2020 Nissan Versa Review

Name: 2020 Nissan Versa
Brand: Nissan

Price Range: $7,590 - $18,990

Below Average

7.1

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

The 2020 Nissan Versa is a well-built small sedan, with plenty of space inside and enough standard technology and safety features to easily justify its price. High fuel economy is another bonus. The Versa's slow acceleration is a bummer, but overall the Versa is a smart pick for an affordable small sedan.

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Average price: $14,808

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Appraise My 2020 Nissan Versa

Nissan Versa model years

Nissan Versa for Sale

Pros

Plenty of safety features available at a reasonable price
Sizable trunk
High fuel economy
Infotainment system is easy to use

Cons

Sluggish acceleration
Not much interior storage space for small items

What's new

Redesigned with new exterior styling and improved interior
More available safety features
Slightly more powerful engine
Versa Note hatchback has been discontinued
Launches the third Versa generation for 2020

Overview

Written by automotive expert Ronald Montoya

8/23/2019

The Nissan Versa has held the title of the "least expensive car in America" for over a decade. But in its all-new third generation, the Versa has relinquished its title and is a better car for it. The 2020 Nissan Versa starts about $2,000 more than the model it replaces. But this price increase gets you a modern-looking, better-driving Versa with more standard features than the outgoing model.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

34 listings

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2020 Nissan Versa
S Sedan
$10,750
fair price
$121 below market
- 78,275 miles
- 32 City / 40 Hwy MPG
- 25 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Parking sensors
- USB Inputs
Close
Located in Alexandria, VA
2020 Nissan Versa 1.6 S Gun Metallic 1.6L 4-Cylinder DOHC 16V FWD AutomaticIntroducing our PASSPORT ONE PRICE program where qualified pre-owned veh...
Features and Specs:
35 Combined MPG (32 City/40 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
3N1CN8DV5LL849540
Stock:
NV849540P
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
07-01-2026
2020 Nissan Versa
SV Sedan
$7,590
good price
$1,598 below market
- 125,877 miles
- 32 City / 40 Hwy MPG
- 5 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Blind Spot Monitorin...
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Parking sensors
Close
Located in Sterling, VA
Features and Specs:
35 Combined MPG (32 City/40 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
3N1CN8EV0LL859195
Stock:
NC859195
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
06-15-2026

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The redesigned Versa sits 2.3 inches lower, is 1.8 inches wider and has a 1.6-inch-longer profile than the previous generation. Its styling bears a strong resemblance to its larger sibling, the Nissan Altima, which is a big step up for the subcompact. And while the price has increased, you're getting more features than before. Formerly top-trim-exclusive features such as power windows, power locks, and keyless entry with push-button start are now standard on the base S trim level.

The new non-turbocharged 1.6-liter engine makes 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 13 hp and 5 lb-ft over the old model. It's paired with a new continuously variable automatic transmission as well. Unfortunately, the Versa is still pretty slow, but at least there's no fuel economy penalty for the extra power. You can expect to get about 35 mpg in combined city/highway driving with the Versa's automatic transmission, which is quite good for a small sedan.

Overall, these changes add up to a significantly better car than the one it replaces. The Versa is worth considering if you need a subcompact car with modern features but don't want to break the bank. Notably, the 2020 Nissan Versa is a featured vehicle in our Cheapest New Cars article.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Below Average

7.1

out of 10

We drove the 2020 Nissan Versa on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

6.5/10

How does the Versa drive? The Versa's four-cylinder engine takes its time getting you up to speed. There's little issue in typical driving around town or fitting in with traffic. But in cases where you need to pull away quick or have short space to make a pass, the Versa leaves you wanting badly.

You'll be more satisfied with the Versa's handling abilities. It stays composed when going around turns. The steering can feel a little too heavy at times, but it's accurate and allows you to point the Versa where you want to go with ease.

Comfort

6.5/10

How comfortable is the Versa? Nissan includes its Zero Gravity seats in the 2020 Versa. The versions in the SV trim have comfortable cloth that is generally firm, but the seats run a little narrow under the shoulders. They offer great support on short- and medium-length drives, though the lack of sufficient lumbar support may require breaks over longer trips.

The car has a comfortable ride if the road surface is decent but gets bouncy over lesser-quality roads. Wind noise is prevalent inside the cabin, and if the car hits any bumps, you will hear it as much as you feel it. Another aspect holding the Versa back in this category is its climate control system. The controls don't allow enough fine adjustment to find exactly the right cabin comfort you're looking for.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? The Versa scores high for its interior design. It's easy to get inside and adjust the seat to your preferred driving position. The cabin is relatively roomy too. Even at the highest driving position, which feels almost SUV-like, there is plenty of headroom with space to stretch your legs in both the front and back seats.

The touchscreen is responsive and provides a clear picture. The controls on the center stack and steering wheel are straightforward, and you can use the tuning button to scroll through screens, which is easier than poking the touchscreen while driving. It's pretty easy to see out of the Versa thanks to the short hood and large windows.

Technology

7/10

How’s the tech? The Versa comes with a basic four-speaker audio system and it sounds like it. You'll need to turn up the volume all the way up to drown out exterior noise. Onboard navigation is not an option, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility is standard, so you can get directions through your phone. Pleasingly, they work quickly to display your phone's apps on the screen.

