Nissan Versa Note

Importing a used Nissan Versa Note from the USA

The Nissan Versa Note is a subcompact hatchback that made its name on interior space and running-cost frugality rather than performance. It is an unusual but rational import candidate: an inexpensive, easy-to-run American-market small car that can be a practical first import or a low-cost city runabout. USCar Trader handles these as a neutral broker — we source, verify and import the car and add no margin to the price. Here is an honest look at the Versa Note and what importing one from the USA involves.

From launch to today

The Versa Note arrived in the US for the 2014 model year as the hatchback counterpart to the Versa sedan, effectively the North American version of the global Nissan Note. It was built on Nissan's V-platform and stayed in the US lineup through the 2019 model year, when it was discontinued and the segment ceded to the Versa sedan and crossovers. A mid-cycle refresh around 2017 tidied the front-end styling and updated equipment. So a used Versa Note is a 2014–2019 car — simple, honest transport with no hybrid or turbo complications.

Engines and drivetrain in detail

Power comes from a single engine choice: the 1.6-litre HR16DE four-cylinder producing roughly 109 hp and about 107 lb-ft of torque, driving the front wheels. Most cars use Nissan's Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT); a five-speed manual was available on the base trim early in the run and is rare. This is a car engineered for economy — highway figures near 40 mpg were part of its appeal — not for acceleration. Expect relaxed, unstressed progress and low fuel bills.

Trim levels and variants

The Versa Note was sold only as a five-door hatchback. US trims ran from the basic S and S Plus through SV to the better-equipped SR and SL, the latter adding features such as alloy wheels, a rearview camera, NissanConnect infotainment, push-button start, and the clever "Divide-N-Hide" adjustable cargo floor. An SR or SL import gives you the most equipment for the least compromise.

Used availability in the USA

These cars were sold in large numbers as budget and fleet transport, so used supply is plentiful and mileage varies widely — from lightly used examples to high-mileage former commuters. Condition is the key variable: look for cars from dry southern states, avoid neglected high-mileage CVT cars, and prioritise documented service history. Because values are modest, a careful selection matters more here than on premium models.

When importing makes sense

The Versa Note suits a buyer who wants maximum practicality per euro, a genuinely spacious cabin in a small footprint, and minimal running costs. It is not a status import; it is a sensible, cheap-to-own hatchback, and the right candidate is a clean, well-maintained, lower-mileage car.

Facts and figures

Reliability and common problems

The 1.6 HR16DE engine is durable and undemanding, but the Xtronic CVT is the component to scrutinise. Some Nissan CVTs of this era have shown juddering, overheating and premature wear, especially when fluid changes were neglected — a slipping or shuddering test drive is a walk-away signal. Confirm the CVT fluid has been serviced and that the transmission behaves smoothly hot and cold. Beyond that, watch for suspension and steering wear on high-mileage cars, check the air conditioning, and inspect for corrosion on any salt-belt example. A well-kept Versa Note with a healthy CVT is a genuinely cheap car to run.

How US versions differ

US cars carry amber side markers, US lighting calibration and miles-based instruments. Infotainment on SR/SL trims is US-mapped. The practical TÜV items are headlight aim, a rear fog lamp where not fitted, and documenting the odometer conversion to kilometres. As a straightforward petrol hatchback, the Versa Note has no high-voltage or charging complications to address.

From US purchase to registration

Selection and inspection in the US, VIN and origin check, escrow payment, inland transport to the export port, ocean freight to Bremerhaven, German customs clearance, TÜV technical inspection and individual approval (§21), then local registration. We coordinate each step so the car arrives ready to register.

Costs, duty and taxes at a glance

Bottom line: what matters is the factory shown by the VIN – proven US origin unlocks 0% duty. The 19% import VAT always applies.

Two separate charges. Import duty: the 0% EU rate under Regulations (EU) 2026/1455 and 2026/1461 applies only with provable US origin (VIN/plant), for directly transported cars, until 31 December 2029. The Versa Note was generally built in Mexico, so it is typically not US-origin — the applicable duty rate depends on the actual plant shown by the VIN, and we never promise duty-free. Separately, the German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) of 19% always applies to every import, calculated on the customs value plus duty and freight.

TÜV, approval and license plates

Expect headlight aim adjustment, addition of a rear fog lamp if absent, and documentation of the mile-to-kilometre odometer conversion, followed by an individual approval. Once passed, you register the car locally for German plates. Modifications on a simple hatchback like this are minimal.

Pre-purchase checklist

Import FAQ

What engine does the Versa Note use?

A single 1.6-litre HR16DE four-cylinder with about 109 hp, driving the front wheels.

Which years are available used?

The US Versa Note ran from 2014 to 2019, so used cars fall in that range.

Is the CVT a problem?

It can be if neglected. We test it hot and cold and check fluid service history before recommending a car.

Do I pay import duty on a Versa Note?

Usually yes, because it is typically Mexican-built. The 0% EU rate needs provable US origin, so the rate depends on the VIN and plant.

Does the 19% import VAT always apply?

Yes. German import VAT applies to every import regardless of origin and is charged separately from any duty.

Is it worth importing such a cheap car?

It can be for a practical, low-cost runabout, provided you pick a clean, well-maintained example — selection is everything at this price.

Will it pass German TÜV?

Yes, after minor lighting work and an individual approval. It is a simple petrol hatchback.

Does USCar Trader mark up the price?

No. We are an independent broker charging a transparent service fee, not a vehicle margin.

Start here: browse Nissan in the Carhub, compare the related Nissan Versa, the Nissan Versa Sedan and the Nissan Sentra, or view the current Versa Note listings.