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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  Homework done, good car for the money - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By The aipster - February 25 - 10:40 am

  Ive had Sentras and Maximas in the past, and the fit and finish on this car is similar to a Sentra. Engine slightly more powerful than the Honda fit or the Kia rio5. Much more roomy and comfortable seats than the other two. Smooth quiet acceleration without engine laboring. Surprisingly nice handling and tight turn radius. My previous car was a Pontiac GTO (great sportscar, gas hog, no trunk) and while the versa is no sports car, its fun to drive and saves $$ on gas. The seats are spacious, comfortable and there is more than ample head and leg room. Seats do fold down but not flush in the back. Plenty of cup holders and power plugs. Great inexpensive roomy little car.

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  Dont buy this car - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By nissansucks69 - February 9 - 1:00 pm

  I could review this car if I could actually use it!! I have not been able to use my car since it was broken since the day they gave it to me. Nissan and its laughable excuse for customer service have had my car for over a 3 weeks and I bought it 4 weeks ago. And they still cant fix it. I have asked for a refund or a new car and they just hang up the phone or redirect me to my contract which basically says "hahaha we screw you over". Listen to this precautionary tale - Dont trust Nissan ever.

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  Buyer Beware - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By Renee B - February 8 - 3:33 pm

  I have had nothing but trouble with this car. I took it to the dealership 3 months after purchasing it because there was a squealing noise when it was shifting through the gears. I drove it with the mechanic and he didnt hear anything when I pointed the noise out. They checked it out and told me there was nothing wrong. They also said that I shouldnt worry because Nissan warranties this particular transmission up to 100,000 miles. 6 months later I brought it back in because it was jerking other road, would not accelerate and my check engine light came on. I had just made it to 68,000 miles at this point and figured it would not be a problem. They informed me that the warranty had actually expired at 60,000 miles and any repairs would be at my expense. They couldnt recreate the problem so they reprogramed it thinking the check engine light was a computer glitch. 3 months later the transmission has completely failed on the car. The total cost for the transmission is $3,000 without labor. If you have this car and it is in working condition, please sell it asap.

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  So far so good - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By PM in So Cal - February 3 - 7:30 am

  Purchased the car in 4/08. We were an all V8 family and have adjusted well to the 1.8L. The car is fun to drive and carts our group of 4-5 around effortlessly, w/the AC on. Power is good, although engine gets a bit "wound up" on heavy acceleration. Engine calms down when you get to freeway speed. Getting 20-28 MPG combined (I have a heavy foot). Interior space is very good, even for those tall people riding in the back. Sport Package dressed up the car nice. Well built and tight. Held up well to an 18 wheeler slamming into the drivers side on the freeway. We are very satisfied thus far. Compared to the other econo-models out there, much more car for the $$. Would recommend.

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  Love my Versa - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By JazyJc - January 31 - 4:13 am

  It was between the Versa and the Honda Fit. I was impressed with the Versa from the beginning. Interior space and overall comfort cant be beat. Everyone who rides in my car comments on the comfort, even in the back seat. The ride is smooth and quiet, the interior feels high end. Plenty of power on fwy and hills. Sound system is good. Love the safety ratings. Didnt get the suggested MPG until about 900 miles in, so hang in there. I am very happy with this car.

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  Great Little Car - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By jeff - January 30 - 9:13 am

  I only looked at 2 cars, the Honda Fit and the Versa. However, my local dealership wanted nearly $2K above MSRP for the Fit. I walked out. The Versa is an excellent alternative to the Fit. The exterior is better looking. The engine gets "buzzy" at high revs, which is expected for a car in this class. Being nearly a foot longer, it had much better back seating than the Fit. The car leans more than the Fit when cornering, due to higher center of gravity and more compliant ride. Gas mileage is good but not great. Im averaging 25 mpg in the city. Maybe it will improve as the engine breaks in.

