Nissan debuted a new hatchback version of its Versa, the all-new 2014 Versa Note at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The Versa Note is based on the company’s global "V" platform (in Japan the vehicle is called the “Note”) and is designed to provide the Versa lineup with a differently styled model that offers a mix of fuel efficiency, technology features and hatchback functionality.

The Versa note comes in three grades, S, S Plus and SV. The automaker also plans to offer three option packages: Convenience, SL and SL Technology.

Under the hood, each model comes with a 1.6L DOHC four-cylinder engine with dual fuel injection and Twin Continuously Variable Timing Control (CVTC). The Versa Note S model’s powertrain comes with a five-speed manual transmission, while the S Plus and SV models come standard with a Nissan Xtronic CVT transmission.

Nissan is forecasting fuel economy of 40 mpg highway, 31 mpg city, and 35 mpg combined for the CVT-equipped models.

Nissan said it styled the vehicle to help it stand out from other entry-level vehicles in the segment and improve fuel economy (CVT models have a coefficient drag of 0.298). It comes in eight colors, is equipped with halogen headlights and rear combination lights, though fog lights are available. Heated side-view mirrors are also an option.

Given that a hatchback is designed to provide extra cargo room, the Versa Note offers 21.4 cu. ft. of space in the cargo area. The 60/40 split rear seats fold down for more cargo room, and Nissan added a hidden space, accessible by lifting up the floor board in the back, underneath the cargo area.

Even though this is an entry-level vehicle, Nissan is offering its Around View Monitor, which uses four cameras on the front, sides and rear of the vehicle to give drivers a 360-degree view of what’s around the vehicle and them maneuver. This option, part of the SL Technology package, is a segment first, according to Nissan.

The SL Technology Package also offers the automaker’s NissanConnect, which includes a navigation system with the automaker’s NavTraffic and NavWeather. The system features a 5.8-inch touchscreen and provides hands-free text messaging, Bluetooth streaming audio, Pandora radio capability when the system is connected to an iPhone, Google-provides points of interest, and Google’s Send to Car feature. Nissan also offers a rear-view monitor, push-button ignition, an interface for USB-connected devices, and SiriusXM Radio as options.

Standard safety features on the Versa Note include dual-stage front supplemental air bags, front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags, roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags, stability and traction control (Nissan’s Vehicle Dynamic Control and Traction Control System), and TPMS with Nissan’s new Easy-Fill Tire Alert as an option.

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