Nissan Versa

2010 Nissan Versa

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Shopping for a 2012 Nissan Versa? MSRP: $10,990 - $18,490

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The Nissan Versa is a family of subcompact cars, currently including a four-door sedan and five-door hatchback. It's one of the lowest-priced vehicles for sale in the North American market, inserted into the lineup as an even more affordable model than the Sentra, and competes with the Hyundai Accent, Chevrolet Aveo, Kia Rio, Toyota Yaris, and Honda Fit, among others.

The Versa is sold elsewhere in the world as the Nissan Tiida, and it offers a surprising amount of space compared to most other entry-level subcompacts. It's one of the few in its affordable class to have a backseat that's large enough for adults, as well as ride comfort that rivals that of cars a step larger. And, at the time of its introduction it was the only model in its class with a standard six-speed manual transmission.

New to the U.S. in 2007, the Versa came as either a four-door sedan or five-door hatch, both equipped with a 122-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. Depending on the year, as well as the trim, the optional automatic transmission will either be a traditional four-speed auto or an Xtronic continuously variable (CVT) automatic.

For 2009, Nissan expanded the model line by adding 1.6-liter Base models (for the sedan only), which featured a 107-hp version of the same engine, along with a standard five-speed manual instead (or optional automatic). The 1.8-liter did well with either of the combinations, with more torque than most small-car engines off the line, but the 1.6 was only adequate if you stuck with the manual. Fuel economy is a shortcoming for all Versa models. Unfortunately, 1.6 models weren't any better for fuel economy; they were actually a little lower on the highway, at an EPA 26/31 mpg.

With a very roomy interior, and switchgear that feels like it could be from Nissan's larger models, the Versa appeals to those who want a lot of vehicle for the money but don't necessarily place the priority on outright performance or fuel economy. Although the Versa steers well, its suspension is rather soft and not privy to being tossed around. In either version, the back seat is spacious enough for two adults or three kids, and back doors open wide. The hatchback is the choice for those wanting the most versatility—there's 17.8 cubic feet alone with the seatback up.

The Versa Base didn't come with air conditioning, power locks, a sound system, and many other things that are sometimes taken for granted. Versa S models are better equipped, including most of those basics, and range-topping SL models come with upgraded sound, height-adjustable seats, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and standard electronic stability control. Although the Versa earned reasonably good safety ratings, in models prior to 2010 the Base and S models haven't come with standard anti-lock brakes or electronic stability control.

For 2010, in addition to the new safety equipment, Nissan added a slightly different grille to the lineup and made large 16-inch alloy wheels optional, as well as a navigation and an XM Satellite Radio package. Intelligent Key and Rockford Fosgate sound remained major options.

A completely new, second-generation Versa bowed for 2012, but only in Versa Sedan form (an all-new Versa Hatchback is due for 2013). In the meantime, the 2012 Versa Hatchback remained on sale in its outgoing body style. The Sedan looked quite different--with a curvier, lower roofline, a new corporate grille, and cues that nodded to other models in the Nissan and Infiniti lineups. It also added the very economical combination of a new 109-hp, 1.6-liter four, with a reworked version of Nissan's CVT or a five-speed manual transmission. In features and appointments, the new Versa seems even more bargain-basement than before, with drum brakes across the lineup; short, flat seats; hard-and-hollow-feeling dash and door trims; and rear seatbacks that don't fold forward on the more affordable models. Safety ratings haven't been stellar, either.

That said, features for the money remained strong for the 2012 Versa. As the cheapest model in the U.S. market, the 2012 Versa Sedan starts at just $11,750 (including destination). You won't find power accessories on this price leader, but air conditioning is now standard on all models. On the new Versa, mid-range SV models add typical conveniences like cruise control and power windows, while top-of-the-range SL models, optioned up with navigation, XM NavTraffic, and USB/iPod controls, total around $18k.

2010 Nissan Versa

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