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2009 Nissan Versa Full Review
Date Published: 9/04/08
Also in the 2009 Nissan Versa Review:
5.
6.
Nissan Versa Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2009 Nissan Versa Review
The 2009 Nissan Versa is largely unchanged. Versa is offered as a 4-door sedan or 4-door hatchback in S or up-level SL trim. These compact cars slot beneath Nissan's Sentra in size and price. The only engine is a 122-hp 1.8-liter 4-cylinder. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on the S. Available on the S and standard on the SL sedan is a 4-speed automatic. The SL hatchback has a standard continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Available safety features include ABS, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. S models include air conditioning and a tilt steering wheel. Optional on S and standard on SL are cruise control, remote entry, and power locks/windows/mirrors. A wireless cell phone link, keyless access and engine start, remote engine start, and a sunroof are optional on the SL.
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2009 Nissan Versa Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Fuel economy | Engine noise |
| Rear-seat room | Wind noise |
| Cargo room (hatchback) | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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 hatchback with the CVT feels livelier from a stop and provides acceptable passing response.
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
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 hatchback with the CVT feels livelier from a stop and provides acceptable passing response.
Fuel Economy
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.
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
| 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
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
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.
| 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
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.
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.8 |
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
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.
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.7 |
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
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.
| 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
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.
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 7 | 5 |
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)
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.
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
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)
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.
| 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
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. Interior storage is plentiful, including front and rear map pockets.
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
| 7 | 3 | 7 | 7 | 5 |
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. Interior storage is plentiful, including front and rear map pockets.
Value within Class
Versa is 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 must-see.
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 10 | 6.3 |
Versa is 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 must-see.
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 | 48 | |
| Average Score | 58 | |
| High Score | 74 |
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2009 Nissan Versa Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 07/23/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| S 4-door sedan, manual | $12,990 | $12,539 | $695 |
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| S 4-door sedan, automatic | $13,990 | $13,500 | $695 |
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| S 4-door hatchback, manual | $12,990 | $12,539 | $695 |
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| S 4-door hatchback, automatic | $13,990 | $13,500 | $695 |
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| SL 4-door sedan, automatic | $15,990 | $15,423 | $695 |
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| SL 4-door hatchback, CVT | $16,210 | $15,634 | $695 |
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
S
Powertrain
1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, front-seat active head restraints, tire-pressure monitor, emergency inside trunk release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, interior air filter, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, split folding rear seat (hatchback), power mirrors, AM/FM/CD player, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer (hatchback).
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 185/65HR15 tires, wheel covers.
SL adds to S:
Powertrain
4-speed automatic transmission (sedan), continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) [hatchback].
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cruise control, height-adjustable driver seat, split folding rear seat w/trunk pass-through (sedan), power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, digital-media player connection.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Alloy wheels.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Power Pkg.
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S
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$700
|
$607
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|
Power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, glovebox light, rear door pockets, door armrest pads.
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Convenience Pkg.
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SL
|
$650
|
$564
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Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, keyless access and starting, remote engine start, wireless cell phone link.
|
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Sunroof Pkg.
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||
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SL
|
$600
|
$520
|
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Power sunroof, illuminated visor mirrors. Requires Convenience Pkg., antilock brakes, satellite radio.
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Sport Pkg.
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SL hatchback
|
$700
|
$607
|
|
Rear spoiler, side sills, fog lights. Requires Convenience Pkg., Sunroof Pkg., antilock brakes.
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Safety |
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Antilock brakes
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S, SL
|
$250
|
$217
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Includes brake assist.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
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Rockford Fosgate sound system
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SL hatchback
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$300
|
$260
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Requires Convenience Pkg., Sunroof Pkg., antilock brakes, satellite radio.
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iPod adapter
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SL
|
$270
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$230
|
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Requires satellite radio.
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Satellite radio
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SL
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$150
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$131
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Requires Convenience Pkg., Sunroof Pkg., antilock brakes.
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Cruise control
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S
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$200
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$173
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Automatic day/night rearview mirror
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S, SL
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$125
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$109
|
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Interior accent lights
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S, SL
|
$300
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$252
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Floormats
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S, SL
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$155
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$119
|
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Includes trunk mat.
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Rear spoiler
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hatchback
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$250
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$218
|
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Mud guards
|
||
|
S, SL
|
$110
|
$81
|
|
|
||
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Get a FREE Price Quote:
2009 Nissan Versa Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Nissan Versa 4-door hatchback | Nissan Versa 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 102.4 | 102.4 |
| Overall Length, in. | 169.1 | 176.0 |
| Overall Width, in. | 66.7 | 66.7 |
| Overall Height, in. | 60.4 | 60.4 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2693 | 2671 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 50.4 | 13.8 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 13.2 | 13.2 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.6 | 40.6 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.4 | 41.4 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.3 | 37.9 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.0 | 38.0 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 1.8 /110 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 122 @ 5200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 127 @ 4800 |
| Availability | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|
| 6-speed manual | 26/31 |
| 4-speed automatic | 24/32 |
| CVT automatic | 27/33 |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Nissan Versa 4-door hatchback | Nissan Versa 4-door sedan |
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 | 4 |
| Rollover Resistance | 4 | 4 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 4 | 4 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/60,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Mexico
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2009 Nissan Versa Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Nissan Versa Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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