2021 Nissan Versa

Nissan builds the Versa in a sedan body style on a front-wheel-drive platform. It is available in three trim levels, each using the same four-cylinder engine. The Japanese carmaker prices the Versa S trim at about $15,000, making it one of the lowest-priced new cars for sale stateside. A manual transmission is standard; those not interested in changing gears can get a continuously variable transmission for about $17,000. The Versa comes well-equipped for the price, with a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a suite of driver safety aids like pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking. Other notable features are automatic headlights, variable intermittent wipers, power side mirrors, cloth upholstery, power controls, air conditioning, push-button ignition, cruise control, and a four-speaker audio system. Nissan’s base infotainment system is one of the more comprehensive for the price, with a 7.0-inch touchscreen and voice controls. It has Bluetooth for phone calls and music streaming, plus front and rear USB ports. The midrange SV brings the price to roughly $18,000. It adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for easy smartphone connectivity. It also comes with satellite radio, a split-folding back seat, heated body-color mirrors, alloy wheels, vinyl cabin trim, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The SR is the best-equipped and sportiest Versa, priced from $18,500. It features gloss-black exterior accents, 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, fog lamps, remote engine start, proximity keyless entry, leatherette dashboard, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an upgraded six-speaker sound system. You get a few options with the Versa. An Electronics Package adds an auto-dimming rearview mirror that prevents glare from following cars’ headlights. It includes a garage door opener. The Convenience Package adds a touch of luxury with automatic climate control, heated front seats, and adaptive cruise control.

Commuter cars tend to prioritize fuel economy over driving performance, and the Nissan Versa is a perfect example of this. Its 1.6-liter four-cylinder gas engine returns an EPA-estimated 40 mpg on the highway and 32 mpg around the city. Those are impressive figures, among the best of any non-hybrid car. At the same time, while the Versa’s small size and secure handling make it a breeze to steer into tight parking spots, it doesn’t corner on the road as confidently as some rivals. Adding to this is the engine’s low power output; the downside of excellent fuel efficiency is often a lack of power at higher speeds. Its 122 horsepower requires some patience when passing slower cars on the highway. The base Versa uses a traditional five-speed manual transmission. Again, while it works well, Nissan’s manual doesn’t provide sporty shifts. It also dings fuel economy compared to the CVT. That transmission is even less fun to drive, but it gives big efficiency returns.

The Versa’s interior is among the more modern in its segment. Nissan’s style sense permeates with its trademark dark colors and sporty metal accents. The steering wheel is comfortable and features built-in media buttons for easy access to things like music volume and Bluetooth calls. The cabin punches above its weight with technology in general, with a 7.0-inch touchscreen and helpful driver safety aids. Upper trims add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interior feels airy and open, thanks to the Versa’s high ceiling. Front-seat passengers have excellent legroom, giving them more than enough space for stretching out and relaxing on long trips. The Versa follows the lead of larger Nissans by including some of the most supportive seats in its class. Those sitting in the back don’t have quite so much room. In fact, the legroom is too snug for tall adults. Some competitors offer a little more space in the back, but shoppers who regularly transport anyone larger than kids should consider stepping up to a compact or midsize sedan. The Versa has a reasonably large trunk. It excels as a subcompact car in many ways, making it a great choice for college students and commuters. Those who spend a lot of time in their car will appreciate the optional heated front seats and adaptive cruise control.