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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  Red Fun - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Diane - May 30 - 3:53 am

  I love this vehicle and am happy to own it. The only disappointment is that the reported mpg is not accurate and although the dealership assured me the the standards are not based on real time driving and is inaccurate for all vehicles, I felt the advertising for 30- 36 mpg to be misleading. I have only once gotten 30 mpg in over 6000 miles and that tank wasnt a highway driving trip. Ive driven it from Tucson to LA and got no better mileage then around town. It has great space inside and rides comfortably and smoothly. It feels solid when compared to my 96 Toyota Rav.

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  Love my Versa!!! - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Blanca Castello - May 25 - 2:51 am

  The only bad thing is that it only has one car charger. Having phone charger, GPS charger or other people in the car it makes it tough.

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  Nissan Versa Dream Car - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By nissan versa 09 - May 23 - 12:33 pm

  I got a Nissan Versa 09 in Aug 08. I love my car. I have purchased 4 cars in the past 10 years and was looking for that perfect fit.

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  Brake failure - 2013 Nissan Versa
  By anadeau2 - May 22 - 1:06 pm

  I was driving at 30 miles an hour and my new versa with 7000 miles. All of the sudden my computer went off and i could not use the brakes. I was lucky to avoid an accident. I said I do not feel safe in this car to Nissan and Lokey of Clearwater and they said they will just repair the car. At first they didnt know what was wrong and then they fixed the ABS chip and recalibrated the computer. I drove the car and one week later I was going 50 mph and the brakes were all the way in and they were barely stopping. Luckily I avoided the accident. I called Nissan and they ignored me and said that there is nothing they can do for me. So now they fixed the master cylinder. I feel very unsafe driving.

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  Excellent economy car!! - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By 1973vw - May 17 - 4:27 am

  Where to begin with the Versa. For $10,990 its one of the best values Ive ever seen. The interior is exceptionally roomy for a small car. Honestly it has as much room as a full size car. The trunk is huge! It has decent power for climbing and accelerating but gets well over 50mpg on the highway. Good quality all around. Awesome car. Buying one was the best decision Ive made in a while.

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  Nissan Versa SL - 2013 Nissan Versa
  By versa_2013 - May 15 - 8:50 pm

  Bought a Nissan Versa SL. The cabin has more than enough space for four passengers, as well as providing comfortable seats. The interior is completely made of hard plastic, make sure your foot doesnt hit the door on the way out. The 1.6L engine is adequate around town and really does sip gas. On the highway, theres tons of wind noise, and the CVT, while providing smooth acceleration and excellent fuel economy, can be heard at any speed. Dont be fooled by the 109 hp rating, the car has more than enough get up and go. Excellent visibility all-around, smooth ride.

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  Objective opinion of 2012 Versa Sedan 1.6S MT - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By versatileauto - April 11 - 9:53 pm

  In my opinion, there is a great deal of misinformation out there on the 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan, and little to no information on the base model 1.6S MT with 5 speed manual transmission. In an effort to inform others, I submit the following. Due to the absence of inventory of the base model, I had to order the car. It took approximately 2 months to arrive, so I advise those looking for the stripped down version of the car to simply go to the dealership and order the car (assuming you have the luxury to wait). Dealers are reluctant to stock the manual transmission model. I give the Versa my highest praise for value & quality on a budget. This is a fine automobile at a very fine price.

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  Im Lovin My New Versa!! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Will - April 8 - 12:00 pm

  Just went out last weekend and purchased a new Nissan Versa and Im absolutely lovin it!! What a great car and thats coming from a former Toyota Camry owner. I plan to take a few trips down to the Bay Area in about a week or so and visit friends and family and for once gas mileage (as well as the cost of gas) wont be an issue since this little baby laughs each time I drive by a Chevron, Shell or Mobil. Gotta sit down this weekend and go over the manual... still trying to learn the audio/stereo system which by the way is da bomb. 6-CD changer, MP3 player, 6 speakers... man, what more could an audiophile ask for in a car! Da-da- ta-ta-ta... Im lovin it!

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  Great Little City Car - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Felipe - March 17 - 3:30 am

  Traded my old MB station wagon in for this great little car. Used to get 17 mpg on premium, now 30 mpg on regular. Peppy and roomy for city and expressway usage. Well built with no creaks and everything seems to fit well. Easy to get in and out of.

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  Stay away - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By rafboy - March 16 - 8:30 pm

  I bought a brand new one on 01/31/08. Has been in 4 times for repairs (including replacing the water- pump and also replacing the whole front passenger seat due to airbag sensors malfunctioning). The car has less than 3,000 miles on it. Simply unacceptable. Im looking into pursuing legal action. Be forewarned!