What Is the Price Difference Between the 2025 Nissan Versa and 2025 Kia Forte?

October 13th, 2026 by
Two modern compact four-door sedans parked side by side on a clean dealership lot, one dark blue and one light silver, three-quarter front view, price-shopping comparison feel, clear late-afternoon autumn light, low dealership building and turning trees in the background. Photorealistic, natural lighting. No text, no logos other than natural vehicle badging, no identifiable faces. (Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.)
Representative image for illustration purposes only. Actual vehicle may vary based on trim and configuration.

The 2025 Nissan Versa starts at an entry MSRP of $17,390 for the S manual and $19,190 for the S CVT, while compact competitors like the Kia Forte typically start around $20,000 to $21,000. Across comparable trim levels, the 2025 Nissan Versa delivers a price advantage of roughly $2,000 on base models to nearly $7,000 when compared to fully optioned compact sedans, making it one of the most cost-effective new vehicles on the market.

This significant cost gap gives budget-conscious drivers immediate savings at purchase without forcing compromises on modern safety equipment or commuter comfort. Every 2025 Nissan Versa comes equipped with essential driver-assist technologies, including standard Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Automatic Braking. Competitors often restrict rear emergency braking or advanced safety features to higher, more expensive trim packages.

When evaluating the overall cost of ownership, purchase price is only part of the equation. The 2025 Nissan Versa features a reliable 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque, delivering exceptional efficiency that keeps long-term fuel expenses low. Nissan also includes Nissan Maintenance Care for the 2025 model year, covering up to three scheduled oil changes within the first two years or 24,000 miles. That complimentary maintenance schedule further reduces out-of-pocket operating expenses during the initial years of ownership.

For shoppers looking for a practical commuter sedan that maximizes value on daily drives along Nashville Pike, our team at Newton Nissan of Gallatin makes exploring your options easy and transparent. You can visit our Gallatin showroom location to compare models in person or give our team a quick call at (615) 442-3090 to discuss current availability.

Table of Contents

What Are the Starting Prices Across All 2025 Nissan Versa Trim Levels?

Nissan offers the 2025 Versa in three trims, with the base S starting at $17,390 and the top SR trim reaching $21,390, catering to a range of buyer preferences.

Each trim level in the 2025 Nissan Versa lineup is structured to provide clear feature steps, allowing buyers to select the exact level of tech and comfort they need:

  • S Trim: Features standard Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display, halogen headlights, and durable cloth seating. Available with either a five-speed manual or an Xtronic CVT.
  • SV Trim: Adds 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, body-color exterior door handles, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a wireless smartphone charging pad, a 7-inch Advanced Drive-Assist display in the gauge cluster, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
  • SR Trim: Features 17-inch alloy wheels, dark chrome grille accents, LED headlights, heated front seats, automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen display, remote engine start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and Intelligent Cruise Control.

Middle-class commuters traveling from Portland into Gallatin appreciate the SV trim as the sweet spot in the lineup, offering touchscreen smartphone connectivity, alloy wheels, and active blind-spot protection for barely over $20,000. Buyers comparing trims on our showroom floor usually ask whether they need to step up to the SV trim for Apple CarPlay before they ask about exterior colors.

For commuters seeking enhanced highway convenience, the top-spec SR trim adds Intelligent Cruise Control and sport cloth upholstery while staying thousands of dollars below entry-level prices of larger compact sedans. If you are exploring choices for drivers near Hendersonville, you can browse our new Nissan Versa inventory to find the ideal trim for your daily driving needs.

What Is the Gas Mileage of the Manual Transmission 2025 Nissan Versa?

The 2025 Nissan Versa equipped with the standard five-speed manual transmission achieves an EPA-estimated 27 city/35 highway/30 combined mpg. Equipping the available Xtronic CVT increases fuel economy ratings to 32 city/40 highway/35 combined mpg.

