US drivers lose the last sub-$20,000 new car as Nissan pulls the 2025 Versa, leaving a gap in the budget car market. Discover the remaining affordable options today.
For decades, American shoppers have counted on sub‑$20,000 new cars to stay mobile without breaking the bank. That safety net just vanished.
What happened to the Nissan Versa?
On December 23, Nissan quietly halted production of the 2025 Versa for the U.S. market. The move is part of a broader product‑strategy shift, not an isolated decision, but it effectively removes the last vehicle with a starting price below $20,000.
“Nissan remains committed to offering competitively priced models with appealing design,” a company spokesperson told Carscoops. Yet the Versa was the final sedan that kept the price tag under the $20k ceiling.
Why the low‑price segment is disappearing
Industry analysts have been flagging pressure on budget models for years. In 2023, both the Versa and the midsize Altima faced sluggish sales, but only the Altima survived the cull. Meanwhile, Mitsubishi already withdrew its Mirage, another sub‑$20k contender.
With the Versa gone, Nissan’s cheapest offering in the U.S. is the Kicks Play SUV, starting at $22,910 – and even that model could face an early exit.
What’s left for budget‑focused buyers?
Customers still interested in a Nissan sedan will have to look at the Sentra, which starts at $23,845. The newest Nissan Kicks SUV begins at $23,925.
Outside Nissan, the Hyundai Venue 2026 steps in as the cheapest new car on the market at $22,150. For those set on a sedan, Kia’s K4, priced from $23,385, is the most affordable option.
Implications for the U.S. auto market
The disappearance of the sub‑$20,000 segment narrows choices for first‑time drivers, students, and cost‑conscious families. Dealerships may see a shift toward certified‑pre‑owned vehicles or a push for manufacturers to introduce new entry‑level models.
While the Versa exits the U.S., it continues elsewhere, with the next generation targeting Latin American markets under the same name.
What to expect next
Watch for announcements from other manufacturers hoping to fill the price gap. In the meantime, prospective buyers should compare the remaining budget‑friendly models and consider financing deals or incentives that can bring higher‑priced cars closer to the $20k sweet spot.