The Versa's advanced driver safety aids are helpful without being intrusive. Forward collision warning activates with a simple string of beeps. Lane-keeping warnings are also gentle buzzes. The biggest weak points are a low-resolution rearview camera and overly sensitive backup collision mitigation system. During our testing, this system mistakenly triggered when one of our drivers was backing into a street from a mildly inclined driveway. It slammed the car to a stop.

Storage

7/10

How’s the storage? The new Versa has a lot of trunk space for this class of car. Cargo capacity is 14.7 cubic feet, more than most competitors, and the trunk space has enough depth to accommodate larger items. The load floor is relatively low for a sedan, and the rear seats fold down, but not flat, if needed.

Small-item storage is not a strong suit. The center armrest is optional and can barely fit a smartphone. Child seat accommodation is better. There is good space for a rear-facing seat in the back. The lower car-seat anchor points are hidden between cushions, but they're easy to locate and attach to. The rear seats have integrated headrests, which means you have to wrap the strap around them to attach to the rear tether hooks.

Fuel Economy

8.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? Equipped with the CVT automatic, the Versa has EPA-estimated fuel economy of 35 mpg combined (32 city/40 highway). That's right up at the top of the class. Our test Versa soared above that with a 41.1 mpg average on our 115-mile test route that combines street, mountain roads and freeway driving.

Value

8/10

Is the Versa a good value? The Versa offers basic affordability without feeling like you're punishing yourself. It feels tightly built, with higher-quality materials than typical for the class, and provides more pizzazz than your usual econo-sedan. There is interesting tech and enough safety equipment to easily justify the cost of entry, with room to add options and still stay under $20,000.

Nissan offers a pretty middle-of-the-road warranty with basic coverage for three years/36,000 miles and powertrain coverage for five years/60,000 miles. Hyundai, Kia and Mitsubishi all go up to 10 years/100,000 miles. Roadside assistance is offered for three years/36,000 miles. Most rivals offer better coverage, and some provide free maintenance for up to three years.

Wildcard

7/10

The Versa has no delusions of grandeur. There are no superfluous paddle shifters, fake vents or Sport modes. It's an economy car that offers space and safety technology at an attractive value. That said, the steering and handling are decent for the price, and even a few of us will admit we like the style and feel of the flat-bottom steering wheel. This is a slow car. There's no getting around it. But the Versa makes a good effort to avoid being soulless.

2020 Nissan Versa trim level differences

The 2020 Nissan Versa is offered in three trim levels: S, SV and SR. All trim levels come with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque) and front-wheel drive. In general, the SV and the SR add more cosmetic, convenience and safety features. There's only one package available on the SR trim, which makes it simple to find a Versa with the features you want. Compare the 2020 Nissan Versa trim levels in-depth.

Which Versa trim does Edmunds recommend?

The mid SV trim strikes the balance between a good value and modern amenities. Compared to the base S, you get the full suite of Nissan's available safety features, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and some little extras such as a driver's armrest and heated outside mirrors.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$160/mo

$214/mo

Avg. Compact Car

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Reliability

The 2020 Nissan Versa has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 2 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #13 out of 27 among Subcompact Cars. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

4 out of 5 stars4/5Excellent

#13 out of 27 among Subcompact Cars

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$391/yr

vs. $416/yr
for Average Subcompact Car

Frequency

0.94x/yr

vs. 1.22x/yr
for Average Subcompact Car

Severity

10.6%

vs. 10.1%
for Average Subcompact Car

Recalls

2 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 21V471000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: PM986 / PC
Number of vehicles affected:: 30799
Defect Description:: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Titan, Titan XD, and Versa vehicles. The front right and/or left turn signal bulb can crack and fail to illuminate.
Defect Consequence:: Inoperable front turn signals cannot alert on-coming drivers and/or pedestrians that the vehicle will be turning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect and replace the bulbs as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 20, 2021. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669. Nissan's numbers for this recall are PM986 and PC811.

Recall Number:: 20V112000
Number of vehicles affected:: 46
Defect Description:: Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020 Versa vehicles. Due to a manufacturing issue, the fuel tank wall thickness may be insufficient, potentially causing a small hole in the tank seam area.
Defect Consequence:: If a small hole is present, a fuel leak may occur if the operator fills the tank over half full, increasing the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Nissan will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began April 6, 2020. Owners may contact Nissan customer service at 1-800-867-7669.

Warranty

3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 5 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles

Nissan Versa Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.1

21 reviews

5(67%)

4(5%)

3(9%)

2(9%)

1(10%)

See all 21 reviews of the Nissan Versa

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

2020 Versa Features & Specs

Trim:

MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee	$14,830
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	30 MPG
Cost to Drive	$160/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	14.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the Versa models:

Automatic Emergency Braking: Detects vehicles and pedestrians ahead and automatically applies the brakes if a collision is imminent and the driver doesn't react in time.
Rear Door Alert: Uses the horn, door sensors and driver display to remind the driver to check the rear seat for children after the vehicle is parked.
Lane Departure Warning: Monitors lane markings and alerts the driver if the Versa starts to drift out of its lane without a turn signal being used.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover11.8%

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