While the manual transmission offers an engaging driving feel and the lowest entry MSRP, the Xtronic CVT optimizes engine RPM continuously to maximize fuel savings during highway cruising. Fitted with a 10.8-gallon fuel tank, a CVT-equipped 2025 Nissan Versa delivers an estimated total driving range of nearly 380 miles per tank in combined driving conditions. That efficiency helps minimize stops at the pump during long weekly commutes across Middle Tennessee.

The fuel economy of the 2025 Nissan Versa places it among the most efficient non-hybrid passenger vehicles available. Its lightweight chassis and tuned 1.6-liter engine maintain steady efficiency without requiring complicated hybrid battery hardware or external plug-in charging routines. For drivers focused on minimizing annual fuel expenditures and routine service overhead, the Versa offers an ideal balance of simplicity and economy.

Shoppers interested in exploring affordable commuting options can also review our selection of pre-owned vehicles to compare different model years and efficiency ratings side-by-side.

What Are the 0 to 60 mph Acceleration Times for the 2025 Nissan Versa vs Kia Forte?

The 2025 Nissan Versa accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 9.5 to 10.4 seconds powered by its 122-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. By comparison, standard 2.0-liter Kia Forte models complete the 0 to 60 mph sprint in about 8.1 seconds, while turbocharged GT variants accomplish it in roughly 7.3 seconds.

While compact sedans with larger or turbocharged engines post quicker track acceleration times, the 2025 Nissan Versa is engineered around practical efficiency, low vehicle weight, and smooth urban maneuverability. Its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 114 lb-ft of torque, providing responsive throttle response from a stop and smooth power output for merging onto regional highways. The tuned electric power steering feels light and precise, making tight parking maneuvers and neighborhood turns effortless.

In real-world commuting, the Versa maintains composed handling and a comfortable ride over uneven pavement. Stiff body construction and optimized suspension dampening absorb road imperfections effectively. Bagging a tight parking space or navigating busy suburban arterial roads is where the subcompact footprint shines, proving that straightforward engineering and maneuverability matter more in daily driving than raw track sprint times.

If you are considering upgrading your current vehicle to a fuel-efficient sedan, our finance team can help you value your trade online in just a few minutes to see how much equity you can apply toward a new Versa.

Does the 2025 Nissan Versa Offer Blind Spot Monitoring and Apple CarPlay Connectivity?

The 2025 Nissan Versa offers Blind Spot Warning as a standard safety feature on the SV and SR trims, while smartphone integration is provided via wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on those same mid and upper trim levels. The 2025 Nissan Versa does not feature wireless Apple CarPlay or wireless Android Auto, relying instead on a secure USB cable connection to mirror navigation, music, and messaging apps directly onto the touchscreen.

The infotainment layout in the 2025 Nissan Versa is designed for quick user access and minimal driver distraction:

  • S Trim: Equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth hands-free phone integration, streaming audio, and a four-speaker sound system.
  • SV Trim: Adds wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a wireless device charging pad, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an upgraded driver information display.
  • SR Trim: Upgrades to an 8-inch touchscreen display, a six-speaker audio system, NissanConnect telematics services, and additional USB charging ports for front and rear passengers.

On the safety front, every 2025 Nissan Versa includes Nissan Safety Shield 360 technology as standard or available equipment. Standard features across all trims include Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and High Beam Assist. Upgrading to the SV or SR trim adds Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which scan behind and alongside the vehicle to alert drivers to hidden traffic.

Suburban commuters traveling along Shackle Island Road appreciate how Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert provide extra confidence when merging onto busy highways or backing out of blind parking spots. To help fit a tech-equipped sedan into your monthly budget, you can apply for financing online to review personalized payment options before visiting our dealership.

How Reliable Is the Nissan Versa for Long-Term Ownership and Roadside Assistance Coverage?

