Nissan has discontinued its five-speed manual transmission variant of the Versa, a model that has been part of its lineup since 2006, as reported by Autoblog, citing Automotive News.
Nissan later confirmed the discontinuation of the manual base S trim for the 2025 Versa, which starts at $17,190. According to an Automotive News report, a combination of tariff impacts and challenges in maintaining profitability contributed to the decision. Despite being the most affordable new car of 2025, Nissan affirmed that the production of other Versa trims will continue as it offers stronger business performance.
In 2024, fewer than 5% of the 42,589 Nissan Versa units sold were equipped with a five-speed manual transmission.
Nissan produces the Versa alongside the Sentra and Kicks at its Aguascalientes, Mexico, facility, selling all three models in the U.S. market. In 2024, these vehicles collectively accounted for nearly a third of Nissan’s total U.S. sales. The Versa’s discontinuation marked the end of the last new car in the U.S. equipped with a five-speed manual transmission.
Autoblog states that President Trump’s 25% tariff on auto imports has increased the Versa’s starting price by approximately $4,500, making the affordable model less appealing to buyers. With an additional $1,140 shipping charge, the 2025 five-speed manual Versa is priced at $18,330, while the CVT version starts at $20,130. The top-spec Nissan Versa SR is available for $21,190, excluding delivery fees.
Nissan told Autoblog that it is evaluating all options to improve its business performance. Given the model’s low demand and the impact of tariffs, discontinuing the model appears to be a strategic move in response to the company’s ongoing financial difficulties.
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