Last week, Nissan announced it will ax the ancient Tsuru sedan from its Mexican lineup next year. This appalling crash test had a lot to do with the decision.

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The impact is absolutely terrifying, completely obliterating the Tsuru. Aside from the wheel well intrusion, which would destroy the driver’s legs, the frame twists to much that the driver’s head strikes the windshield pillar. That would surely be a fatal blow. It’s doubtful any other passengers would have fared much better, especially as the entire center stack is ejected from the dashboard and ricochets around the cabin like a bullet.

By contrast, the Versa’s modern safety cage stands up to the test very well. It’s still an ugly impact, but the driver is held in place and cushioned by the front and side airbags, and there is no visible cabin intrusion or deformation. The driver would likely walk away from the wreck, rattled and a bit sore, but otherwise fine.