Strengths

Low price; good fuel economy; spacious interior; strongest engine in class; excellent NHTSA crash test results.

 

Changes

For 2009, Nissan adds 2 more trim levels to their Versa Lineup. Rather than add more options and luxury, and increase the price, they simplified the lineup to match customers' tighter budgets. With a starting price of $9,900, the new 1.6L Base model Versa is the least expensive vehicle sold in America.

 

Value

Nissan's 2009 Versa remains one of the most spacious sub-compacts available today, with the hatchback boasting 17.8 cubic feet of luggage space behind the standard 60/40 split fold-down rear seat and a very generous 50.4 cubic feet when configured in full cargo mode. The available 1.8L engine (S and SL editions) is more powerful than its competitors', and the Versa offers a roomier cabin and more head and legroom than many in its segment. Despite having a very low cost of entry, the Versa's S and SL editions come well equipped with air conditioning, 6 front and side air bags, and a CD player. The new 1.6 edition is a new value leader, bringing Nissan quality and design to the least expensive vehicle sold in the United States.

 

Overview

The Versa is Nissan's entry-level model, slotted below the Sentra. It offers energy, budget and safety-conscious consumers inexpensive entry into one of the safest and smartest small cars on the market.

The Versa is available in 4 trim levels and 2 body styles starting with the 1.6L Base edition which features an ultra low starting price of under $10,000. With 107 horsepower, the 1.6 editions offer less power and amenities than the 1.8 S or SL editions but share the same ride, handling and safety features, not to mention the Nissan quality standard.

With S trim's base price of $13,100 and SL price of $16,100, buyers get a strong 1.8L inline 4-cylinder making 122 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque and plenty of amenities usually reserved for more upscale segments, such as power mirrors, air conditioning, a CD player, a tire pressure monitor and 6 air bags. The SL models feature 15-inch alloy wheels, upgraded cloth seat trim, power accessories, a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and an auxiliary audio input jack. A 60/40 split rear seat is standard on all hatchbacks and on the SL sedan.

A Convenience Package adds Bluetooth and remote keyless entry and ignition. A Power Package can be ordered on the base car which includes power windows and locks, plus a remote keyless entry system. A sunroof, XM satellite radio, and steering wheel mounted audio controls are available on the SL, and the S now has available cruise control.

The 2009 Versa retains its functionally intuitive cabin design, making control of all dials and knobs a snap for driver and passenger alike. The car returns impressive fuel economy in all trim levels, with a model-best of 26 city/34 highway coming from the 1.6 Base edition.

In safety tests, the Versa's combination of standard and available safety features can't be beat. Dual-stage front air bags, roof-mounted front and rear curtain air bags, active head restraints and ten other features come standard, while an ABS package with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist can be added for $250.