2008 Nissan Versa Features Review

July 6, 2008

FEATURES | 8 out of 10

Expert Quotes:

1.8 SL offers a Rockford Fosgate premium stereo
Edmunds

Equipped with an auxiliary jack for an MP3 player
Cars.com

Available amenities include keyless entry and start
Motor Trend

The 2008 Nissan Versa breaks the bargain mold, in its long list of standard features and its nifty options.

Standard features vary between the two trim (and MSRP) levels of Nissan's 2008 Versa, but even the base 1.8 S is decently equipped. Edmunds writes that "the 1.8 S starts you out with 15-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, a four-speaker CD stereo, power mirrors, [and] a split-folding rear seat" that helps aid cargo space. The Nissan Versa 1.8 SL "adds alloy wheels; upgraded cloth upholstery; power windows and locks; cruise control," and "a six-speaker stereo with MP3 playback and an auxiliary input jack," according to Edmunds.

Mother Proof thinks either model is "pretty pimped-out" for "such an economical car."

Optional features on the 2008 Nissan Versa typically come in packages, but they do allow for a decent amount of personalization. ConsumerGuide writes that the available Power Package on the Nissan Versa 1.8 S adds "power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry," and several other features that are standard on the 1.8 SL, while the SL's available Convenience Package includes a "leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls" and "wireless cell phone link." Among other available features on Nissan's 2008 Versa, you'll find "an Audio Package for SL hatchbacks" that "includes a Rockford Fosgate-powered subwoofer," according to Kelley Blue Book, and "a choice of XM or SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and a moonroof, are linked together as available options on the SL trim level."

Conclusion

With the right options, the 2008 Nissan Versa can be outfitted like a larger, more luxurious car.

FEATURES | 8 out of 10Expert Quotes:1.8 SL offers a Rockford Fosgate premium stereoEdmundsEquipped with an auxiliary jack for an MP3 playerCars.comAvailable amenities include keyless entry and startMotor Trend The 2008 Nissan Versa breaks the bargain mold, in its long list of standard features and its nifty options. Standard features vary between the two trim (and MSRP) levels of Nissan's 2008 Versa, but even the base 1.8 S is decently equipped. Edmunds writes that "the 1.8 S starts you out with 15-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, a four-speaker CD stereo, power mirrors, [and] a split-folding rear seat" that helps aid cargo space. The Nissan Versa 1.8 SL "adds alloy wheels; upgraded cloth upholstery; power windows and locks; cruise control," and "a six-speaker stereo with MP3 playback and an auxiliary input jack," according to Edmunds. Mother Proof thinks either model is "pretty pimped-out" for "such an economical car." Optional features on the 2008 Nissan Versa typically come in packages, but they do allow for a decent amount of personalization. ConsumerGuide writes that the available Power Package on the Nissan Versa 1.8 S adds "power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry," and several other features that are standard on the 1.8 SL, while the SL's available Convenience Package includes a "leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls" and "wireless cell phone link." Among other available features on Nissan's 2008 Versa, you'll find "an Audio Package for SL hatchbacks" that "includes a Rockford Fosgate-powered subwoofer," according to Kelley Blue Book, and "a choice of XM or SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and a moonroof, are linked together as available options on the SL trim level." ConclusionWith the right options, the 2008 Nissan Versa can be outfitted like a larger, more luxurious car.  2008 NISSAN VERSA STYLING | [6 out of 10] Cars.com: "I don't know many people who would call the Versa sedan a looker" Car and Driver: "Hardly a recipe to whet the collective American appetite" ConsumerGuide: "Controls are logically placed and, for the most part, clearly marked" The ...

Read More of this Review:

  1. styling
  2. performance
  3. quality
  4. safety
  5. features

Other Choices:

The 2008 Nissan Versa appeals to buyers who are looking for lower fuel bills and car payments, without giving up the comfort and features of a larger car. But at its best, at 27 mpg city, 33 mpg highway with the CVT automatic, the Versa's fuel economy isn't as good as other vehicles in its price and size range. For instance, the Yaris rates up to 29 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, but like most of these vehicles, the Yaris doesn't feel as roomy inside or have as smooth a ride. The other best-riding alternative is the Chevrolet Aveo, but the Aveo has especially unimpressive fuel economy and safety. Kia's Rio and Rio5 hatchback feel sportier than the rest of the crowd, as does the xD. But the best vehicle in this class is the Honda Fit, which admittedly costs a bit more and is only available as a hatchback. However, it feels sporty, handles well, promises good safety, and has a standout, minivan-like Magic Seat arrangement that allows an especially low, flat cargo floor.

Next Steps:

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for a 2008 Nissan Versa near you

See the Nissan Versa in Other Years:

2010 | 2009 | 2008 | 2007

Comments (1 total)

  1. By Ex Versa Owner #1, Posted: 7/23/2008

    4 dr manual sedan a let-down

    I bought my brand new 08 versa, 6-spd, 4 dr sedan at the end of April. 3 months and over 6,000 miles later, I still didn't see the "great gas milage" that was promised once "the engine gets broken in a bit." 90% of my driving is highway, and driving in 6th gear resulted in a lot of engine noise (my number one grievance, ahead of even the low mpg's)and the strain you'd normally feel in a 5-speed when you try to go 65 in 4th gear. While these issues did not lead me to trade in my car (a late night encounter with a deer on the highway effectively put an end to my relationship with the versa, as it was totalled due to the blow to the computer) I do not plan to buy another one!

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