Applying Shakespearian principles, Nissan is working to make its Versa Note subcompact hatchback “as you like it,” having just introduced a new, sporty SR trim. (We’d like it if the Note weren’t so mediocre, but we digress.) Featured at the Chicago auto show and due to go on sale this spring, the SR raises the number of Versa Note variants to a half-dozen: S MT, S Plus CVT, SV CVT, SL—also a Windy City debutante—and the SR.
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All share the same 1.6-liter four-cylinder (109 horsepower, 107 lb-ft of torque), and most employ the Xtronic automatic transmission—that’s Nissan for “CVT.” So equipped, Versa Notes are EPA-rated for 40 mpg highway, a rating that applies to the SR.
The items that distinguish the SR from its stablemates are largely aesthetic. Exterior call-outs include a modified front fascia, headlights with smoked lenses, standard fog lights, rocker panel extensions, side mirrors with integrated turn signals, a unique rear spoiler, and a set of dark 16-inch aluminum wheels with 195/55 all-season tires. Inside, the SR has faux-suede-trimmed seats with orange accents and double stitching, piano black center dash trim, dedicated instrumentation, a “floating trip computer,” silver accents, and chromed control knobs. There’s also a sporty steering wheel, leather-wrapped and characterized as “370Z-inspired.”
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In addition to the SR trim bits, standard features include a four-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system and a 12-volt power outlet. An optional convenience package augments standard content with a variable Divide-N-Hide storage system; NissanConnect infotainment with a 5.0-inch color screen; NissanConnect Apps for smartphone integration with Facebook, Twitter, Pandora, iHeartRadio, and TuneIn radio; Bluetooth streaming audio; hands-free text messaging; a USB iPod interface; satellite radio; and a rearview camera. So, do you like it?