The Nissan Versa is highly reliable for long-term ownership, earning a Great Quality & Reliability score of 87 out of 100 from J.D. Power. Every 2025 Nissan Versa comes protected by a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, Nissan Maintenance Care covering up to three scheduled oil changes within two years or 24,000 miles, and 24/7 Nissan Roadside Assistance.

Nissan’s manufacturer-backed roadside assistance coverage runs for 3 years or 36,000 miles, providing complete peace of mind on every journey. If unexpected trouble arises on the road, drivers can call Nissan Roadside Assistance: 1-800-225-2476 for rapid, emergency support. Key coverage benefits include:

  • Flat Tire Changes: On-site installation of your vehicle’s spare tire.
  • Lockout Assistance: Emergency service to help unlock your vehicle if keys are accidentally locked inside.
  • Fuel Delivery: Delivery of emergency fuel directly to your location if you run out on the highway.
  • Battery Jump-Starts: Immediate assistance to jump-start a depleted battery and get you moving again.
  • Emergency Towing: Direct towing to the nearest authorized Nissan service center, ensuring your vehicle receives care from certified technicians using genuine OEM components.

Long-term durability is a hallmark of the Versa design. Its naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine uses proven mechanical architecture that avoids complex turbocharger maintenance. Simple fluid maintenance intervals and affordable replacement components keep annual service costs exceptionally low.

When your vehicle requires routine upkeep or replacement items like air filters and wiper blades, you can easily order genuine Nissan parts directly through our dealership service portal.

Common Questions About the 2025 Nissan Versa and Next Steps

Shopping for an efficient subcompact sedan involves evaluating purchase prices, fuel economy ratings, safety technology, and long-term ownership protection. Below are answers to common questions buyers ask when evaluating the 2025 Nissan Versa.

Q: Does the 2025 Nissan Versa have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

The 2025 Nissan Versa does not offer wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come standard on the SV and SR trims using a physical USB cable connection to link your smartphone to the central touchscreen. The entry-level Versa S trim includes Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling but does not include Apple CarPlay or Android Auto screen mirroring.

Q: What warranty coverage comes standard with a new 2025 Nissan Versa?

Every 2025 Nissan Versa includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. Nissan also provides 3 years or 36,000 miles of 24/7 roadside assistance coverage and Nissan Maintenance Care, which covers up to three complimentary scheduled oil changes within your first two years or 24,000 miles of ownership.

Q: How much cargo space is available in the trunk of the 2025 Nissan Versa?

The 2025 Nissan Versa provides up to 15 cubic feet of trunk space on SV and SR trims (about 15 cubic feet on S trims). This generous cargo volume leads the subcompact sedan class and accommodates multiple large suitcases, weekly grocery hauls, or sports gear. A 60/40-split folding rear seatback is standard on SV and SR trims to carry longer items.

Q: What is the gas mileage difference between the manual and CVT Versa models?

The 2025 Nissan Versa with a 5-speed manual transmission gets an EPA-estimated 27 city/35 highway/30 combined mpg. Models equipped with the Xtronic CVT automatic transmission achieve an EPA-estimated 32 city/40 highway/35 combined mpg, providing a noticeable bump in fuel economy for daily highway driving.

Q: How does the starting price of the 2025 Nissan Versa compare to the Kia Forte?

The 2025 Nissan Versa S manual starts at $17,390, while the S CVT starts at $19,190. Compact competitors like the Kia Forte start higher, typically around $20,000 to $21,000 for base models. This creates a price advantage of $2,000 to nearly $7,000 in favor of the Nissan Versa depending on the chosen trim levels and option packages.

Ready to Experience the 2025 Nissan Versa in Gallatin?

If you are looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient sedan equipped with modern safety tech and covered by comprehensive warranty protection, the 2025 Nissan Versa is ready for a test drive. Our team at Newton Nissan of Gallatin is committed to providing straightforward pricing and an easy car-buying experience. Stop by our Gallatin dealership location at 1461 Nashville Pike or give our sales team a call at (615) 442-3090 to schedule your visit today.


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