Hyundai Accent Retains Crown as America's Least Expensive Car

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Nov 25, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ — The country's most dependable sub-compact car is also its most affordable.
The high-mileage 2009 Hyundai Accent has a starting price of $9,970, making it the least expensive new car on the market. But it's also the "Most Dependable Sub-Compact Car" available (as determined by the J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study(SM)) and one of the most fuel efficient vehicles on the road today — a trifecta that no other car can match.

"Accent is the perfect vehicle for a customer looking for the ideal mix of price, dependability and fuel economy," said Mark Dipko, Small Car product manager. "And as a brand known the world over for its value, we feel it is important to retain our crown as the most affordable new car available."

At the Los Angeles Auto Show, Hyundai announced even more good news for the Accent, revealing that next year a special high-mileage "Blue" edition will be available that offers even higher levels of fuel economy without adding to the price. Accent "Blue" will feature fuel-efficient modifications to reduce engine friction and rolling resistance, enhance aerodynamics, optimize gearing and revise engine calibrations for maximum efficiency, all adding up to higher fuel mileage and lower emissions than today's model.

The 2009 Accent GS retains the same content as last year's model and has not been reduced to achieve America's best price point. Accent GS offers a 1.6-litre, 110-horsepower engine, power steering, advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, roof-mounted curtain airbags, tire pressure monitoring system, front variable intermittent wipers, 60/40 split fold-down seatback, six-way adjustable driver seat, adjustable head restraints for all seating positions and rear spoiler.

Pricing for all other Accent models remains unchanged, delivering outstanding value throughout the lineup. In addition to the $9,970 Accent GS 3-door with manual transmission, the Accent three-door with automatic transmission starts at $12,070; Accent GLS 4-door with manual transmission starts at $12,920; and the sport-tuned and comprehensively equipped Accent SE 3-door with manual transmission starts at $15,070. Freight charges for Accent are $695.

All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Hyundai buyers are protected by a 10-year/100,000-mile power train warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection.

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif. is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced by more than 790 Hyundai dealerships nationwide.
Hyundai Accent received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles among sub-compact cars in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2008 Vehicle Dependability Study(SM). Study based on responses from over 52,000 original owners of 2005 model-year vehicles, measuring more than 250 models. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of owners surveyed in January to April 2008. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

The Nissan offered in the People's Republic of China is similar to the Nissan Versa 1.6 in that there's no option for the 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Nissan could put the 1.8-liter engine in the PRC Tiida and they'd go nuts over the performance. Here they would have to offer a bit more to the vehicle, maybe a transplant from the Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V, than paint and a sweet badge. Given the existence of the Sentra SE-R and move to make the Versa cheaper we're not holding our breath. [China Car Times]

According to Automotive News, there will be an economy version of the 2009 Nissan Versa that will have an MSRP of $9,990, more than $2,000 off the base price of the lowest level model Versa. The cheapest cars currently are the 2009 Chevy Aveo ($12,625), 2008 Kia Rio ($12,145) and 2009 Hyundai Accent ($11,070), putting the Versa well below these competitive models.

UPDATE: Nissan has revealed the details of their new Versa sedan, which explains how it will be the cheapest car in America. The new Versa sedan will be offered with a 1.6-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine as opposed to the 1.8-liter currently found in the Versa sedan and hatchback. This model will come equipped with a five-speed manual transmission that, combined with the new engine, will help it achieve 34 mpg highway. We assume there will also be some cutbacks inside, though we haven't seen the details of that yet.

Update #2: From Nissan USA, we're hearing that when the new, cheaper Versa comes out on November 18th here you can expect to see some more changes in addition to the new transmission and engine: different seat cloth, 14-inch wheels w/ wheel covers and less chrome accents.

As for the 0% financing, Nissan joins Toyota among Japanese automakers offering nil financing to get people to actually buy a car. The deal applies to the Rogue, Altima, Sentra, Versa and Murano (sorry Maxima buyers). The company will also offer attractive lease deals and extend their $399-a-month lease offer on the new Maxima. We like the Versa and for $9,999 it seems like a nicer choice than a Rio or an Aveo.

Nissan Announces Lowest-Priced New Car in the U.S.*

- New, 2009 Versa Sedan 1.6 Features $,9,990 MSRP, Excellent Fuel Economy, Design, Quality and Reliability; Available at Dealers November 18 -

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (October 31, 2008) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced a new 2009 Nissan Versa Sedan 1.6 model, which features a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $9,990* (excluding Destination and Handling). The new Versa focuses squarely on value and fuel economy, with its standard 107-horsepower DOHC 16-valve 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivering responsive performance and a 34 mpg highway fuel economy rating (with the 5-speed manual transmission).

The Versa Sedan 1.6 goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide beginning November 18, 2008.

"Starting under $10,000, this new Versa Sedan 1.6 has the lowest new-car MSRP in the United States," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "It combines the low price of a used car with the dependability, high quality and full factory warranty of every new Nissan. It's our way of saying that in tough economic times, Nissan is here to help."

