2014 Nissan Versa priced at $12,780

The 2014 Nissan Versa with a five-speed manual transmission -- at dealerships today -- will set you back $12,780, including $790 for destination. Stepping down to a four-cog automatic will cost a grand more.

For that price -- the lowest in America, by the way, more on that later -- buyers get a 1.6-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, available air conditioning, six-way adjustable driver's seat, and a radio with an auxiliary input. The manual also returns 27 mpg in the city and 36 on the highway.

Upgrades include 16-inch wheels, 4.3-inch audio display, split-folding rear seats and a key fob trunk release. The Convenience package adds Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, map lights and a split-folding rear seat. The Tech package adds navigation, satellite radio, USB port and more.

Power is the same as last year, 109 hp and 107 lb-ft of torque. A four-speed automatic is offered, as well as a CVT.

The Nissan Versa tops the list of America's cheapest cars. It's followed by the Chevy Spark at $12,995; Smart ForTwo Pure at $13,240; Ford Fiesta S at $13,995 and the Kia Rio LX at $14,350.

By Jake Lingeman