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 buy it again! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By RA - June 22 - 3:23 pm

  I have had my 2007 Nissan Versa Hatchback S for a little over half a year now and if I had to do it over Id buy it again. Have been very impressed with the car and would recommend it highly. I also investigated the Honda Fit, Chevy Cobalt, Saturn Ion and just felt that the Versa represented the best value for the money. I just love that it is an "economy car" that doesnt look economy. The value of the interior space cannot be overstated. I have an infant carseat in the back and my wife can still sit comfortable in front passengers seat. It isnt the sexiest car on the road, but it does the job well.

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  A Bargain Worth Driving - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By sdaigle - June 13 - 2:48 pm

  At the time of writing this, Ive owned my 2012 Versa SV sedan for 4mos. and have driven it 11,000 miles. So far, its been a fantastic little car and I love it! Fuel economy has proven much better than the EPA rating of 30/38. My lowest MPG on a tank was 39 and my highest was 49. Seriously! I have my little quibbles with the car, but what car is perfect, right?

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  Super Fun Ride!!! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Connecticut - June 11 - 8:06 pm

  This car is so much fun to drive! Every time I get in it I am smiling!! It has plenty of get up and go, and you need to keep your eye on the speedometer, or you will be exceeding the speed limit without knowing it!! Smooth, quiet ride, and handles great!!! LOVE IT!!!

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  So far so good - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Tanyarmorris - June 9 - 5:23 pm

  I went from having a Jeep Wrangler with a 4 inch lift to this little car at my husbands suggestion (saving $ on fuel, of course). I was extremely hesitant until I drove the car. Its fun to drive with plenty of room for my kids and a trunk large enough to fit several bodies in.

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  Great run-about. Cute and comfortable. - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By cholmes92 - June 6 - 10:20 am

  This car is quiet and refined, something not usually found in this class. I love the ride (long wheel base makes the car feel bigger). The hatchback is practical although without the seats folded, the trunk is not very big (big enough for 6 or 7 bags of groceries). Rear seat area is roomy and comfortable for 2 large adults. Best gas mileage is achieved without passengers and cargo: I get 32 mpg on my commute (11 miles each way; half is city, half is hwy.) Controls are easy to use although the satellite channel surfing took a bit of getting used to. Excellent sound system. Quiet engine. Fun and peppy!

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  A Fun, Dependable, Economical Ride - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By merlin8735 - June 5 - 9:30 pm

  We have owned our Versa for two years and have 29800 miles on it. We have the 1.8SL Hatchback with CVT. This is not a bland econo box. The CVT is seamless at all power levels and makes the car fun to drive, especially in traffic on the interstate. Highest Hwy mileage has been 36, but average is 31. Combined mileage is 29. The car handles snow and ice very well. The car is comfortable with minimal road noise. The only thing about the car we dont like is the ventilation. Even with a new cabin filter. Most of our miles on the car have been on the highway at speeds well over the speed limit. The car is a blast to drive and we would gladly buy another one.

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  Great car for the price! - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By kawh - May 29 - 5:56 am

  I sold my Prius to take advantage of the ca hov sticker value. Bought the versa as a "bridge" car until the electric hybrid comes along (hopefully). Am not disappointed. Am getting about 30 mpg combined, which is good as I drive a lot of country and hilly roads. Quiet ride. Love that the seats go flat for hauling items. Got it loaded for under 12,000. Did well in the high mountains on a recent road trip - enough power to feel confident on a crowded freeway. BASIC interior inoffensive. Negatives - need more storage spaces in front and cup holders are cramped. Radio is difficult to tune to new stations. Thats about it. Wish it got 45 mpg... Ah, well.

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  I downsized - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Buddy - May 22 - 5:30 am

  Surprised at the handling and perkiness. Previous car was a Cadillac Sedan De Ville. The Versa is not as comfortable as the caddy but is more fun to drive. Very responsive, easy to park, twice the gas mileage

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  think before buying Nissan - 2010 Nissan Versa
  By toyosta - May 9 - 7:03 pm

  I am very upset for having made mayor mistake in buying this car. It rattles badly, has terrible fuel economy, is uncomfortable to drive, the price is not competive with other small sedans. I do not know what I was thinking when I bought this. I would only buy a Toyota or a Chevy next time.

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  yall come on now - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By worldismine - May 9 - 4:20 am

  I am at 9000 miles at just 6 months. so you know I am driving this car. I drive 42 miles round trip to work and take trips when I can. I love this car. It is 90 degrees now and I am comfortable with the air. I have only driven it on setting three once or twice. I usually drive with it on the first setting after letting the hot air out. I have moved an office in it so I know it has plenty of space. It is very comfortable for anyone sitting in the back. I drove 211 miles at 85 miles without stopping and got good gas mileage and made really great time. This will get you where you want to go. It might not be the fanciest car out there but for the price. It is hard to beat. Artic Blue my fav!