2010 Nissan Versa: Road Test
2010 Nissan Versa ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $9,900 - $16,530
- Invoice: $9,759 - $15,942
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Nissan Versa
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2010 Nissan Versa includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Nissan Versa from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Nissan Versa, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Nissan Versa help you decide if a 2010 Nissan Versa is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 4.5 |
Only Versa S and SL models have been made available for testing. 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
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
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 | 4.7 |
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 | 5.4 |
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. Kudos to Nissan for making traction control and an antiskid system available on Versa. We wish, however, these important safety features were standard on all models, rather than only on the top-end SL and optional on the S.
QUIETNESS
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4.3 |
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 | 5.6 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Versa interiors use lots of hard plastic, but the materials are attractive and 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 | 5.3 |
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 | 3.8 |
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. Interior storage is plentiful, 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 | 5.6 |
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, Versa is a must-see.
Total Score
| S hatchback, manual | S Sedan, automatic | S hatchback, automatic | SL hatchback, CVT | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 66 | 60 | 64 | 66 | 54.9 |
Total Score: 64
Scores for all Compact Cars
Next Step: Get a price quote from your local dealer ►
