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:

• 

  love my versa but.... - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By andrea - May 15 - 11:53 pm

  I purchased my versa in July of 06 and I love it! However my check tire pressure light continually comes on, the dealership is fantastic with fixing it but its just lit up for the 3 or 4th time. Also check your tire wells, I had water that had leaked into the well from the back window not being sealed all the way. So check that out.

• 

  My Versa - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Ursula - May 12 - 7:50 am

  This car is just OK, but not comfortable at all. Very small trunk, cant fit a small suitcase. Very hard to take anything out of the trunk. Heating does not work well.

• 

  Best of both worlds - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By alexg1268 - May 9 - 10:36 pm

  The Nissan Versa gives near-SUV interior room along w/ subcompact fuel economy. The engine has good power. Trunk space is excellent. The hatchback version of the car has a very attractive exterior styling. Many of my friends give wanting glances to my beautiful little car. Ive had the auto for sixteen months now. With 28000 miles, its giving me 28 mpg. Considering this car is one of the three cheapest on the market, Im an enormously satisfied customer.

• 

  Great Little Car! - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By TIMBEDET - April 28 - 12:46 pm

  The Versa has better acceleration than I anticipated, and does great both in traffic and on the highway. The engine is extremely quiet and does sound labored at all. Nissan did a great job ensuring the driver has great vision and awareness of surroundings. If you live in the city and have to parallel park, you are going to be in heaven with this car. I find this car to be quite comfortable to drive, much more so than the FIT. The standard sound system provides a clean, crisp, full sound that I am very happy with.

• 

  Great Car - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By bscanlan - April 27 - 4:23 pm

  Just sold my 2007 Versa after 39000 miles and 38 months. I am sad to see it go as it was a great car. Inexpensive to buy, great mileage (32 mpg), reliable, and fun. I have never had a car with as good a drivers position and/or visibility. As a fun and well-built people mover, it has no equal; certainly not the Fit or Yaris; it is in a class by itself. It served me well and never complained. Good job Nissan. Thanks Versa.

• 

  Does its Job... - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By sigmaman99 - April 26 - 5:30 am

  Got this as a 2nd car for my 70 mile daily commute. Very basic car with no frills or excitement. For such a small car with a small engine I expected better gas mileage. Driving about 75 mph on the highway gets me about 27 mpg. Upgraded the stereo to a Pioneer DEH-6400BT because I needed hands-free bluetooth and iphone connectivity. Install on this car was very easy. Very impressed with the legroom. Overall this car does its job which is get me to work and back.

• 

  2 year update - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By bstern92 - April 26 - 2:49 am

  I now have 98,000 miles on my versa and its still going fine. I do have a couple complaints. The steering started to peel and once it starts, it just keeps getting worse. The steering wheel position is my biggest complaint. At its lowest setting it still sits up too high. My hands are only comfy holding the bottom of the wheel. I also had my outside door handle break off. It gets great gas mileage and the hatchback is so versatile. If you insist on only buying new and are on a tight budget, then this car is for you, otherwise there are much better used options. Since this time around I can afford to spend a little more, I am looking at buying a new 2015 honda fit ex for $18,000.

• 

  Happy new Owner - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Krystal - April 22 - 5:10 pm

  I am replacing a 2002 Nissan Sentra (which I LOVED) and after test driving several competitors I came back to Nissan. I also drove the mid-level Sentra and the Versa has a much better interior layout. LOVE my bluetooth phone and intelligent key. As a small business owner, this feature is a lifesaver and worth every cent! The ABS upgrade has also paid for itself with a $300 per six months savings on my car insurance over the old Sentra. Car is peppy and ROOMY.. almost like the fabled Tardis.. way bigger inside than it looks! I plan to drive this car for 10 years and think it will be a happy love affair.

• 

  Best Car for the $$$ - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Kim - April 9 - 9:30 am

  After owning my fair share of Honda Civics, I decided it was time for a change. I wanted something that was good on gas and comfortable at a price that wouldnt break the bank. I test drove a Mazda3, Ford Focus & Hyundai Elantra before settling on the Versa. Im 100% satisfied with my decision. While an "economy" car, the Versa SL doesnt lack in quality. The quality of the interior fabric is superb. Its easy to clean & durable. All controls are placed logically & are easily accessible. The CVT is smooth and quiet. Love it!

• 

  Lets hear it for entry level cars! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By PF FLyer - April 6 - 11:06 am

  Its about time that the market starts giving us cars that we dont need a second mortgage to own. The Versa is stylish and practical. Not a sports car by any stretch, but fun to drive. With over 1.5 million combined miles on our manual shift Nissans since 1979, Ill be very surpsied if any major issues crop up with the Versa. Feels very solid and positive on the road, and Im getting 31 MPG combined. The leg room, front and back, is very surprising to everyone who has taken a drive with me. You sacrifice a bit of trunk space, but the fold down rear seats let you expand your storage when you need to. If solid, economical transportation is what youre after, the Versa might fit your bill.