What's with the Nissan Versa's pricing?

[996GT2]

I read the other day that the Nissan Versa is the cheapest new car in the US right now, with a MSRP of 11,990. However, if you move up to the loaded SL model, the price jumps up to almost $17k! I use the term "loaded" loosely, because the SL model is still pretty basic in terms of equipment. No sunroof, only 4 speakers, no backup camera, etc. It actually seems like you are paying the extra $5k for not a whole lot. In the end of the day you're still stuck with an awkward looking car that only has 109hp.

So, ATG, help me understand this. Who in their right mind would pay 17k for a Nissan Versa when better equipped competitors like the Fit and Fiesta can be had for less money?

 

[bigi]

Actually, me thinks it can be applied to most cars - don't get fully loaded models.

I get the middle trim. You get the Versa for ~15K.

 

[Tweak155]

It is ridiculous what car companies charge for certain features. I've seen "MSRP" for features like running boards + moonroof + trailer hitch for like $8,000. You can buy a decent used car for that much.

But, I always find cars that have that stuff

 

[SearchMaster]

Heh - I'll ask my sister. She works at Nissan and her team determines the pricing level of various trim levels.

 

[brainhulk]

Me thinks the base car price is to get you into the door. When in actuality dealers never order such cars

 

[Vetterin]

So, ATG, help me understand this. Who in their right mind would pay 17k for a Nissan Versa when better equipped competitors like the Fit and Fiesta can be had for less money?

I just priced a 2015 Fiesta Titanium Hatchback at $21,220 (base price $19,410 w/manual) so what's the question again???

 

[heymrdj]

I just priced a 2015 Fiesta Titanium Hatchback at $21,220 (base price $19,410 w/manual) so what's the question again???

Because a titanium is way over an SL?

Fiesta SE Hatchback automatic with 201A (for touchscreen ect) and comfort package (heated seats/mirrors) is 17,800.

EDIT:
17,400 for a sedan, 18000 for sedan with subwoofer sound system by kicker.

 

[uclabachelor]

That's why you get a Mazda 3 instead of a Versa.

Cars are priced with options that work out to about 40% premium over the cost of the base model.

It gets even worse for luxury models. Base 3-series BMW starts at $33k and goes up to like $65k fully loaded.

 

[manimal]

my sister got one for under 15k that had enough. Shes tiny though and doesnt care about the heated seats and mirrors in miami though. Its that stuff that kills you. If you look at the prices for these upgrades they are in line with more expensive base price cars and only seems shocking when viewed from the low base price.

 

[Midwayman]

Options are always overpriced. Generally better off finding a model that has what you want in its base price.

 

[TridenT]

That's why you get a Mazda 3 instead of a Versa.

Cars are priced with options that work out to about 40% premium over the cost of the base model.

It gets even worse for luxury models. Base 3-series BMW starts at $33k and goes up to like $65k fully loaded.

Lol this. BMW 3-Series is ridiculous for options. The used market is ridiculous with them too. You can get a fully loaded 3-series for a decent price once it's used. I'd never buy one new. So crazy expensive.

 

[996GT2]

I just priced a 2015 Fiesta Titanium Hatchback at $21,220 (base price $19,410 w/manual) so what's the question again???

A Fiesta Titanium is basically a Rolls Royce compared to a Versa SL. The "loaded" SL trim is pretty much comparable to a base Fiesta S or a midrange SE. For example, the Versa SL's model has power mirrors and a 4-speaker sound system...whereas a base Fiesta S has power mirrors and a 6-speaker sound system.

I know that loaded models are supposed to cost more, and that's perfectly fine. However, in this case, it seems like the extra $4-5k over the base model isn't getting you much at all.

 

[Vetterin]

No.....I do understand what you are saying but for the $4000 upcharge to the SL you get:

continuously variable transmission (CVT), cruise control, additional stereo speakers, upgraded interior trim, and aerodynamic enhancements to improve fuel economy, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power exterior mirrors, driver's seat height adjuster, center armrest, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, remote trunk release, electroluminescent gauges, expanded trip computer functions, and significant upgrades to interior and exterior trim, 16-inch aluminum wheels, fog lights, Nissan Intelligent Key passive entry with push-button ignition, Bluetooth connectivity, tire-pressuring monitoring system with an Easy Fill Tire Alert, and a premium sound system with satellite radio and a USB port.

I'm not trying to sell anyone on the SL....................just sayin!

 

[Subyman]

Lol this. BMW 3-Series is ridiculous for options. The used market is ridiculous with them too. You can get a fully loaded 3-series for a decent price once it's used. I'd never buy one new. So crazy expensive.

I loath BMW for their option pricing. I think they still upcharge satellite radio and ipod connectivity. Ridiculous. Base model is always reasonably priced and then you want heated seats and basic tech features, it jumps 15K.

 

[michal1980]

Lol this. BMW 3-Series is ridiculous for options. The used market is ridiculous with them too. You can get a fully loaded 3-series for a decent price once it's used. I'd never buy one new. So crazy expensive.

Maybe you should find a job/place to live first. ;-)

But I agree with your basic point. BMW is option hell.

I'm surprised they dont charge for keys.

 

[Wuzup101]

BMW is Porsche lite regarding option pricing...

 

[NutBucket]

Well then BMW is Rolls Royce lite.....

It's all relative.