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Nissan Versa: big space inside small package

Published 3:38 pm Friday, January 11, 2008

In July 2006, Nissan debuted its nifty, all-new Versa five-door hatchback for model year 2007, and introduced the sedan version six months later. Within a year, sales had reached nearly 60,000 units.

The five-passenger, front-wheel-drive Versa is the most affordable vehicle in the company’s lineup. Base pricing for both models starts at less than $13,000 — plus destination charge.

There are S and SL trim levels for both versions, and all models are powered by a nimble 1.8-liter, 122-horsepower DOHC four-cylinder engine with 127 lb-ft of torque. In a break from the meager transmission offerings usually served in this class, Versa comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and is available with a Nissan Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) as well as a four-speed electronically-controlled automatic with overdrive.

EPA fuel economy ratings are 26 mpg city, 31 mpg highway with the manual transmission; 27/33 with the CVT; and 24/32 with the four-speed.

Versa has an independent MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension, with front and rear stabilizer bars.

Anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist are available as optional equipment.

An advanced airbag system is standard and includes front-seat side impact airbags and full-length curtain side-impact airbags. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have both given Versa their highest safety test ratings.

Versa’s compact size and wheels-at-the-corners design make it a sporty handler, but its passenger cabin is remarkably roomy. Interior length from front to back is more than six feet, and even rear seat passengers have 38 inches of leg room.

Hatchback versions have a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, and when folded, cargo-carrying capacity expands to 50.4 cubic feet.

Seat comfort also belies Versa’s small size and economical pricing. Nissan says the front seats are almost as large as those used in the Maxima. They provide good support and are covered in high quality fabric.

Interior design is modern but handsome, and does not give the impression that cost-cutting was the highest priority. Everything looks well put-together, and materials are of good quality. Controls are attractive, logically arranged and easy to use. Storage space includes bins in the center console and dash, and map pockets in the front doors.

Standard equipment on the S version includes electric power steering, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel column, and four-speaker audio system with CD player. The SL also comes with cruise control with steering wheel mounted controls, power windows and door locks, and remote keyless entry. The SL’s standard sound system has six speakers, in-dash six-disc CD changer, and MP3 capability.

Options available on Versa include Bluetooth phone system, Intelligent Key (keyless operation), XM satellite radio, premium Clarion audio system, and a Sport Package that adds fog lights and exterior effects such as spoilers and sill extensions.

My tester was a hatchback (my preferred model), in the S trim level with four-speed automatic transmission, optioned with the $700 power package (this is a must — as necessary as a remote control is to a TV), cruise control ($200), ABS package (well worth the extra $250), splash guards ($110), and a five-piece floor/trunk mat set.