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  Not What You Drive, But How You Drive It - 2016 Nissan Versa
  By DudeBaker - January 28 - 4:41 pm

  If you are considering purchasing a bottom of the barrel Versa S, then you probably care about precisely three things: Economy, practicality, and reliability. Thats great, because the Versa has those bases covered. But you should also know that this clumsy little gas-miser can also be an incredibly fun and engaging drive. I own and daily drive a 2015 Versa S with a five-speed manual, and it has quickly become one of the most fun cars I have ever owned - and Ive owned a lot of cars. I absolutely love tossing this car through the corners, driving directly over every bump in the road, and taking all five gears up to an raucous 5000 RPM. The claimed 109 horses take a very heavy foot to reel in. The interior panels rattle and creak in protest of every bump. The front suspension compresses far too much during hard cornering. Understeer is standard. The back-end seemingly drags on the ground behind you. Yes, I drive this car hard. Very hard. It roars, it rattles, it thumps and clunks, and I love every second of it. While Im having fun, Im also enjoying fantastic economy and mostly worry-free ownership. Mixed driving brings me 37 mpg average and just one visit to the pump per week. Oil and air filters are so cheap that I replace both every 3000 miles. There are no fancy electronic parts to fail, no expensive interior surfaces to worry over, no fancy paint job to polish and protect, no shiny alloys to dodge potholes for. My Versa is so cheap, in fact, that it came with rust pre-embedded in paint. Yes, my brand new car is already rusty. BUT - I just dont care. I bought this car to get from A to B, not to worry about. Even with the rust and cheap build quality, I like the way the Versa sedan looks. When its cleaned up, it looks kind of sophisticated, grown up, mature. Contrary to what the price may tell you, the Versa is not for everyone. If youre looking for a smooth, quiet ride, dont buy a Versa. If youre looking for state of the art electronics, dont buy a Versa. If you want high tech engine management, disc brakes at all four corners, fully independent suspension... Dont buy a Versa. If you own a track car, the Versa is a perfect daily beater for you. If the best car youve ever owned as and E30, the Versa is a perfect daily beater for you. If you dont want to worry about locking your doors ever again, the Versa is a perfect daily beater for you. If youre anything like me, then buying a Versa for you commute will make you very happy.

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  Disappointed with some things - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By masonlane - January 24 - 11:10 pm

  Weve had our Versa for almost 2 years. Within the first 8 months, we lost a hubcap. No biggie, we replaced it. Three weeks later we lost another one. Nissan said it wasnt covered under the warranty! Weve replaced a total of four BROKEN hubcaps (2 on the back passenger side fell off) and now a 5th one is ready to come off! The clips break & they dont go back on, except for the 2 that the center fell out and the ring stayed attached to the tire! Nissan says its not a design flaw! Whatever!!! Ive been driving for 20 years and prior to owning the Versa, I lost ONE hubcap after I had a tire changed & it wasnt put back on properly. But at least it didnt break, it went back on the car!

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  Great MPG, Quiet, Comfortable, Quality - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Kraken - January 23 - 8:10 pm

  Brand new 2009 Nissan Versa 1.6L / 5spd Sedan. Miles per gallons is underrated. With a combination of freeway and city street driving we are getting over 40 miles per gallon as an average. 400+miles with only 10 gallons of gas! So on the highway the mileage is probably well over 40mpg. This 1.6L sips gas even with the A/C on. Not only that but this 1.6L engine accelerates pretty well for its size. Is surprisingly roomy for its size as well. Fits 4 adults comfortably. Handles well, very much like a VW Golf or similar. Quiet engine and quiet ride.

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  Never going Nissan again - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Pissed in Idaho - January 23 - 11:50 am

  My first car was a 1985 Nissan Maxima and I ran it to death from the years of 2003-2008 when I bought our Versa. Since then we have had the fuel pump replaced THREE TIMES and it keeps failing. We recently had it replaced but notified Nissan of us declaring lemon when the part breaks again, I just hope I get all the money I put into it as we are a few hundred dollars off from paying the entire 16k we paid for it.