2007-2008 Nissan Versa: Road Test

Manual-transmission models feel labored and weak at low speed. Plenty of shifting is required for maximum acceleration. A test S with manual shift took 9.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. An SL with the CVT feels livelier from a stop and provides acceptable passing response. Versas excel in fuel economy. An S hatchback with manual shift averaged 27.4 mpg in a test that included gas-eating performance runs. Another S hatchback, with four-speed automatic, averaged 24.8 mpg. An SL sedan with the CVT averaged 24.5 mpg in mostly city driving. Versas use regular-grade gasoline. A long wheelbase for its class helps impart a comfortable, controlled ride on most surfaces. Large bumps still register sharply, however, and moderate bobbing occurs over wavy pavement. For a basic economy car without overt performance pretension, Versa is nimble and fun to drive. Precise steering helps. Sporty feel is blunted a bit by moderate body lean in turns, but tires squeal little. Tidy dimensions aid close-quarters maneuverability, and brake control is good. Buzzy during rapid acceleration, the Versa engine is subdued otherwise. A quiet highway ride is disturbed by modest wind noise from mirrors, plus some coarse-surface tire thrum. Controls are logically placed and, for the most part, clearly marked. Especially nice are the large rotary climate controls. A wireless cell phone link is an unexpected feature in this class, though it only understands commands that are spoken slowly, loudly, and very clearly. The SL interior is highlighted by plenty of soft-touch materials and classy-looking gauges-uncommon in this price class. S models lack soft-touch surfaces, but materials are still pleasant for the price. One test Versa suffered from malfunctioning power door locks. Another had a few dashboard squeaks. Large, comfortable front seats belie the Versa's small-car price. Even large adults have plenty of room, though tall occupants will want more seat travel. Visibility is good to all directions. Note that only the SL has a height-adjustable driver's seat. Rear-seat space is exceptional for two large adults, highlighted by ample knee space and foot space. The rear armrest on SL models is a nice touch for a low-priced car. Sedan trunks are tall and large for this class. Hatchback cargo room is generous, but the load floor in both body styles is interrupted by rear seats that don't fold flush, creating an annoying stepped surface. Plenty of interior storage space is available, including front and rear map pockets.

Value for the Money
Priced like a subcompact when new, Versa offers a blend of room, comfort, and refinement that makes an easy match for any number of more-expensive compact cars. Acceleration is modest, true, but that's balanced by good road manners. All in all, this Nissan is a must-see Best Buy, new or secondhand, for the value-conscious shopper.