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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  LOVE the Hatchback - 2010 Nissan Versa
  By Aussie Mom - August 10 - 3:26 pm

  We have been looking and comparing cars for a while. We decided to test drive the Nissan Versa Hatchback. We drove the base model and then the SL. The SL model is the way to go. Ours has everything except the moonroof and navigation. I am really spoiled with all the extras. It is so quiet, and rides wonderfully. I have to watch my speed, because it feels like you are not moving that fast. There is so much room. We have 2 Aussies and lots of stuff and this can carry it all. It feels and looks like it should cost more!

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  Great gas mileage - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Great Summer vehicle - August 4 - 7:56 am

  When I first saw this vehicle I fell in love with its body style. The interior is great and I love how spacious it is. This vehicle gives great gas mileage. However,I live on Long Island and during the winter months it is very difficult to drive on ice and snow. It is also hard to control on windy days. It is a great vehicle for long summer drives.

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  Great looking econo car - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By 350Z Owner too - July 22 - 8:46 pm

  I own a 350Z and its gas hungry and I wanted something I could commute to work a few days a week to save on gas, but also travel in. I researched and came across the Versa. Its got a great interior design compared to comparable cars in its class. Its roomy and has great visibility all around, which is hard to say for the 350Z. I think this is a great buy for anyone looking for a good point A to B car to save on gas, but not feel like your driving a cheap tin can on wheels.

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  Cheap Materials - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By pinoybboy2004 - July 22 - 12:44 am

  Broken Springs Besides the fact that I overpaid for a whopping 3 year warranty the effort of Nissan to rectify any portion of this incident is non existent. It is sickening to think when I am driving that such a poor quality product is considered acceptable by Nissan. There are several complaints on forums and other consumer websites reporting this same safety issue with Versa springs sheering off completely. Dont let your family drive a Versa.

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  Great Family Car/Daily Driver in one - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Virginia Gentleman - July 18 - 5:13 pm

  Great car, cool looking, hatchback is cooler looking but I like the huge trunk room of the sedan. Rides great for econ car, better than most mid size cars. Lots of room for long legged people. Acceleration is good, not that I really care about that, the car has lots of options and standard options I like. Best looking car of its class, very modern look. It is Our 1st Nissan and so far we are very impressed. Easy to park, even in city. Ride is nice , I have a bad back so I feel all the bumps on the road and it is the only econ car that I have ridden in that doesnt cause me undue pain, and comfy seats, and head doesnt hit roof when on bumpy roads like some econ cars. THE BEST.

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  First New Car - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By fatal_degree - July 18 - 8:20 am

  This is my first ever never used car. The fuel economy is spot on estimate during the summer months. Under estimate in winter (bear in mind fuel mixtures are different in winter). I do mostly 55mph+ driving, with city errands and cruising on the weekends. First and second gear have good power for its size. Im always tearing up my tires. A lighter flywheel would make the shifting more responsive. After driving a series of beaters that lacked, power, heat, AC, floorboards and door windows that functioned, this little car is like a dream. Super quiet! I often have people ask me if its on. Spacious. Handles wind shear well... ever driven a tiny Ford Festiva in the wind? HUGE difference!

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  What the others are missing! - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By ted - July 16 - 4:06 am

  The Versa is a Renault design. Going all the way back to the Renault Dauphine, they are the only small cars I have ever seen with no front wheel well incursion into the passenger cabin. Not only can a tall driver stretch out, you also have lots of leg room side to side. It feels as comfortable and spacious as a Cadillac, to me. As I often rent cars to tour Europe, I am accustomed to the style and it is not goofy, to me. It is actually something distinctive. As the French invented front drive and have been making quality small cars for 50 years, I was ready for some Franco style and design in a Nissan package!

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  Nissan Versa 2007 - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Marc Weissman - July 11 - 9:46 am

  Overall very satisfied with handling and comfort of drive, especially in the snow. My wife loves it!

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  Worst car Ive ever owned - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Mary Ann - July 4 - 2:33 pm

  I get worse mileage than I got from the 17 year old Grand Am this car replaced. Cant even count the minor problems Ive had. Wouldnt recommend this car at any price.

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  So far so good - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By New Nissan Owner - July 2 - 3:10 am

  Well, I traded in my previous vehicle of 6 years, a 2002 Dodge Ram 1500. Do I really need to say more here? Ive only owned the car less than a week but this car is terrific. Its exactly what I was looking for. I was between this and the Honda Fit. The view from the Fits drivers seat felt like you were too far back-it just felt uncomfortable. Anyway, going from a vehicle with a mpg rating of 15/11 to 33/27 is certainly going to have an impact on my trips to the gas pump (or lack there of), not to mention how much less it will cost me per fill up. Im very pleased with its roominess, and the 1.8L CVT engine has more pep than most people will think. Spend the extra $$ for the SL if you can!