Nissan debuts 2014 Versa Note, Resonance Crossover Concept at 2013 NAIAS

Nissan has presented two important all-new vehicles at the 2013 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). The 2014 Nissan Versa Note, which made its North American debut, is the second-generation of the popular Versa hatchback. It is scheduled to go on
sale at Nissan dealers nationwide this summer.

The sleekly styled Versa Note shared the stage with the dramatic Nissan Resonance, a design concept previewing the direction of future Nissan crossovers. The Resonance concept is being shown for the time anywhere at NAIAS. Nissan is also debuting an all-new multi-level exhibit stand at the show, featuring an amphitheater-style stage and cantilevered electronic 'halo' surrounding the display space.

"Our three all-new vehicles launched in the past six months - Altima, Sentra and Pathfinder - helped propel the Nissan Division to its best year ever with sales of more than one-million vehicles. We're keeping the excitement going with this great-looking Versa Note and its unexpected and affordable technology, which should help Versa retain its title as the top-selling nameplate in the entry-level segment*," said Al Castignetti, Nissan Division Vice-President and General Manager.

The list of advanced features offered on the roomy, 5-passenger 2014 Versa Note includes a segment-first** Around View Monitor, NissanConnectSM with Navigation System with Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant and Active Grille Shutter - which helps it deliver expected 40 miles per gallon highway fuel economy with the CVT transmission. A starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)*** of $13,990 for the new Versa Note was announced, joining the 2013 Versa Sedan's $11,990 starting MSRP***.

"The Resonance concept leads Nissan into a new 'innovation era' of smart design and smart technology, ensuring that Nissan will continue its global crossover design leadership for many years to come," said Nissan Executive Vice-President Andy Palmer.

The Resonance concept was created at Nissan Design America in San Diego, CA and features an open, airy architecture highlighted by a unique 'floating' roof created through the use of the thin, steeply raked A-pillars, large full-length glass panel and flowing D-pillar design. Inside, the designers imagined what the future of first-class space travel might be: Welcoming yet exclusive and high-tech yet premium. The resulting 'VIP lounge', with its light, buttery leather and premium-stitched seats, exudes genuine sophistication.

The all-wheel drive Resonance concept also features an efficient hybrid electric drivetrain that includes Nissan's proprietary 'one-motor, two-clutch' system, which combines a smaller displacement internal combustion gasoline engine with an electric motor/lithium-ion battery and advanced management system.

"The all-new Versa Note, and a future crossover that could look a lot like what you see here with Resonance, are just two of the many future products coming from Nissan," concluded Palmer. "Nissan welcomes attendees at the show to see what 'Innovation that excites' is all about with our new display, our exciting 2013 Nissan model lineup and this special preview of what's ahead."

* Base upon R.L. Polk Total Registrations from Aug. 2011 to Oct. 2012. 2012 Ward's Lower Small Segment
** 2013 Ward's Lower Small Segment. MY14 Versa Note vs. 2013 competitors. Competitor cargo space volumes from AutoPlanner
*** MSRP excludes applicable tax, title, license fees and destination charges. Dealer sets actual price

Posted in: 2014 Nissan Versa Note,Al Castignetti,All-Wheel-Drive,Andy Palmer,Concept,International,NAIAS,Nissan,Nissan Resonance Concept,North American International Auto Show 2013,Shows/Expo,World Debut