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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  Good little car, bad starting, tire leak - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By tire sensor - September 3 - 3:00 pm

  We bought a used Versa with 10,000 miles on it. We drove some other smaller cars and liked the ride and space of the versa. Have been to the dealer or tire shop three times so far to get the tire sensor leak fixed. Have also had inconsistent starting, takes three times to start sometimes. Am taking to dealer to fix.

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  Satisifaction not match w/ price - 2010 Nissan Versa
  By heart breaked buyer - August 31 - 8:53 am

  Car only designed use for iPod, should change to universal usb drive for all other device. Manufacturer said avg 28 mpg local & 34 freeway-lie! I test as 26.43 mpg freeway. Car seat latch system missing building 2 on the seat back. I can use house key to open door w the alarm system on without any noise! Backseat sm window design 2 big, if close 1st roll window, open 2nd roll drive next to airport2 min, will feel huge pressure& hard to breath. Winds come in and reflect from back to front.

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  Reliable and a great value! - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By tubulartrish - August 30 - 3:07 am

  I bought my new 2012 Versa about two and a half weeks ago. I absolutely love it! For the price, you really are not going to find anything better. The interior is surprisingly spacious. My 64" boyfriend fits in with plenty of room to spare. The ride is incredibly smooth. I noticed it the first day. There is a pothole near our apartment which I inevitably hit driving home. But, I barely felt it. The tires bumped over it, but the cabin stayed riding level. That was a huge surprise. I am incredibly happy with my purchase. Despite a couple drawbacks, it is still an amazing value!

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  The Real Thing - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By RealWorld - August 17 - 3:43 am

  Took this car on a 1,700 mile road trip shortly after purchasing. It was comfortable, great gas mileage, and so quiet. Love the bluetooth, keyless ignition, and the overall drive. Havent had any problems with this car. Every time I drive it I think about what a great choice I made between all the cars I was looking at. No regrets!

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  Ages fast - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By unhappy with versa - August 14 - 1:36 am

  I have had the car 15 months and in that time the fuel pressure regulator was replaced. At 14 months the car developed a rough idle and strong vibration that could not be repaired and I have been told this is "within normal" for this car. I have never had a rougher idling car in all the small cars I have owned.

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  2010 Nissan Versa Hatchback 1.8 S 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 4A) - 2011 Nissan Versa
  By suprman71 - August 13 - 11:04 pm

  I love my versa, got a certified pre-owned with low miles. Lots of room, very comfortable and i have a long 45 minute commute to and from work. This car is so fun to drive and i love everything about it. Lots of music choices am/fm radio, cd player and mp3 jack. Seats are very comfortable and am enjoying the cruise control--first vehicle that has all the options, keyless entry, alarm, power locks and windows and lots of room. Just cant say enough about this car, if your looking for a great value and excellent gas mileage this is the car for you.

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  Great commuting car - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Joe - August 7 - 3:40 am

  100 miles/day and the car is great. Comfortable, but the S needs a center arm rest. Very smooth ride and handles very well. Most interior room of any small car we tested (Yaris, Elantra, Cobalt, Mazda3, Corolla). Im 62" and leg room was very important. This is a great buy for your money. 32 MPG when I drive reasonably, 29 MPG when I keep up with Chicago traffic at 80 MPH.

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  New so new I shouldnt be writing this review yet. - 2014 Nissan Versa
  By paulden_guy - July 26 - 11:14 pm

  I bought a sedan over the Note even though I could have gotten a Note for a lot less. I like the sedans looks better. I bought the car for the gas mileage, interior space and trunk size. I am a large guy and fit with no problems. I did not buy it because it is a sport sedan, but it is practical for my daily commuting needs. Many reviews I read on here this site and others make me wonder how many are disgruntled owners that wanted a more expensive car (ALTIMA) and could only afford the Versa!?! I could have bought most any Nissan on the lot, but I chose the versa-tility of the Versa sedan

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  Fun Ride - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Qeen Bee - July 24 - 6:40 am

  This car for the price has all the bells and whistles, its a great buy.

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  Not my first choice. - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By shanp25 - July 21 - 4:33 pm

  Nissan Versa was not my first choice but when I saw it on the lot I thought it was cute. When I test drove it I fell in love. I also tried the Honda Fit which I felt was made cheaply and could be blown over by 5 mph winds. I get exceptional mileage but have only one complaint. I needed new brakes after only having the car for 6 months, plus there was a re-call with the air bag for the passenger seat. Very roomy in the backseat. Could fit a bike in the trunk with one of the back seats folded. Great gas mileage, comfy seats. There are more positives than negatives :) Great hatchback for a great price.