Overview & Reviews

Like other vehicles in the growing subcompact segment, the Nissan Versa offers excellent fuel economy and available upmarket features while remaining very affordable. The current Versa also distinguishes itself with two available body styles -- the sedan and the Versa Note hatchback (reviewed separately) -- as well as one of the biggest backseats this segment will ever see. It's an adequate choice as an entry-level vehicle, though drivers looking for any degree of excitement or personality are advised to look toward the Versa's competition.

Current Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa sedan is offered in S, S Plus, SV and SL trim levels. The S is about as basic as it gets, providing steel wheels, air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat and a two-speaker sound system. The S Plus gets a rear spoiler, cruise control and four-speaker audio. The SV adds alloy wheels, a folding rear seat and higher-quality interior trim. The SL boasts larger alloy wheels, keyless ignition and entry, Bluetooth and a USB/iPod input. Some of the SL's features are optional on the SV. The SL is eligible for additional technology features, including a navigation system and a touchscreen interface.

Power comes from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the base S trim level, while a four-speed automatic transmission is optional. The other trims come standard with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which greatly improves the car's fuel economy.

In reviews, we've found the Nissan Versa's tall roof line allows for a huge amount of interior space. Headroom in particular is extraordinary. There's also ample legroom, even in back, where 6-footers can miraculously ride in comfort. Cargo space is similarly impressive, with the trunk outdoing those of several larger cars. Materials quality, however, is underwhelming.

As a daily driver, the Versa provides pleasant enough service. It's a sensible sort of car, with an uncommonly cushy ride for a subcompact. The 1.6-liter engine doesn't like to be rushed, but it remains reasonably civilized in normal operation. If you're looking for a little flair or excitement, something like a Chevrolet Sonic or Ford Fiesta will probably be a better choice, as they provide more involving handling and distinctive styling.

Used Nissan Versa Models
The current, second-generation Nissan Versa sedan debuted for the 2012 model year. The current Versa's dimensions are largely unchanged from those of its predecessor, but the car is considerably more fuel-efficient. If you're shopping for a used current-generation Versa sedan, keep in mind that the 2013 model received a handful of additional standard and optional features. There have been no major changes, though.

The first-generation Nissan Versa sedan was produced from 2007-'11, and there was also a Versa hatchback (now known as the Versa Note) offered from 2007-'12. Originally, every Versa sedan and hatchback came standard with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder that produced 122 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission was standard. A four-speed automatic transmission was optional on the base Versa S trim, while a CVT was optional on the more upscale SL. For 2009, the SL sedan came standard with the four-speed automatic, while the SL hatchback got the CVT standard.

Another, more significant revision occurred for '09 when Nissan added a pair of even cheaper entry-level sedan models: the 1.6 Base and 1.6. As the number suggests, it had a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produced 107 hp and 111 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual was standard and the four-speed automatic was optional. These 1.6 models had even fewer features than the 1.8 (air-conditioning and a radio were options).

It's important to note that antilock brakes were optional on all trims until 2010, when they became standard. ABS was always optional on the 1.6 variants. We highly recommend making sure a used Versa has this important safety feature.

We liked the original-generation Nissan Versa's spacious, comfortable and well-equipped cabin. We also found the 1.8-liter Versa to be surprisingly peppy and comfortable to drive. The CVT did a commendable job of getting the car up to speed on the highway; however, the six-speed manual made better use of the 1.8-liter engine's power reserves, so we recommend it to buyers who don't mind doing their own shifting.

As for the 1.6, it actually wasn't the downgrade you'd think it would be given its lower power. A sprint from zero to 60 mph still was accomplished in less than 10 seconds with the manual, and it rarely felt overwhelmed on the road. It's not the most pleasant-sounding engine in the world, however. Regardless of engine, this Versa suffered on rough roads, with the wheels tending to hop over obstructions rather than settling quietly back into place.

User Reviews:

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  Would not buy another one - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Zane - January 21 - 6:10 pm

  I have had the Versa for about 4 months; I would not buy another one. This car has been back to the dealer several times to fix small problems. It has several flaws that are important to me. One the AC is undersized for Florida, when out in the heat you need to put the air flow to recycle to keep the cabin cool. Although the noise level when running is the lowest of the other cars I test drove; it is the loudest car I ever be in when you accelerate. Last but not least. The driver’s side window wiper is about twice the size of the passenger side, and it throws its water on to the passenger side. Thus in the rain the passenger side is never clear.

