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:

• 

  Love it! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By stephanie - May 7 - 11:53 pm

  Just hit 1000 miles. I went from an automatic Toyota Echo to the 6 speed Versa SL. The stick is easy to get used to and is so much fun to drive. The interior space is incredible and I love that I finally have a sunroof! MPG could be a bit better but highway miles are seeming to be about 35+ mpg (and it is getting better as I put more miles on). Also, the engine is not loud. I decided to get every option available. If youre looking for a small car with loads of extras for less, I would definitely say the Versa is the way to go.

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  Like the vehicle, but having problems - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By hjb0028 - May 3 - 1:30 am

  I love my Nissan!! This car drives great and has SO much head and foot room!! It has plenty of cup holders and gets great gas mileage. I also love how sleek it looks on the outside!!! I have had some problems with it however. My starter is going out for the 2nd time, I have had to have my fuel pump changed already, and I am always having hubcaps fall off… about 7 so far. Thank goodness for my warranty!! Other than that though I love my car. It is so relaxing and comfortable to drive. The trunk has plenty of room also. My dealership has been the best I have ever had. They have been extremely friendly and has work well with me.

• 

  this car is 5 stars - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By senojdr2 - May 1 - 3:50 pm

  For the price this car wont be equaled, any time soon. I have tested mileage, and got 32.5 city, 33.5 with both. I am sure of even higher mileage on highway. Any one looking for great quality comfort ride wont be disappointed! The sedan I now drive is the overall best car I have ever owned. I am 75, and have seen my share of cars. Try and buy.

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  Nissan on top again - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By bscanlan - April 23 - 7:06 am

  The Versa is a well desinged, well built and most importantly well though out vehicle. Nissan has done it again. The car drives beautifully gets great gas mileage and makes you feel as though you are in a luxury car, not an econobox. I heavily researched toe Yaris and Fit, Civic and Corolla. The Versa was the best overall choice, and oh yeah...the best price apple to apples. Dont hesitate.

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  Fun to Drive - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By no1popz - April 4 - 3:26 am

  After 7,500 miles driving my Versa during the last 6 months I can say without hesitancy that this is the best little car I have ever owned, and I have owned lots of them from Mercedes to Ford. Its fun to drive and comfortable to ride in. Gas mileage isnt quite as advertised - the best so far 32 MPG on the highway. I am amazed that I dont see more of them on the road. I traded a PT Cruiser for this and Im glad I did.

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  Leave my expensive cars at home drive the fun one - 2016 Nissan Versa
  By Daybud - April 2 - 1:54 am

  Last October my cousin and I were looking for a small car for him. We ended up at a Nissan dealership and he bought a 2015 versa with roll up windows and no power door locks. I warned him about those getting old and so I started doing my research. I found aftermarket door locks and power windows. The door locks are cable activated so make sure you have someone who can install them correctly. Fast forward to July 2016 and Im wishing I had a stick shift car because its been a long time since Ive had one. I liked the Versa we got for my cousin so I took a gander. Dealerships in my area are tacking $5,000 on to the window sticker as dealer mark up but an advertised special caught my eye. The sticker was $13,185 and they were advertising one only at $8,975. so I swooped in and bought it. Two months later I have only driven my infiniti once and the Pilot three times. Love this little car. Yes, I added the power windows and the door locks to this too. I was looking for a good navigation deck but everyone tells me to use my smart phone. I dont have a lot of money and am retired but I was able to get good financing and so for $200 per month $300 including my insurance bill I also opted for the prepaid maintenance on the car. The car lacks the acceleration of my other vehicles but also gets about 10 miles more per gallon so Im retired not in any hurry. Very comfortable roomy inside and

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  Nice...But. - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By R. Perez - April 1 - 4:53 pm

  I waited Several months to get this vehicle. Overall it was worth the wait. I am 511" and the comfort of the interior seating is ok... but the steering wheel is small and skinny. My hands and arms get tired. Pull out power is sluggish. No pep. Car is a little jerky feeling. Slightest movements on the wheel will move your body in the car. Engine is somewhat noisy, especially when you turn the OD off. I keep changing channels on my raido when I make turns...Bumping the switch on the steering wheel. I drive the car everyday. I love the exterior look, but not all that happy with the vehicle itself.

• 

  Horrible little car!! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Evan Grant - April 1 - 11:06 am

  I have had this car for 2 years. Of those two years, both were riddled with problems. The factory tires needed replacing at 8,000 miles, the brake rotors needed replacing at 14,000 miles, the check engine light came on at 18,000 miles, and the CVT is wayyy over-rated. Its not fun being on a highway at 70mph and not being able to hear people in the same car! The mpg is way worse than predicted by the window sticker, the best I got for city was 25, but highway mileage was ok at about 30. The sticker said 31 city and 34 highway. I wouldnt suggest this car for someone buying new in order to avoid repair costs. This thing is like an iceberg in snow. You go with the road.

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  was ok at first - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By dc - March 26 - 4:46 am

  The car was great at first. Fuel regulator replaced twice. Three visits for air conditioning. Parts were on national back order 2wks. Two weeks with out air in fla. They didnt want to put me in a rental, but did. Now some really. Weird noises when I accelerate. Appt tomorrow. A few other minor things no big. Will not buy another Nissan. To many problems with this one.

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  Happy driver - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By essdee - March 19 - 6:19 am

  We bought the Versa in 2009 in the cash for clunkers program in exchange for an Previa (which had served us very well for 18 years and 225,000 miles) and have done about 30,000 varied miles in the Nissan. It has been trouble free, pretty economical, easy to park in little spaces, a good load carrier and enjoyable to drive. Interior space is generous and the seats are very comfortable but the stowage space around the driver is a bit limited and there is not really anywhere to rest your elbows. Overall build quality is high but the plastic around the heater controls has started to rot. I also find the blue "cold engine" warning light unnecessary and at night easy to confuse with high beam.