Manual transmissions have long held a special place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts, offering a more connected and engaging experience behind the wheel. However, the era of the five-speed manual is officially over in the United States. Nissan has reportedly ended production of the five-speed manual Versa, marking the retirement of the most affordable new car and the final five-speed manual transmission available for sale in America.
Production Ceases at Aguascalientes Plant
According to sources familiar with the situation, Nissan discontinued production of the Versa S five-speed manual at its Aguascalientes, Mexico factory. While the automaker has yet to release an official statement, representatives indicated that Nissan will now refocus efforts on popular Versa trims offering stronger sales performance and business returns. The manual option was only available on the base trim, the Versa S, priced at $18,330 including destination charges for the 2025 model year. With the manual gone, the entry-level Versa S CVT now takes the mantle as the brand’s most budget-friendly model, starting at $20,130.
Versa Specifications and Market Positioning
The Nissan Versa has built its reputation as a practical, economical compact car. Even as new car prices soar and looming tariffs threaten to drive up costs, shoppers continue to gravitate toward affordable models like the Versa. In early 2025, sales for the Versa surged by a remarkable 156%, illustrating its enduring appeal in the market. Other Nissan value leaders, such as the Sentra, Altima, and Kicks – all launched at prices below $30,000 – also witnessed significant growth.
Manual Transmission’s Declining Role
Despite the Versa’s overall success, the manual version accounted for less than 5% of total Versa sales, signaling dwindling consumer interest in shifting their own gears. This shift in demand may foreshadow the possible discontinuation of the Versa line altogether. Rumors suggest that Nissan could replace the Versa with a new electric sedan after the 2025 model year, though official details remain unclear at this time.
Competitive Landscape and Driving Experience
The retirement of the Nissan Versa five-speed manual leaves a noticeable void for lovers of affordable, analog driving experiences. While several six-speed manual vehicles remain available in the market, the departure of the five-speed variant underscores the broader industry move toward automatic and continuously variable transmissions (CVT) for efficiency, ease of use, and wider customer appeal.
Conclusion
For drivers seeking a connection to classic driving dynamics at an accessible price point, Nissan’s decision marks the end of an era. As the automotive market shifts toward electrification and automation, the disappearance of the five-speed manual stands as a milestone moment — a testament to changing consumer tastes and ongoing innovation in vehicle design and performance.
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