Why Is Nissan Dropping the Nissan Versa 5-Speed Manual?

The 2025 Nissan Versa is turning heads, not just for what it brings, but for what it leaves behind. Nissan has officially discontinued the 5-speed manual transmission, once a staple of the base Versa S trim and long considered the most affordable new car in the U.S. This move marks the end of an era for budget-friendly, manual-equipped sedans.

Why did Nissan make this decision? The answer lies in buyer demand, rising costs, and shifting priorities. In 2024, fewer than five percent of Versa buyers chose the manual option. With that low take-rate, combined with steep import tariffs and a business strategy focused on higher-volume trims, Nissan opted to retire the manual model completely for 2025.

This article explains everything you need to know. We’ll explore the key reasons Nissan dropped the manual Versa, how the 2025 lineup is structured, and what this decision means for drivers in Lancaster, Palmdale, Lakeview, and Acton. We’ll also discuss the broader decline of manual transmissions in the industry and what options remain for buyers still searching for a manual Versa.

If you’re shopping for a new car or hoping to find one of the last manual-transmission Versas, visit or call Antelope Valley Nissan today. Our team is here to help you make the right choice for your budget, lifestyle, and driving preferences.

What Happened to the Nissan Versa 5-Speed Manual in 2025?

In 2025, Nissan made a big change to one of its most well-known models. The base Versa S, once the lowest-priced new car in the U.S., no longer includes a manual transmission. The five-speed option is gone.

The Nissan Versa discontinued its manual version after years of being a top pick for buyers who wanted simplicity and value. The stick-shift model had been part of the lineup for a long time, serving drivers who liked more control on the road.

But in 2025, Nissan removed the 5-speed from its lineup. This decision came as the Versa entered the year with only automatic options. That means no more base trim with a manual setup.

Here’s what changed:

• The base Versa S was the only model with a manual
• The starting price was about $18,330 before it was dropped
• The manual was paired with a 1.6L engine and got up to 35 MPG

With that trim now gone, the Versa lineup only uses Nissan’s Xtronic CVT. That’s the same smooth, gearless system used in most other Nissan sedans today.

For many buyers, this is a big shift. The Versa was one of the last cars left with a basic stick-shift setup. Now, that door is closed.

Why Did Nissan Discontinue the Manual Transmission Option?

The 2025 Nissan Versa discontinued its five-speed manual for reasons that make sense from a business perspective. This change was not random. It was part of a larger plan.

Nissan shared that it wants to focus on the trims that sell best. The manual version made up less than five percent of all Versa sales in 2024. That’s about 2,000 out of more than 42,000 cars sold.

Nissan stated it is working to meet customer demand and improve how it builds cars. Fewer choices mean faster builds and lower cost. The stick-shift trim, while fun for some, was too slow to sell.

Here’s a clear breakdown of why the manual was dropped:

• Low demand: Most buyers chose the automatic version
• Better sales focus: Nissan wants to build what sells most
• Ease of use: More people like the smooth drive of a CVT
• Simpler build process: Fewer trims make it easier to plan and ship cars

For drivers who enjoyed a manual, this might feel like a loss. But from Nissan’s view, it helps the Versa stay strong in a fast-changing market.

How Do Import Tariffs Factor into the 2025 Nissan Versa Discontinuation?

The Nissan Versa five-speed manual discontinued in 2025 didn’t happen only because of sales. Tariffs played a role, too. The Versa is made in Mexico. And in recent years, that has come with a cost.

The U.S. placed a 25% import tax on cars built in Mexico. That meant each manual-equipped Versa cost more for Nissan to bring into the country. For a trim already sold at low prices, the extra cost made it harder to keep up.

Nissan had to evaluate whether it made sense to continue producing the Versa manual, especially given its challenges. 

These included:

• Low sales
• Rising production costs due to tariffs
• A price point that was hard to sustain.

That answer became clear. Dropping the manual trim helped Nissan avoid building a car that no longer made business sense.

