Your membership has expired

The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.

Re-activate
GREEN CHOICE

Nissan Versa

EPA MPG: 33 mpg
Average Retail Price
$4,575 - $5,800

Road Test

Nissan redesigned its entry-level Versa sedan, but not for the better. While the previous model was our top-rated subcompact sedan, the changes made to the new version have dropped it to the bottom of its category. On the positive side, this Versa gets much better fuel economy -- 32 mpg overall vs. 27 -- and it provides a roomy rear seat. But it's slow, noisy, and handles clumsily. Even considering its low sticker price, Nissan's small car also feels low-rent, especially compared with other subcompacts that are getting more refined with nicer interiors. The Versa scored a poor in the IIHS small-overlap crash test.

For complete Road Test Report and to see Highs and Lows, become a member

2016 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

This Car
NA
vs. Similar Cars

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
Poor
IIHS Side Crash
Good
NHTSA Overall Crash
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
Poor
IIHS Side Crash
Good
NHTSA Overall Crash
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
Good
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
Poor
IIHS Side Crash
Good
NHTSA Overall Crash
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

2016 Small sedans/hatchbacks Ratings

$4,650 - $5,850
economy-icon
EPA MPG 33 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$5,750 - $7,425
economy-icon
EPA MPG 34 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$4,125 - $6,300
economy-icon
EPA MPG 29 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$4,900 - $5,625
economy-icon
EPA MPG 35 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$7,050 - $8,800
economy-icon
53 miles
economy-icon
42 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    sedan
Seating
2 front, 3 rear
Drive Wheels
Front
Engines Available
  • 1.6-liter 4 (109 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • 5-speed manual
  • CVT
  • 4-speed automatic
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties
Model History
2020-
Current Generation

Although it's more stylish with the 2020 redesign, the Versa continues to be a basic, inexpensive subcompact. Available as a sedan only, we found it easy to drive and user-friendly. Unlike most of its competitors, it comes with standard key advanced safety features, like automatic emergency braking. But the Versa is no joy to drive, with its stiff ride, dull handling, and droning engine. Fuel economy is good at 32 mpg overall, but some midsized sedans--let alone compact ones--can match or better that. The driver's seat is short on support, and unlike previous Versas, the rear seat is tight. A more substantial used car can be had at the same price, but those who consider the Versa should get the SV version for its blind spot warning and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The Versa received a refresh in 2023 with updated styling. 2025 versions received standard LED headlights on all trims. 

2012-2019
2012 Redesign Year
The 2012 redesign of the sedan was a disappointment, eroding the previous car's budget-plush feel with a noisy and blatantly cheap interior and a so-so ride. While the previous model was our top-rated subcompact sedan, the changes made to this version dropped it to the bottom of the category. On the positive side, this Versa gets much better fuel economy -- 32 mpg overall vs. 27 -- and it provides a roomy rear seat. But it's slow, noisy and handles clumsily. Even considering its low sticker price, this version of Nissan's small car feels low-rent. This edition of the Versa also scored a poor in the IIHS small-overlap crash test.
2007-2011
2007 Redesign Year
Nissan's subcompact Versa debuted in 2007 in both hatchback and sedan versions. Although smaller than the Sentra, it packs an impressively roomy rear seat and its tall roofline allows easy access. The 1.8- liter, four-cylinder engine is relatively refined, but needs to be revved up to deliver power. The standard six-speed manual is a bit clunky; the optional CVT is the better bet where smoothness is concerned. Fuel economy is good, but not a standout at 28 mpg with the CVT. We found the ride relatively comfortable and quiet, but handling wasn't a long suit. Curtain airbags were standard, but antilock brakes were rare in early models. For 2010, changes included standard ABS for 1.8 S models, the 1.8 SL got stability control and ABS. This iteration of the Versa holds the distinction of being named one of our top rated subcompact sedans.