Since its introduction in 2006, Nissan Versa has enjoyed strong appeal in the marketplace among buyers seeking fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance or roominess. Versa offers one of the highest standard horsepower/torque ratings and the largest interior in the entry-level segment – along with excellent quality, reliability and durability.

The new high-value Versa Sedan 1.6 model features a smaller displacement 1.6-liter engine (versus the standard 1.8-liter), standard 5-speed manual transmission and simplified content. It is also available with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg city/34 mpg highway with the 5-speed manual and 26 mpg city/33 mpg highway with the 4-speed automatic.

"The new Versa Sedan 1.6 is another way in which Nissan is taking a leadership role in reassuring consumers that now is a great time to consider a new car," said Carolin.

* Based on Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $9,990 for the new, 2009 model year Versa 1.6 Sedan. Claim based on competitive MSRP's in the Lower-Small segment for new, model year 2009 vehicles. MSRP excludes applicable tax, title and license fees. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to change without notice. Destination and Handling $695.

Source: Automotive News (subs. req) via eGMCarTech, Nissan]

Nissan Full-Size Truck

We know that that this upcoming truck will be a replacement for the Nissan Titan that is based on the 2009 Dodge Ram. No decisions have been made regarding the powertrain options, though Nissan VP of Corporate Communications Frederique Le Greves made it clear that Dodge-sourced engines weren't off the table. The hybrid drive system jointly developed by GM/Chrysler/Daimler/BMW is also still on the table, though no decisions have been made on the use of that engine.

The reasons for the change? The company looked at a market for full-sized trucks that dropped from 2.5 million units in 2004 to 2.1 million units this last year. Since it is a rather large market they want to compete but by partnering with Chrysler they save themselves development costs.

There's also no word on whether they're going to keep the truck's current name of Titan, or try something else. However, Le Greves did say that the truck is being called the "next generation Titan" internally.

Chrysler Small Car

There are maddeningly few details regarding Chrysler's new small car other than it'll be built in the Nissan Oppama Plant, which builds most of Nissan's small cars (March, Cube, Cube Cubic, Tilda, Tilda Latio, Note and Bluebird Slyphy). Which platform will they use? On one hand, Nissan is bringing the Cube to the United States and it could make sense to base it on a platform that's going to be utilized here. On the other hand, Dodge is already planning on using a version of the Versa/Tilda platform in South America for sale there next year. In a conference call with Chrysler's Tom LaSorda, he indicated that the car was already designed, which makes us wonder if Chrysler knows what platform it is going to use. At this point there are too many uncertainties to say for sure.

[Thanks to Mike Levine from PickupTruck.com for setting it up.]

Nissan Announces Pricing Adjustments on 2008 Models [Dec. 28, 07]

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Dec. 28, 2007) - Nissan today announced interim price increases on all 2008 models (except base 2WD Rogue and 2008.5 Titan models), effective January 8, 2008. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) increases range between $80 and $170.

Models receiving increases include Versa Hatchback and Sedan ($80); Sentra ($80); Altima Sedan, Hybrid and Coupe ($100); Maxima ($140); 350Z Coupe ($140); 350Z Roadster ($170); Quest ($120); Frontier ($100); Rogue ($120 for all models except for base 2WD); Xterra ($110); Pathfinder ($140); and Armada ($170).

The 2008 Nissan lineup features many vehicle introductions and enhancements, including the debut of the 2008 Rogue, which went on sale in September. Rogue is designed to add a new dimension to the crossover sport utility segment - satisfying both the functional and emotional needs of its buyers. Additionally, Nissan's best-selling nameplate, the Altima, extended its lineup with the introduction of the all-new 2008 Altima Coupe, in addition to Altima Sedan and Altima Hybrid models.

Nissan's roster of adventure-ready trucks and SUVs received significant upgrades for the 2008 model year, with major revisions to the Titan full-size truck, including new Long Bed models and new PRO-4X off-road grade. The 2008 Armada full-size SUV features a revised exterior and technological enhancements, and the 2008 Pathfinder mid-size SUV offers a V8 for the first time in its 22-year history, along with a variety of new features. [Source: Nissan]

Among custom jobs at SEMA this year, the matte-black finish is an unmistakable theme. Despite its humble origins among rodders without the cash to indulge in metal flake kandy koatings, the flat finish can cost upward of $10,000 to render properly (we've heard up to $30,000 for the Mercedes CLS on display here). Of course, it attracts fingerprints like a slot machine attracts chain-smoking rubes, so while it looks somewhat slick, it's not exactly the best solution to finding the new minimalism. [Gallery]

Related:
Membership has its Privilegio: Lamborghini's New Special Edition Gallardo [internal]

