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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  Small car with a big car feel - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Charlie Jensen - February 8 - 5:43 am

  I was looking for a good gas mileage car to replace my old gas hog, and hadnt even heard about the Versa. After driving a Sentra (which I thought was cramped and slow) the salesman suggested the Versa. I loved this car as soon as I drove it. Others in the class dont even compare in terms of interior room, quiet & smooth ride, and a surprisingly peppy 1.8L engine. I chose the SL line with 6M, but I also drove the CVT, which was very cool. Lots standard features on the SL. The convenience package & audio upgrade package are worth considering. Materials and workmanship are excellent. If youre looking for a great commuter car thats a great ride and fun to drive, the Versa is a great choice.

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  Annoying and Reliable - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Jessica H. - January 29 - 5:58 pm

  The best things about this car are how reliable it is and the decent gas mileage. I use the CD player a lot for audio books, and it is also easy to park because it is small. But thats where the good stuff ends for me. The plastic steering wheel is very slippery. For me, a steering wheel cover is a must. Every day I wish the car had power locks and windows. I hate that to open the hatchback I have to manually unlock the driver door. I hate the extremely poor lighting inside the cab. I have to use a flashlight to see anything inside the car at night (except for the panels that light up only when the headlights are on). All four of the hubcaps fell off during driving. Road noise is extremely loud on the highway. I feel every little bump in the road. I didnt realize how much that bothered me until one day I started swerving around manhole covers in the street to stop from jarring myself. The A/C freezes my fingers on the steering wheel, but thats as far as it goes towards cooling the cab. Im on my second key, and its starting to feel mushy because of all the wear it gets from unlocking the door so many times a day. The Versa keys are the expensive $80 keys. The brakes, although good, make squeaky noises when backing up (like, out of the driveway). The car also makes squealing noises when making tight turns (like, in a parking lot). Ive been driving it to-and-from work and around-town for five years now, and all the little annoyances have finally gotten me to start looking for a new car.

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  Great car so far only 6 months in - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Aidan - January 24 - 9:20 am

  Compared to my former car a late 90s escort this is a whole different class of vehicle lol. Acceleration is good with the manual even with the A/C on. Cabin is very nice, roomy and mostly quality plastics are used. I dont like the A/C/Heat knobs they feel weak. Tons of storage with the back seats down. Im getting on average 30 mpg best is around 32 worst being 28! Stereo is decent as are the speakers, glove box has tons of storage & there are tons of other places to hide stuff! Overall for what I paid I feel I got more than what the competition had on offer if you just want to go from home to work and back. Even on the interstate this car was comfortable, solid and quiet at speed.

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  Dont wast your dough. Keep looking - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By rigner - January 22 - 5:53 pm

  Ive had my Versa since September and its been in the shop twice and its going back next week. ECU issues followed by a window that is not working at this time. Granted, this is one of the few cars where my 5 foot 9 inch son can comfortably sit in the back seat. However the build quality is suspect. The CVT is jerky and noisy. Road noise is a pain and lower and mid level models dont even have folding rear seats or variable speed wipers for mist etc. Also there is no arm rest. I would suggest getting nice used car rather than buying this thing new. Id sell it if I could. Keep looking. The Versa is OK for the most basic transportation, nothing else

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  Very nice car for the money! - 2010 Nissan Versa
  By easter00 - January 16 - 8:30 am

  My wife had a 2002 Subaru Forester and it was time to get her a new car. She loved the Forester so I knew that it was going to be difficult finding her something she would like as well. After looking at the Honda Fit, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Matrix, and VW Golf, there was no question that the Versa was the right car for her. She absolutely loves the car, especially the unique Espresso Black color, which is actually a dark brown. The gas mileage is tremendous and it is really fun to drive. I would recommend spending a bit extra to get the SL package as it is much more comfortable and the standard options it comes with make the driving experience better.

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  Love it - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Marisa - January 14 - 10:56 am

  This car has been a pleasure to own and drive. I have a long commute every day and this vehicle very comfortable-- smooth ride, spacious, comfy seats, low cabin noise. This car has TONS of trunk/storage room, way more than I expected and also has lots of head room. It does great with gas mileage and has plenty of pick-up on the highway. The SL is definitely worth the extra money. It has a much nicer interior and a center console (S does not).

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  Accident Prone - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By ameliaclaire - January 13 - 3:01 am

  I was recently in a terrible wreck in my Versa. The car was totaled and all I suffered was a broken nail from the air bag. This car is incredibly safe and comfortable! As soon as I found it was totaled I told my mom that I needed help looking for another one, possibly a newer one. I absolutely love my Versa!

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  First car - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By John - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Its a simple little car nothing special but I have gotten from girls that its cute and they like it. It even has a cute name. Great for the price.

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  Cons - 2016 Nissan Versa
  By Christine - December 28 - 10:26 pm

  Ok.. I had this thing for a week. All the Cons everyone is saying I dont find it with the one I purchased. The Engine isnt sluggish it isnt noisy.. I cant hear the dang thing run.. Nissan is one of the better quality cars out there at a re seasonable price. This Car does have a lot of pick up an go!!. This one customer is extremely happy. Ive had Nissans before an Ive never been happier owning them in the past.

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  Would have happily paid MSRP- Great Car! - 2011 Nissan Versa
  By ryanclowe29 - December 26 - 10:13 pm

  About the 1.6L engine- Here in the U.S it is positioned as the less attractive engine for the lowest trim levels. But the truth is, the 1.6L is the largest engine in a family of engines that excel in fuel economy, and most Versas around the world (called Tiida elsewhere) get the thrifty 1.6L(including all Canadian sedans). The 1.8L isnt related; its a de-stroked Sentra 2.0L. The EPA ratings for the 1.6 seem artificially low. I consistently get 36 MPG combined. A light foot brings 40-42 MPG hwy @ <70 MPH. Ideally Id want more top end HP, but the torque curve is better than I expected. 5sp gearing gets you to 45 MPH quickly. Smooth little engine with nice exhaust note makes this car fun