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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  Loaded Versa & Lovin It!! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Jeff & Alie - January 8 - 3:16 pm

  My wife and I test drove everything out there $5K above and below the price of the Versa and were hard pressed to find anything that truly compared. Leg, head and foot room are amazing in both the front and rear seats and the ride is that of a car two classes higher. Ride noise is minimal at worst and handling is better than most in this size group. The car was suppose to be a third car, one my wife could use to show clients properties way out of town, but has quickly become the vehicle of choice for the first one out of the house in the morning. If youre considering a Fit, Civic, Corolla, Matrix, Focus or anything of the such, give the Versa a try and see the value for yourself.

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  2017 Versa My First Car - 2017 Nissan Versa
  By AM - January 8 - 1:22 am

  I went to Nissan looking to see what kind of car I could afford. I was not expecting to walk out and get into a new car! However, the car was suggested to me since it would be my first car. I have learned a lot about the Versa since I have had it for about 2 1/2 months. The car is comfortable the storage space is roomy especially for the back seats. The engine is noisy but the car runs smoothly and has no problems manuevering in and out of traffic, parking spots etc. I understand it is a subcompact vehicle, so it will feel a little tight if you are taller person ( I am 59") but someone who is 65" has driven it and was comfortable while driving a lengthy distance(the seat had to be leaned back,)

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  Not for Montana driving - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Shelli Roufley - January 7 - 7:58 am

  I have driven front wheel drive little cars in Mt. for almost 30 years, putting on at least 30,000 miles a year. This is the worst car I have ever driven in snow and ice. Regretting this purchase. :( Update: I have had this car a year, and its falling apart.

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  Nisan Versa 2012 Sucks - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By Rose - January 6 - 8:20 am

  It is worse car ever. Too much of maintenance required.

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  peterpat - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By peter j monchino - December 28 - 2:10 pm

  Although compact, the interior feels like a full size car. The front seats are extra comfortable. The pick-up and ride is extremely smooth. It is extremely stylish in comparison with the other comparable small compact cars. I being 61" felt more comfortable and roomy in the Versa. The sound sytem is great. The cargo space is adequte considering the back seats fold down. The car itself feels solid with protected air bags from front and sides. For the price, style, size and equipment, I am certainly pleased with the design, comfort and reliablity.

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  3 Month Review - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Patrick - December 25 - 4:26 pm

  After 3 months, I continue to be very happy with the Versa. I enjoy the extras (MP3 plug-in, etc.), but the basics of the car are great (ie: automatic tire pressure warning). I get 25-30 mpg depending if I have been using the AC. No problems driving in the recent snow. Its no sportscar, but I definitely notice good pick-up off the lights compared to almost all other sedans on the road. Overall, a great value.

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  Lots of Car for the Money! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By AL - December 13 - 11:50 am

  After test driving the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris I chose the Nissan Versa because you get much more car for the money. When driving the Versa you get that heavy, bigger car feel. Its drive is both smooth and sturdy. The electronic steering feels precise and accurate and the car just loves to cruise at highway plus speeds. The seats are comforatble and supportive. The only negative is some engine noise during acceleration. Though when idling the engine is steady and practically silent. Six speed manual tranny shifts crisply and smoothly.

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  2012 VERSA Constant High Pitched Noisy Whine - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By versadisaster - November 23 - 1:05 pm

  I bought my new Versa in late Sept. and it started making a constant, high pitched, very loud, whiney noise. I returned it to Benson Nissan in Easley, S.C. and the mechanics heard the sound right away. They said that there have been several complaints about this noise and it is coming from the CVT. When Nissan figures out the noise problem there will be a re-call. This is not the kind of sound that one can get used to. Also, the Versa has a highly toxic glue smell in the interior and I discovered that the Versa has many toxic chemicals in the interior materials and is rated the No.1 Most Toxic Car in America. I Do Not recommend this car.

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  best buy in the market - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By 8995.00 - November 20 - 9:06 pm

  This is an unbelievable value. quiet, smooth shifting, comfortable, economic and tight little car. I purchased it to keep the miles off my diesel truck, but my daughter liked it so much she kept it for her graduation gift. No problems, no repairs. I guess I will have to purchase another one for me.

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  Not a Cadillac, but who cares - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Karen - November 20 - 10:50 am

  I came to own this car after my second used car died on me and felt that it was time to get a car with a dealers warranty, and Nissans bumper to bumper warranty caught my attention, and then the Versa Ive read reviews where people have not exactly found this car to be particularly sporty, however, I must say I disagree. With the trend in cars that are on the road going to cars designed like the Versa, Honda Fit, and Toyota Yaris, the Versa is a winner. The design I feel is more classy than it is modern or trendy. The tapered design is nice and economic and it most certainly is a comfortable ride. The space is a major plus, I never thought a small car would have this much room.