Nissan Versa Manual Transmission Discontinued in 2025
Nissan Versa Manual Transmission Discontinued in 2025
Nissan Versa manual transmission discontinued — that’s the headline making waves in the automotive world as Nissan officially ends production of its five-speed manual Versa sedan. Once known as the cheapest manual car in the U.S., the Versa S Manual is no longer being assembled, marking the end of an era for budget-conscious drivers who preferred to row their own gears.
According to a report from Automotive News, the decision to discontinue the manual version stems from a combination of poor sales and economic pressures. In 2024, fewer than 5% of all Versa units sold were equipped with the manual gearbox—roughly 2,000 out of 42,589 cars. In a competitive market increasingly favoring convenience and technology, the manual transmission simply couldn’t keep up.
Nissan Versa
Nissan Versa 5-speed manual end of production
Another contributing factor to the Nissan Versa manual transmission discontinued story is the 25% tariff on Mexican-built vehicles. The Versa is manufactured in Aguascalientes, Mexico, and the tariff—initially introduced under the Trump administration—has added nearly $4,500 to the retail price of the entry-level Versa S Manual. For a car that originally started at just $18,330, this increase significantly reduces its appeal and profitability.
While the manual version is now gone, the 2025 Nissan Versa price USA lineup still offers a competitive entry point. However, with the base model now CVT-equipped, the starting price is expected to rise to around $20,130—still affordable, but no longer the unbeatable value it once was. This change also simplifies production for Nissan, allowing the factory to focus on more popular variants and improve efficiency.
The Nissan Versa 5-speed manual end of production also highlights a broader trend: fewer and fewer mainstream vehicles are offering manual transmissions. Today, such gearboxes are mostly reserved for performance models like the Porsche 911 or the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. Among economy cars, stick-shifts have become nearly extinct.
If you’re looking for affordable cars without manual transmission 2025, the list continues to grow. Models like the Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, and the now fully CVT-based Nissan Versa offer solid features, good mileage, and lower maintenance costs—all without the manual option.
Although Nissan has confirmed that the rest of the Versa lineup will remain in production for now, rumors suggest the entire model may be phased out within the next year. In its place, Nissan is expected to consolidate its sedan offerings, possibly with a next-generation Sentra that will replace both the current Sentra and Altima. Budget shoppers might be directed instead toward the $23,220 Nissan Kicks SUV, which offers more utility and is better aligned with consumer demand.
For those nostalgic about manual transmissions, the Nissan Versa manual transmission discontinued news is bittersweet. It signals a shift in the market—away from driver engagement and toward broader accessibility and cost-effectiveness.
Looking for Affordable Car Options in Toronto?
If you’re in Toronto and searching for affordable cars without manual transmission in 2025, visit CarRookie — a trusted local dealership offering a wide range of budget-friendly sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs. Whether you’re eyeing a Versa, a Sentra, or exploring alternatives, CarRookie’s knowledgeable team can help you find the right vehicle at the right price. Competitive financing, transparent fees, and personalized service make CarRookie a top destination for car buyers in Ontario.