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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  The worst car ever... - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By ramo1 - February 12 - 9:45 am

  The build quality of this car is really poor, the lens of the transmission console fell off (?), the front driver side splash guard came off on the road, the decorative cover of the driver side door lock came off for no reason, and the entire exterior door handle itself came fell off a few months later. These are items that hardly ever break down on any car. I addition I had to replace oxygen sensors at just 50 K miles, and exhaust pipe at just 56 K miles. After being a loyal Nissan customer (I owned Stanza, Quest, and Sentra in the past) I will never buy a Nissan again. I wonder what happened to the Nissan quality...it is not there anymore.

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  Nice Versa - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Nice Versa - February 9 - 10:20 pm

  Considering 2008 versa 1.8S and 2008 Hyundai elantra SE, purchased 1.8SL from very nice private party for a good deal, however it came with new car smell. It had just front ABS, however brake was good. Roomy back seat. A bit noisy on windy day. The noise also has to do with the type of hard tire for better MPG. Soft tire would reduce tire noise for less MPG. I need to adjust my driving habit to handle small engine for better mileage and durability. Good handling and adequate power (not ample power) on highway for 70-80 mph cruise w/3 adults. Passing trucks on highway was ok. Did not feel dangerous. Not tested for any rain or snow condition yet. Better than Honda Fit.

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  Love love love my Versa - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By stlrfan17 - February 5 - 4:50 pm

  I have had my Versa since July and I love it! I added a few extras (tinted windows/window visors/moonroof) to make it less geeky. Im very happy with the fuel economy - went from owning a SUV that got 12-15 mpg to my Versa averaging 30 mpg (city driving mostly). The interior is surprisingly big - we have 2 boys and they have plenty of room in the back! The cargo space is adequate as well. Its fun to drive and easy to park in tight spots. I mostly do city/town driving but have taken my Versa on long trips as well and am very happy with the comfort and the 34 mpg I got! For a car that was well under $20,000 for all the great features, it was well worth the $$.

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  18000 fun miles - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By bobgwynn - February 4 - 6:00 am

  Had my Versa for almost two years and 18k trouble free miles. I get 30 in town and 35 on hwy (if you keep it under 70 mph). Drop air pressure to around 28-30psi and the bumpy ride disappears without hurting mileage. Big comfortable interior and very quiet ride. Enough engine power for high speed crusing unless you are carrying 4 people with luggage and ac on. Best hatchback on market and 2-3 grand cheaper than its competitors. Needs console armrest. Had aftermarket cruise added for $350.00 which works great. Good standard sound system. A baby Murano at half the price.

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  Comforting - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By sxy - January 30 - 8:00 am

  We are looking for a good commuter car and big inside. I dont wanted to buy a SUV, a big gas hug. I need a car that good in gas and roomy inside and big trunk. Specially with two kids. We found this Nissan Versa, I told my husband its very comforting and very roomy inside. We test drive after that we bought the car and I love driving it.

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  Great Car and Fun To Drive 2008 with CVT - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Josh77 - January 16 - 7:56 pm

  I purchased my versa in on March 12, 08 and had an issue with the brakes rotors needing to be turned due to vibrations. This was repaired next available date I could get it in. I have about 3600 miles on it an started to have hard starts, taking 10-30 sec. to start. Thought it was bad gasoline but ended up being Fuel Pressure Sensor. Just had that repaired and continue to enjoy this car. Getting 30-32mpg consistently. The CVT takes some getting use to but the selling point was no maint. for 150K miles or more. Lots of interior room but black seats show lots of dirt when you have kids. Needs more 12 volt outlets. Comeon Nissan its the 21st century! Overall I am very happy with car.Enjoy

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  My 1st Car = AMAZING - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By andyMB - January 11 - 10:40 am

  I love how the car is smooth for the most part. Slower acceleration than some cars, then again it isnt a sports car nor is the road a race track! It keeps up with fast highway traffic -140 max and on the one way roads it is small enough to squeeze on the side when passing other cars as opposed to most cars. Engine can be a bit noisy at times, but it is def. not loud when driving at high speeds like a lot of other cars, including luxury cars, like those buzzing sounds. In all fairness to this car, which I read a lot of minor or just plain stupid comments about, the car is an amazing one for the price, performance, and overall quality! (*It also depends on the driver and how s/he drives & car).

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  Happy Driving - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By TTR - January 5 - 2:36 pm

  Only had my 6M hatchback for a month but have already put over 3,000 miles on it, went to N. Arizona for Christmas - $83 one way! Handled very well on the snow and ice, very impressed with the quietness, in fact just yesterday a passenger in my car didnt believe the engine was still running til I pulled away!! Half a tank of gas will see me over 200 miles (driv to work is 30 miles highway 15 miles city). Fun to drive, responsive and spacious, after driving a V8 truck for years didnt expect to like it that much outstanding value for money!

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  Cash for Clunkers Buy - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Dave Shane - December 31 - 6:06 pm

  I got the Versa Sedan 1.6 with 5 speed manual transmission and A/C with ABS through the "Cash for Clunkers" program. I wanted the least expensive car out there that had A/C and that an adult could fit into. Ive owned Nissans before and I know they make a better product. This car is made for practical adults. It has plenty of safety features and a lot of interior room. The truck is very roomy for vacation travel. For the kid in me, I do enjoy winding it up and going through the gears. It isnt a speed demon but I can get through traffic with ease if Im running late.

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  I got what I wanted - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Carl - December 30 - 8:56 am

  I wanted a vehicle comparable to my 2004 Pontiac Vibe which has 110,000 miles and has been perfectly reliable. I also wanted a vehicle that is smoother and quieter than the Vibe, which I still love despite noisy and expensive tires. The Versa fills the bill, is a little more maneuverable and takes less effort to drive. Visibility is a little better too. Fuel economy is comparable, Versa being better in the city and the Vibe slightly better on the highway. For me the Versa is plenty quick (like the Vibe). I like the quiet, the Blue Tooth, the jack in the ratio that lets me use my $30 XM radio.