Nissan Versa 5-Speed Manual Transmission Discontinued: Low Sales and Tariffs to Blame.
In a move reflecting industry trends and economic challenges, Nissan has officially ended production of the manual-transmission Versa, previously one of the most affordable new cars in the U.S. This decision, reported by Automotive News, marks the end of an era for budget-conscious car buyers seeking a manual driving experience.
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Why Did Nissan Discontinue the Versa Manual?
Several factors contributed to this move:
- Declining Sales: Fewer than 5% of Versas sold last year had a manual gearbox, making it an increasingly niche choice.
- Import Tariffs: The 25% tariff on Mexico-made vehicles significantly impacted the affordability of the model.
- Business Strategy: Nissan emphasized its focus on “the most popular Versa grades that deliver the strongest business performance.”
Nissan’s decision follows a clear market trend. Reports indicate that in 2024, only around 2,129 units of manual Versa sedans were sold, making up less than 5% of the model’s total sales. Given such low demand, coupled with increasing production costs and tariffs, keeping the manual transmission alive became economically unfeasible for the automaker.
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The Nissan Versa S, priced at $17,190, was not just the last five-speed manual car—it was also the most affordable new car in America. With the Mitsubishi Mirage exiting the market, the Versa earned the title of the nation’s cheapest sedan, albeit briefly.
With the manual-transmission variant discontinued, Nissan Versa remains the most affordable car on the U.S. market, but its base price will likely increase. Additionally, Nissan is expected to phase out the Versa entirely within the next year, directing buyers toward the $23,220 Kicks SUV as an alternative.
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For car buyers seeking affordability, the discontinuation of the manual-transmission Nissan Versa is a significant shift. As automakers streamline production and adapt to changing market dynamics, those who cherish manual gearboxes may need to turn to the few remaining models still offering them.