Here’s what the numbers show:

• Manual Versa base price: around $18,330
• Tariff added about $4,500 in cost
• Nissan had to absorb much of that added cost to stay competitive

With that much pressure, the company made a smart choice. The Versa with the manual just wasn’t worth the extra cost anymore.

What Does the 2025 Nissan Versa Lineup Look Like Now?

If you’re shopping for a Nissan Versa with a manual transmission for sale, you’ll need to act fast, or look used. As of 2025, the only Versa trims now offered use Nissan’s Xtronic CVT automatic.

This means the base S trim with the 5-speed manual is no longer available. The Versa still offers multiple trims, but the shift is clear as all models now come with just one transmission option.

Here’s what’s available in 2025:

• Versa S (now CVT only)
• Versa SV
• Versa SR

All use the same fuel-efficient setup. The CVT helps push fuel economy up to 35 MPG combined.

If you’re near Lancaster or Palmdale and want a stick-shift Versa, check with your dealer soon. Some 2024 models may still be available in local stock. But after mid-2025, no new Versas will come with a manual.

So, what does this mean for shoppers?

• No new manual models in 2025 or beyond
• Fewer options for low-priced new sedans
• More focus on automatic and tech features in newer models

The Versa is still a strong pick for value and space. But for drivers who love to shift gears on their own, it’s time to search the used lot or act quickly before the last ones are gone.

Are Manual Transmission Cars Still in Demand in Southern California?

In recent years, driver habits have changed. Fewer people are choosing stick-shift cars. This includes buyers in Southern California cities like Lancaster, Palmdale, Lakeview, and Acton.

The Nissan Versa discontinued its manual option for a simple reason. Almost no one was buying it. In 2024, less than five percent of Versa sales were manuals. That’s about 2,000 cars out of more than 42,000.

For most drivers, the CVT or automatic option is easier. In traffic, automatics require less work. For long drives, they offer smooth, quiet shifts. These are big pluses for people driving in busy areas like Los Angeles County.

Here are the key reasons stick-shifts are fading:

• Most buyers prefer ease of use
• Automatics have better fuel savings than before
• Many drivers don’t know how to drive a manual
• Cities and traffic make shifting gears harder

So, even though a small group still likes manual cars, the demand is too low to keep them in stock. The Versa followed this trend. It’s now built to meet what most buyers want.

What Are the Technical Advantages of Going Fully Automatic?

The 2025 Nissan Versa discontinued the manual trim and focused only on its CVT models. This shift wasn’t just about sales. It came with some technical perks, too.

Nissan’s Xtronic CVT helps the Versa save gas, drive smoother, and run with fewer parts that wear out. The fuel savings are big. The CVT version gets up to 35 MPG combined, which matches or beats the manual model.

Let’s look at the key benefits of dropping the manual:

The Versa with a CVT helps more drivers feel at ease. Whether driving through Palmdale’s city streets or cruising on the 14 Freeway, an automatic transmission offers one less thing to worry about.

How Does This Affect the Versa’s Place in the Subcompact Market?

The discontinuation of the Nissan Versa's five-speed manual reshapes how the car is positioned in its class. For years, the Versa S with a manual was the most affordable new car in the U.S., a simple, budget-friendly option known for low maintenance costs.

Now that it only comes with a CVT, the Versa shifts closer to the middle of the subcompact group. It still offers a good price and solid fuel savings, but it no longer owns the “lowest-priced car” spot.

This change may affect:

• Entry-level buyers: Fewer low-cost, no-frills options
• Driving fans: Fewer stick-shift cars to choose from
• Fleet and value shoppers: More focus on comfort and tech

But the good news is this: The Versa is still a smart pick. It’s fuel-friendly. It’s roomy for a small car. And it gives buyers great value, just with an automatic now instead of a manual.

Are Any Other Nissan Models Offered with a Manual in 2025?

If you’re looking for a Nissan Versa with a manual transmission for sale, you should know this: the 2025 Versa was the last Nissan in the U.S. with a manual gearbox. Now, that option is gone.