Somehow, we just can't picture the 2007 Nissan Versa as a Trans Am B-Sedan winner, like its anteceedent Datsun 510. Still, Nissan's getting six of the new economy models all modded up in time for the SEMA show. Edmunds Inside Line reports on the company's custom commissions, including a "Green with Envy" entry by 2K Motorsports Marketing, a "VIP Versa" by M2Motoring, which sends up the noted Japanese mafia style, and a race-inspired tuner by turn3 Creative/Siphon magazine that sports NISMO racing graphics. No pictures yet, but we're sure the garages will be working hard to de-emphasize the Versa's turnipy comportment. – Mike Spinelli

IL Insider: Nissan Readies Versa for Major SEMA Offensive [Edmunds]

Related:
Crossover SUV to Vegas: Ford's SEMA Show Utes [internal]

We have to say, that whenever we think of Nissan compacts, the old "New Nissan Sentra! You need this car!" jingle pops into our head. What was is about the unbridled optimisim of the early 1980s brought that kind of stuff about, complete with choral vocal groups singing faux-Andrew-Lloyd-Webber-style anthemic catchphrase tunes? Who ever thought that was a good idea? They should've commissioned Mike Post to write all their music. We suppose that's what life under threat of nuclear annihilation will do to you. Meanwhile, Nissan's up and undercut Honda's Fit with its Versa pricing, launching the base model at $12,450. Which is just one more reason not to buy an Aveo. [Thanks to Brian for the tip.]

Nissan Announces Pricing on 2007 Versa Hatchback [Nissan News]

Related:
Nissan's Versa Drops by Detroit [Internal]

We're big fans of Iron Maiden. So big, in fact, that we even checked out Samson, frontman Bruce Dickinson's pre-Maiden outfit featuring the inimitable Thunderstick on drums. And whenever we see the Nissan Versa, Samson's "Vice Versa" immediately gets stuck in our heads. Unfortunately, it's not a very good song, and we only know the words to the chorus, which consists of Dickinson repetitively singing "Vice versa!" in his trademark air-raid-siren howl. All of this, just because of a 120hp, four-door hatch to be positioned below the new Sentra.

Related:
Nissan Release Official Pics of Versa Subcompact for US [Internal]

Renault's Clio hatchback beat out the VW Passat, Alfa Romeo 159 and BMW 3-Series to become the European car of the year for 2005. The 58 journalists from 22 countries who judged the award deemed the new Clio just more worthy than more expensive sedans, and its close competitor the Toyota Yaris, due to its refinements and road presence. It's good news for Americans, who will see the Clio appear next year in the form of its platform-mate Nissan Versa economy hatchback. Its rivalry with Toyota will continue when the Toyota Yaris arrives close behind.

Related:
Nissan Releases Official Pics of Versa Subcompact for US [internal]

Get Leonardo DaVinci on the horn, he may be in for some royalty cash. Edmunds Inside Line is reporting on Nissan's move to make continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) — a design for which showed up in ol' Lenny's notebooks — the norm on many of its models. The company plans to produce upward of 1 million CVTs per year worldwide, on both hybrid and traditionally powered cars. In the US, the Murano crossover already comes with CVT as an option, and Nissan's new Versa subcompact will get optional CVT. The move will mean more business for the company's Jatco division, which will supply the trannies (from a new plant in Mexico) for Nissans and for the 2007 Dodge Caliber. Since CVTs swap gear ratios continuously, acceleration comes without the telltale pause between gear swaps in a traditional automatic. As for the whiny noise, we'll all just have to get used to it.

Nissan Anticipates a Major Shift to CVTs [Edmunds]

Related:
Dodge s World Beat: The 2007 Caliber s Global Powertrain [internal]

Americans who've never driven a new Renault M gane Clio, but really want to (they should) will be pleased with Nissan's new Versa subcompact for the US. The 2007 model-year, $12,000+ almost-minicars will arrive first in hatchback form in mid-2006 and, later in 2006, in sedan guise. Nissan also announced further "enhancements" to its 2007 car lineup, including an all-new Sentra, all-new Altima and "enhanced" Maxima (we're not sure a Maxima can, linguistically speaking, be further enhanced, but we're willing to put a cork in it, just this time). The Versas will be assembled at Nissan s Aguascalientes, Mexico facility, which also builds the current Nissan Sentra.

Read the entire press release and all the press pics at Japanese Car Fans.

Related:
Nissan's New US Subcompact to be Called Versa [internal]

Nissan has taken yet another drink from the tank of not-quite words, coming up with Versa as the name of its new subcompacts for the US. The Versa, a Scion competitor that will be built at the company's Mexico plant, will come in hatchback and sedan flavors, and it'll be powered by a 1.8-liter sippy-cup four hooked to a continuously variable transmission. Options will include such dig-it-kids options as Bluetooth compatibility, satellite radio and a Rockford Fosgate subwoofer. According to The Car Connection, the 2007 Versa cost in the $12,000 range to start. The sedan will look like the company's Tiida compact, while the hatch will resemble the Sport Compact concept unveiled at the New York show this year.

Versa for U.S. in Mexico [The Car Connection]

Related:
Nissan s New Entry-Level Compacts to Be Built in Mexico [internal]