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  Good car, but needs some improvements - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By DVBs Daughter - January 18 - 9:20 am

  I really enjoy "Scarlet." The car is responsive and easy to handle (except in really strong winds). I like the design. Its quiet inside with the windows closed. The radio is surprisingly good, and the cabin is spacious and roomy. Overall, very satisfied, and the areas of improvement would make it a FANTASTIC car!

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  Where is Nissans quality? - 2010 Nissan Versa
  By Nissanjunk - January 11 - 7:56 pm

  I purchased this vehicle NEW 2 days ago. Within 10 miles I had brake pedal feedback/shudder. At 200 miles, the brakes shudder so hard that the steering wheel almost shakes your hand off of it. The A/C compressor was cycling in/out way too often. Check engine light on at 225 miles. Took it to the dealer today - Updates as of current: 1) Front rotors are warped 2) A/C compressor is shot, needs to be replaced 3) "We havent had a chance to find out what the service engine soon light issue is, nor have we found the source of the odd howling noise. This is the 2nd Nissan that has had ridiculous issues, but this one is only 36 HOURS OLD!

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  Versa 1.8SL CVT - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Leon - January 8 - 10:50 am

  Vehicle is well designed for a car this size. Drives well and is peppy on a road. Handles turns well. Fuel economy is decent but is not at par with the Nissans estimate of 36 miles/gallon. The best I got so far is 31 mi/g, but the car only has 1500 miles on it so far. Was told it will improve with time. Very comfortable to drive long distance. Sunroom does not make much noise when driving, unlike Murano. Do not waste your money on a Rockford Fosgate upgrade, it has no range on Bass and the sound on a regular stereo is decent. CVT is flawless!

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  Versa style - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By cvs80 - January 3 - 12:36 pm

  I have had the Versa for two weeks and I have enjoyed driving it both in the city and on the highway. It has great pick up entering, and I had no problem keeping up. It has a comfortable ride, and I didnt notice any noise problems while on the highway.

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  Same songe, two Versa(s) - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By DD - December 21 - 8:46 pm

  I bought my son a 2007 Versa Hatchback about a week ago; I loved it. I bought one for myself two days ago, a 2009 with 6k on it, with every option but a skating rink! (No fog lights, really.) The car has smooth acceleration and deceleration, good cornering, and is wonderfully quiet. Of all the small cars I looked at--Matrix, Corolla, Scion XB, XD, Nissan Sentra--the Versa has the very best leg room in the back. I just filled up yesterday, so Im not sure about gas mileage Ill get.

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  Fourth Nissan car - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By ACORRADO - December 21 - 4:56 pm

  This will be my 4th Nissan car. I have had a Sentra and 2 Altimas and got them all new and now a 2009 Versa! Never had any problems with any of them, general care, tires @ 70,000 miles and old change on a regular basis. My Versa car was purchased for the price and gas prices for driving to work. Its just me and my husband. Versa base model with no extras no power locks,no power windows, etc. I researched all the other types of small cars in this area with about the same conclusion. Versa! 500 miles great car. Design area: No place to put your right arm while driving. Light in car not good for front light for people in the front seat. All in all good car for the price and gas needs.

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  Great Car for the Price - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By George - December 16 - 2:16 am

  Drive 50 miles each way to work. My ride back home is almost uphill the whole way. With a 1.8L 4cyl engine i was not sure it would pull the mountains. This car has no problem on the hills with two people. After you break in the motor it runs even better. On the test drive it feels a little under powered.

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  Hot Car, took forever to get - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By STUD - December 7 - 11:00 pm

  I just got my Nissan Versa, black of course, and it is the best car i have ever had the pleasure to drive. The quality and performance of the car should have raised the price, but Nissan is selling it for around 14K. The only problem i have with this car is the time it took to get. I waited, but Nissan delivered; however, I am still waiting for my floor mats. Whatever ... this is the most sporty and fuel efficient car i have ever driven

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  Realistic expectaiton still to much to meet for this car - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By manycars1 - December 6 - 2:03 pm

  Just hit 68k and the CVT is shot. First thing to give me problems were the breaks at about 12k. From there is was heat shields on the exhaust to door seals. I bought this car to get back and forth to work (150mile round trip). All I expected was a affordable car to get me to and from work at the most reasonable cost. I purchased the Nissan after comparing it to my normally purchased vehicles and it was a better value, it actually exceeded in over all space in a real world comparison to Chevy and Ford. MPG avg is 37.1 but the 10.9 tank.....10 gal usable, keeps me at the gas station every 2 to 3 days. As of now it is dead in my driveway, will not move.