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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  This is a nice car - 2013 Nissan Versa
  By dqdave - October 2 - 10:03 pm

  1) Comfortable. 2) Practical. 3) Good gas Mileage. 4) Nice Drive. 5) Not a lot of power. But, enough power.

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  Good value (if it doesnt break) - 2013 Nissan Versa
  By hdykiel - October 2 - 2:38 am

  I own the most basic model of the versa. For the price, the value is pretty good. The car is very roomy, more than what you would expect. Looks are also ok. Driving, it has enough power to get you places but take it easy on the road because it does not grip well and gets tossed around by the wind like a leaf. Reliability has been terrible for my car, I would be broke if it wasnt for the warranty. In one year and less than 18,000 miles, its had 4 significant mechanical problems already. Loose muffler shield, damaged sway bar links, malfunctioning valve, and foggy headlight.

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  Beautiful - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Geared2Go - September 18 - 4:46 pm

  Its been said that its goofy looking but I think its grown up looking inside and out. Its quiet and is a nice commuter car in comfort. Huge trunk you could fit a body in. Lots of style. Mines loaded with goodies from bluetooth, upgraded speakers, keyless entry and start, power everything. I love my new car.

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  Great Car - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By JPCauldwell - September 3 - 1:53 am

  Lots of room for the kids and gear. Has great acceleration from a stop and rides smooth and easy. After researching comparative models, the interior room and great extras (bluetooth, et. al.) this was the best choice.

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  Above average - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Steve J - August 25 - 11:10 pm

  I looked for a year for a car I could fit in at 65", 225 pounds and with my limited budget. In the end, flipped a coin and went with resale value. Not nearly as much fun to drive as my 99 Accent, but its nice to sit high so I dont have to change lanes for every truck that comes by. Top heavy car, tons of interior space, crappy speakers, looks cute, good color, good price. Havent gotten used to the 6 speed yet, I have to shift down to third or fourth on all the corners, sluggish first year.

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  Happy with the Versa - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Jason - August 15 - 12:03 am

  I bought the car new in July of this year. Am happy with it to date. I dont know about the 1.6, but I find the 1.8 has more than enough power. I do a lot of highway mileage, and the car never has any problem reaching highway speeds. Fuel consumption is Ok... I guess thats the price you pay for having a car with more power and that is slightly larger than the competition. Due to the cars height and its low weight it tends to get blown around a little on windy days, but again I suppose that is to be expected. I think the interior space is exceptional. My father has a Pathfinder and it has nowhere near the interior room that the Versa has. Overall a nice little car, I would buy another!

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  Great deal for a practical commuter! - 2010 Nissan Versa
  By NasserMA - August 5 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car for my mother and initially felt bad that I could not afford a nicer car for her. This completely changed once I got a chance to drive it! With the CVT, hatchback, upgraded interior this car is absolutely wonderful. I drove over 600 miles in one day and felt comfortable (Im 64"!) and relaxed. The CVT is extraordinarily smooth and efficient and had no problem with power up mountains. This car is awesome, a great commuter, and I managed an average of 34-35 MPG during the trip!

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  Nice Surprise - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By vvandenburg - July 29 - 5:06 am

  My son needed a commuter car for college, so I spent days looking for the right vehicle for him. I looked at new cars, used cars, cars on Craigslist and finally I ran across this vehicle at Hertz Car Sales. Most sub compact cars have very little head or backseat leg room, but I was amazed it had enough room, even from a 6-2 guy like me. It’s phenomenal on gas and was a good value, compared to other vehicles I considered. We just purchased this vehicle, but so far we are ecstatic with the performance and gas mileage

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  The great Nissan - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Russ - July 23 - 2:50 am

  Well, this is my first new car, and I chose this one. I love it. It drives great, looks sexy and it is so safe. I think that Ill be very happy in this car for a long, long time!

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  Economy Vehicle - 2015 Nissan Versa
  By mysteryvan92 - July 11 - 6:09 pm

  I have driven other cars on a daily basis, but this is the first car I have ever personally owned. The Versa is not for people who are heavy on the gas, trying to be king of the road. It is a simple, economical, moderately stylish sedan for people that need reliable transportation. It is ideal for low budgets, daily commuting, college students, etc. Ive put about 1,300 miles on it so far and I havent noticed any problems. The brakes were tighter than Im typically used to, but thats about it. Overall, im pretty satisfied with the buy and would recommend as an economical transportation solution.