As of the 2025 model year, no Nissan vehicles in the U.S. offer a manual transmission. The decision to stop offering the stick shift in the Versa marked the end of manuals in Nissan’s standard lineup.

Let’s break it down:

• 2025 Versa S (manual): Discontinued
• Other 2025 Nissan models: CVT or automatic only
• Manuals in Nissan lineup: None in standard trims

There are no plans from Nissan to bring manuals back in its non-performance cars. All mainstream models now use automatic or CVT setups.

So, if you want a Versa with a manual, your best bet is:

• A used 2024 or older model
• A 2025 Versa S in dealer stock (if any are left)

Ask your local team at Antelope Valley Nissan. They can help check stock or show other great options.

Is Nissan Moving Away from Manual Transmissions for Good?

The Nissan Versa discontinued its manual trim in 2025. But this isn’t just a one-model move. It shows a clear shift in where Nissan is heading.

Manual gearboxes are now rare in the Nissan U.S. lineup. The Versa was the last model to use one, and its removal marks the end of an era.

So, what is Nissan focusing on now?

• Automatic and CVT options: These are what most people buy
• Fewer build types: This cuts costs and saves time
• Electric and hybrid systems: These don’t use manual setups at all

Electric cars like the Nissan LEAF or Ariya don’t need a clutch. They use single-speed or multi-mode electric systems. These offer a strong response without the need to shift gears.

In short, manuals don’t match Nissan’s goals in the U.S. Most drivers want ease, speed, and tech. The Versa was the last holdout, but now, that chapter has closed.

What Should Budget-Conscious Buyers Do Now?

The 2025 Nissan Versa discontinued its manual trim, which once gave buyers the lowest new-car price in the country. If you live near Lancaster, Palmdale, Lakeview, or Acton, you might be wondering what to do next.

There’s no doubt this change affects drivers looking for simple, low-cost cars. But there are still smart options for saving money, even without the manual Versa S.

Here’s what you can do right now:

• Ask about remaining 2025 Versa S models: Some dealers may still have the manual in stock.
• Check for used 2024 or earlier models: These may offer a great deal at a lower price point.
• Explore current CVT-equipped Versa trims: They still offer strong value and better fuel savings.
• Compare total cost of ownership: CVTs cost more upfront, but save money long-term with better MPG and lower upkeep.

The Versa is still one of the smartest buys in the subcompact market, it’s just a little different than before.

Why is Nissan discontinuing the 5-speed manual in the 2025 Versa?

Nissan discontinued the 5-speed manual due to very low demand, fewer than 5% of buyers chose it in 2024, and rising import tariffs increased costs. The company is focusing on more popular, higher-volume trims with automatic transmissions.

Will any other Nissan models still offer a manual transmission?

No. The 2025 Versa was the last Nissan model in the U.S. to offer a manual transmission. As of 2025, Nissan no longer offers any manual options in its mainstream lineup.

Is the 2025 Nissan Versa only available with an automatic now?

Yes. The entire 2025 Versa lineup uses Nissan’s Xtronic CVT automatic transmission. The manual option was removed mid-production in 2025.

How does removing the manual option affect the Versa's price or appeal?

Removing the manual option raised the base entry price slightly, since the lowest-cost manual trim is gone. However, it also aligns the Versa with consumer preference for automatics and improves fuel efficiency with the CVT. The impact on appeal is minimal, given low manual sales.

Explore Your Nissan Options Today

If you live near Lancaster, Palmdale, Lakeview, or Acton, Antelope Valley Nissan is here to help. Whether you want to find a Versa or check out other models, our team can guide you through your choices.

We offer a wide range of Nissan vehicles that fit many needs and budgets. For those interested in power, fuel efficiency, or comfort, there’s a Nissan for you.

If you want to learn more about Nissan’s lineup, you can visit pages about Nissan with V6 engines, the end of the V8 in the Armada, or the steering wheel noises you might hear.

You’re welcome to stop by or call us anytime. We’re ready to answer your questions and help you find the perfect Nissan. Your next vehicle is waiting, and we look forward to assisting you.

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