2010 Nissan Versa - Quality Review

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The 2010 Nissan Versa offers very impressive interior space, but engine noise and some unimpressive trim pieces detract from the experience.

Compared to other cars in its class, the 2010 Versa is exceptionally roomy in both sedan and hatch guises, and Nissan says the amount of interior space approaches that of mid-size cars. Edmunds proclaims that "the Nissan Versa's interior is notable for its spaciousness." There is seating for five, but squeezing an adult into the middle rear seat can be a challenge. The "tall roof makes headroom a non-issue, and its expansive legroom lets 6-foot-plus passengers sit comfortably in either the front or rear,” says Edmunds. Cars.com adds that "the backseat actually has a ton of room, more than in a lot of midsize sedans," and "the seats are reclined a bit, which helps with headroom." Also, the wide-opening doors in back provide for refreshingly easy entry and exit. However, despite the admirable overall comfort in the Nissan Versa, some reviewers, such as those at MotherProof, find the rear seats aren't "that comfortable, so longer drives could start to wear on your back." This is an exception to most reviews, as the seats are generally considered comfortable.

Storage inside the cabin is another point where reviewers are impressed with the Versa. ConsumerGuide notes that there is "plenty of interior storage, including front and rear map pockets." At the back of the car, reviewers at The Auto Channel find "excellent trunk room (17.8 cubic feet)" during their drive, even with the rear seats in place, but if they need to, they could have folded those seats "to create the maximum carrying capacity of 50.4 cubic feet." MotherProof reviewers also count "six cupholders."

Reviews of the car’s interior materials are more of a mixed bag; Car and Driver reviewers blast the "budget" interior and the fact that "hard plastics are omnipresent,” while ConsumerGuide feels that the "interior is highlighted by lots of soft-touch materials and classy looking gauges—uncommon at this price point." Cars.com testers also love the "high-quality feel of the controls and dashboard materials" on their Nissan Versa.

A good indicator of build quality is interior noise levels; in this regard, ConsumerGuide finds that in general, the Versa offers a "quiet highway ride,” but this can be “disturbed by modest wind noise from the mirrors and some coarse-surface tire thrum." Edmunds also notes that the CVT "results in a raucous cabin environment" accentuated by "noisy and gruff" engine sounds.