The United States No Longer Sells New Cars Below $20,000

A few days ago, the media reported the announcement of the American branch of Nissan: “In accordance with Nissan’s strategy, the production of the Nissan Versa model for the American market will stop in December 2025.” At first glance, it’s the usual information regarding the Japanese company’s model policy, but the withdrawal of the Versa has far-reaching consequences for the world’s second-largest market.

Namely, the departure of the Versa means that there is no longer a model that costs less than $20,000 on the American new car market. Customers still have a chance to purchase the Versa from remaining stock at a starting price of $19,190, which does not include shipping costs. Buying the most expensive version of this 4-door model will cost $21,390.

Nissan’s compact sedan debuted in 2019 in its current form. It is sold under different names depending on the market: in Southeast Asia, it is known as the Almera, in the Middle East, the model is marketed as the Sunny, and in North and South America, it is the Versa. Following the departure of the Mitsubishi Mirage last year, the 1.6-litre gasoline-powered Versa (124 hp) became the cheapest new car in the US.

For American buyers who want an affordable Nissan car, the Japanese company suggests choosing between the sedans Sentra (starting price $22,600) and Altima (starting price $27,000) and the compact SUVs Kicks Play (starting price $21,520) and Kicks ($22,430)

The title of the cheapest new car of the 2026 model year on the American market was taken by the Hyundai Venue compact SUV, which costs at least 20,550 dollars without transportation costs. The most affordable sedan is the Kia K4, with a starting price of $22,190, while the 5-door hatchback costs $24,890.

• Also See: United States Tariffs Hurt Toyota’s Earnings