The Nissan Versa exemplifies the ways in which subcompacts have evolved beyond just being cheap and fuel-efficient. Like other vehicles in this growing segment, the Versa combines excellent fuel economy, solid build quality and space-efficient interior design while remaining very affordable. The four-door Versa also distinguishes itself with two available body styles and many available upmarket features. It's a great choice as an entry-level vehicle, but drivers looking for any degree of excitement or personality are advised to look toward the Versa's competition.
Current Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa economy car comes in two body styles. The four-door sedan was completely redesigned for 2012, while the four-door hatchback carries over largely unchanged. As such, there are distinct differences between the two models.
The Versa sedan's dimensions are largely unchanged from its predecessor, but it weighs between 150 and 300 pounds less. This allows for a less powerful engine to achieve the same acceleration as before, but with better fuel economy. In fact, the sedan is between 3 and 6 mpg more efficient than the hatchback depending on transmission. Changes for the new model also include an overhaul of the interior, featuring a more interesting design and higher-quality materials. Handling has also been improved, though the Versa remains a subcompact car that puts an emphasis on comfort rather than agility.
Though they are technically different cars, the Versa sedan and hatchback share many of the same virtues. Each has a tall roof line, which allows for a huge amount of interior space. Headroom is extraordinary. There is ample legroom, even in the rear seats where 6-footers can fit comfortably. Cargo space is similarly impressive, with the sedan's trunk bigger than several larger cars. The Versa hatchback is even bigger and more practical. Inside, there are differences in each Versa body style's features list, but both offer a wealth of comfort and convenience items. Antilock brakes, stability control, air-conditioning and a stereo are also all standard.
The Versa sedan is available in S, SV and SL trim levels, and is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the S, while a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is optional on the S and standard on the SV and SL.
The Versa hatchback, meanwhile, gets S and SL trim levels with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder that produces 122 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. This is obviously more than the sedan, but the hatchback weighs more and acceleration is essentially the same. Fuel economy is worse, however. The base S trim comes with a standard six-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic. The SL gets a standard CVT.
Regardless of body style, we've found that the Nissan Versa provides simple, spacious and inexpensive transportation. It's a sensible shoes sort of a car that's tough to make a case against. Of course, if you're looking for a little flare or excitement in your subcompact car, there are now other choices that will add a little spice to that transportation equation.
Used Nissan Versa Models
The Nissan Versa was new for 2007. 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 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.
As it was essentially the same as the current hatchback, the original-generation Nissan Versa shares the same virtues and missteps. It was spacious, comfortable and well-equipped. In reviews, our editors found the 1.8 Versa to be surprisingly peppy and comfortable to drive. The CVT did a commendable job of getting the Versa up to speed on the highway; however, the six-speed manual made better use of the 1.8-liter engine's power reserves and 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's ride quality was good over smoother pavement, but its suspension compliance over rough road surfaces wasn't as good, with the wheels tending to hop over obstructions rather than settling quietly back into place.
