Sentra

Make
Nissan
Segment
Sedan

We're pretty confident no one is a big fan of the Nissan Versa sedan. Sure, it's decent basic transportation but it has zero personality. Nissan is hoping to change that somewhat with its new Versa Note, a handsome little five-door hatchback version of its bland sedan sibling. Powered by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder with an output of 109 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque, it's mated to either a standard five-speed manual or an optional continuously variable transmission that sends power to the front wheels.

And as one would expect from a car such as this, solid fuel efficiency was a main goal and its exterior was styled to help out with that. Aerodynamics played a key role and designers managed to give it a drag coefficient of 0.29. Because of this and its efficient engine, the Versa Note reportedly delivers a best-in-class 40 mpg highway, 31 mpg city and 35 mpg combined for CVT-equipped models. Other features include Nissan's Around View Monitor that provides drivers with a bird's eye view of what's happening outside, NissanConnect with navigation, hands-free text messaging, Bluetooth, and Pandora - all of which are located in a 5.8-inch touchscreen.

Its spacious interior is further expanded thanks to 60/40-split fold-down rear seats, creating a flat cargo area. Pricing is also very reasonable with base models starting off at just $13,900. Expect for the 2014 Versa Note to arrive in Nissan showrooms this summer.