While Nissan keeps itself busy with advanced powertrain technologies and the imminent arrival of the new Z sports car, one model has continued flying under the radar. That's none other than the Nissan Versa. Although vastly improved over the previous-generation model, the new one's biggest trump card is its high-value price tag that makes it one of the cheapest ways to get behind the wheel of a new car. The 2022 Nissan Versa is now on sale and is a carryover model with no changes. The good news is that while it has received a price hike, it's been marginal.

The base Versa S with a five-speed manual gearbox now starts at $15,080, a small $350 increase over last year's model. That's less than the optional 20-inch forged magnesium wheels cost on the new Porsche Cayman GT4 RS. All other models have the Xtronic CVT transmission, starting with the S at $16,750. The SV costs $17,890 and the SR goes for $18,490. For the range-topping SR, the price has only increased by $250.

If you're on the lookout for a cheaper four-door sedan in the US, you simply won't find it. The 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 gets close at $15,295, but that's 2021 model year pricing and the G4 is very unlikely to get less expensive for the 2022 model year. The 2022 Hyundai Accent begins at $16,645.

It all means that the Nissan Versa continues to offer tremendous value, especially for a sedan that looks good, is extremely efficient, and which offers lots of safety features for the money. For example, the SV trim and above get blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. All models come with cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, remote keyless entry, and a seven-inch touchscreen display. Only the base S misses out on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It won't get your pulse racing with its 122-horsepower 1.6-liter engine, but the value-conscious Versa is a reminder that simple, reliable, and fuss-free motoring still exists.