Payne: Floggin’ the Nissan Versa, last of the $20k cars

Posted by Talbot Payne on February 19, 2026

Naples, Florida — And then there were none.

My subcompact 2025 Nissan Versa sedan tester was the last of its breed: a new car that starts under $20,000. The $18,350 Versa ceased production for sale in the United States at the end of 2025. The subcompact Kia Soul SUV takes over as the most affordable new 2026 vehicle on the market at $21,935.

The affordable end of the U.S. market has been squeezed for some time as strict federal emissions regulations were more difficult for small cars to make, while must-have technology like digital screens added cost, and safety regulations piled on new mandated features like backup cameras, anti-lock brakes, airbag safety systems. That, and cars have become so doggone reliable that high-mileage used cars are a serious alternative. Heck, Ford — which doesn’t sell a new vehicle under $29,990 (once you include destination, title and other fees) — axed its Versa competitor, the Fiesta, waaaay back in 2019.

The 2025 Nissan Versa options attractive wheels in the base S trim with the S+ package.

The 2025 Nissan Versa options attractive wheels in the base S trim with the S+ package.

Henry Payne, The Detroit News

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