AroundView Monitor system to the Versa Note 1.6 SV.
Under the Hood
The only engine offered in the 2014 Nissan Versa Note is a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine generating 109 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 107 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox in the Versa Note 1.6 S. The Versa Note 1.6 S Plus and the Versa Note 1.6 SV are equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Nissan says that models with the CVT will get 40 mpg on the highway.
Safety
Every 2014 Nissan Versa Note will offer a minimum of six air bags, traction and stability control, and a front-disc, rear-drum anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
Options include an Easy Fill Tire Alert that sounds the horn when the proper tire pressure is reached, making it easier to regularly check and inflate their tires. A reversing camera is also offered for the Versa Note, which can also be equipped with an AroundView Monitor system that shows a top-down, 360-degree view of the vehicle and its surroundings, making it easier to maneuver in tight quarters. The optional NissanConnect system provides hands-free text messaging technology.
Technology
The Nissan Versa Note's optional NissanConnect technology allows owners to wirelessly pair a smartphone to the system, facilitating Bluetooth audio streaming, the ability to run applications from the system's 5.8-inch touch screen, perform Google Point of Interest searches and access Google Send to Car destinations, send and receive text messages without removing your hands from the steering wheel, and more.
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