Nissan Versa History
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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 does well with either of the combinations, with more torque than most small-car engines off the line, but if you want to go cheap and stick with the 1.6-liter versions, go with the manual
transmission. As such, 1.6-liter versions are adequate but a little winded on the highway. Fuel economy is a shortcoming for all Versa
models. Don't look for much better fuel economy from he 1.6 models either; they're actually a bit 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 model is one of the most affordable new cars today, but it doesn't come with air conditioning, power locks, a sound system, and other things that are sometimes taken for granted. The Versa S is 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 has been rated quite well for safety, in models prior to 2010, the Base and S models haven't come with standard anti-lock brakes.
Aside from a slightly different grille, the Nissan Versa has changed very little for 2010. Large 16-inch alloy wheels are newly optional, as well as a navigation and XM Satellite Radio package. Intelligent Key and Rockford Fosgate sound remain major options.
