Acceleration

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
4	3	3	4	4.8

Manual- and 4-speed-automatic transmission versions feel labored and weak at low speed. Lots of shifting of the manual is required for maximum acceleration; an S model so equipped did 0-60 mph in 9.5 seconds. SL hatchbacks with the CVT feels livelier from a stop and provides acceptable passing response.

Fuel Economy

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
8	7	7	7	6.7

In Consumer Guide testing, an S hatchback with manual transmission averaged 27.4 mpg in a test that included gas-eating performance runs. A test S hatchback with the 4-speed automatic averaged 24.8 mpg. An SL sedan with the CVT averaged 24.5 mpg in mostly city driving. Versa uses regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
5	5	5	5	5.1

Versa has a long wheelbase for its class, and it imparts a comfortable and controlled ride on most surfaces. Large bumps still register sharply, and there is moderate bobbing over wavy pavement.

Steering/Handling/Braking

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
6	6	6	6	5.9

For a basic economy car with no overt performance pretension, Versa is nimble and fun to drive. The steering is precise, with little tire squeal and moderate at worst body lean in fast turns. Tidy dimensions aid close-quarters maneuverability. Braking control is good.

Quietness

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
4	4	4	4	4.5

Versa's engine is buzzy in rapid acceleration but is subdued otherwise. The quiet highway ride is disturbed by modest wind noise from the mirrors and some coarse-surface tire thrum.

Controls

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
6	6	6	6	5.7

The 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 convenience feature in this class. Its usefulness is let down somewhat, as it only understands commands that are spoken slowly, loudly, and clearly.

Details

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
6	6	6	7	5.2

The SL interior is highlighted by lots of soft-touch materials and classy looking gauges--uncommon at this price point. The S model lacks the soft-touch surfaces, but materials are still pleasant for the price. One test model suffered from malfunctioning power door locks. Another suffered from a few dashboard creaks.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
6	6	6	6	5.7

Large and comfortable seats belie Versa's small-car price. Even large adults have plenty of room, though tall occupants will want more seat travel. Visibility is good in all directions. Note that only the SL has a height-adjustable driver seat.

Room/Comfort (rear)

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
6	6	6	6	4.1

Exceptional room for two large adults, highlighted by ample knee clearance and foot space. The rear armrest on the SL model is a nice touch for a low-price car.

Cargo Room

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
7	3	7	7	4.9

The sedan's trunk is tall and large for the class. Versa hatchbacks have generous cargo room, but the load floor in both body styles is interrupted by rear seats that don't fold flush, creating an annoying stepped surface. There is plenty of interior storage, including front and rear map pockets.

Value within Class

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
9	9	9	10	6.2

Versa's priced like a subcompact, but its blend of room, comfort, and refinement are an easy match for any number of more-expensive compact cars. Acceleration is modest, but that's balanced by good road manners. All in all, this Nissan is a Best Buy.

Total Score

S hatchback, manual	S sedan, automatic	S hatchback, automatic	SL hatchback, CVT	Class Average
67	61	65	68	58.8

Scores for all Compact Cars

Low Score		50
Average Score		58
High Score		71