After struggling to have better sales for the first Tiida/Versa generation, launched during the world economic crisis, Nissan has decided to launch a second-generation for its small class sedan in 2011 as a 2012 model year.
Compared to the first generation, it received a curvier bodywork and more efficient engines.

The interior is very spacious despite the small exterior dimensions. The second generation of the Tiida was based on Nissan Sunny platform, instead of a Renault-Nissan Alliance common platform. The option offering was slim, with some light-alloy wheels, automatic climate control, central locking, on-board computer, and power windows. The power-steering was electro-hydraulically assisted.

With 505 liters (17.8 cu-ft) of luggage space even with the seats up, the sedan has a very big trunk, but the rear seats were foldable only on the higher trim levels.

It was available with one engine option, 1.6-liter gasoline naturally aspirated unit, which developed 106 hp. It was mated as standard with a 5-speed manual or, as an option, with a CVT (continuously variable transmission).

From the performance point of view, the Versa was slower than most of its class competitors but still was able to pay a good impression in town. The short overall length of 4.45 m (14.6 ft) helped the Versa to be nimble in cities and good in finding parking spots.