2009 Nissan Versa [ 2008 , 2007 ]
Nissan Versa - What the Auto Press Says
The Versa is a roomy subcompact with pleasing performance and six standard air bags, a rarity for a small car. But the Versa doesn't offer many other standard features, and its gas mileage isn't as good as some other subcompacts.
Test drivers like the 2009 Nissan Versa's interior comfort and upscale design, but report that the compact's driving performance and fuel economy isn't on par with competitors. Rising gas prices have increased interest in the subcompact market and the Versa, but several reviewers are on the fence when they compare the Versa's performance to that of the similarly sized and styled Toyota Yaris, and another subcompact with five-doors, the Honda Fit. In our hatchback rankings, the Versa is neither at the top or the bottom of the list.
First introduced in 2007, the 2009 Nissan Versa is relatively unchanged since that time. It's offered as either a five-door hatchback or a four-door sedan with two trims each, the S and SL. If you're in the market for a subcompact, consider the frequently compared Toyota Yaris. If you want a hatchback, also consider the Honda Fit.
- "No one, not one expert in the field, expects any major reduction in oil prices in the future. Hence, the Versa should be near the top of any commuters shopping list." -- MarketWatch
- "Though it's basic transportation, the Versa sedan has an exceptionally roomy interior for this class, good power, and the only six-speed manual gearbox option in its class." -- Car and Driver
- "Of the three entry-level amigos, I would take the Honda Fit instead of the Versa, but the Versa instead of the Yaris. All three should give you dependable, thrifty transportation, but the Honda factors in at least a little fun." -- Orlando Sentinel
- "The Fit, Yaris and Versa all have pros and cons. But many small-car buyers might find the Versa is the best all-round auto of the trio for American driving because of its big-car feel and roominess." -- Chicago Sun-Times
- "If the Versa…is the middle child in the family, it is the steady, serious child, a strong and able sibling to the Fit's sassy sister and the Yaris's quiet, bookish brother." -- Boston Globe
- "Bottom line, the Nissan Versa is a big small car with comfort, performance and versatility. It's roomy and offers good fuel economy." -- New Car Test Drive
Versa Performance - 6.6 (Mediocre)
It doesn't offer many thrills, but still the 2009 Nissan Versa is described as a sufficient performer. Reviews like the Atlanta Journal-Constitution explain, "It's no hot rod, but the Versa is sort of fun to drive." Continue with our full Performance Review for more information on the Versa's standard six-speed stick shift compares to the continuously variable transmission. continue
Versa Exterior - 6.5 (Mediocre)
Some call the 2009 Versa another boxy, boring design, in keeping with its competitors, but others describe the car's appearance as goofy. New Car Test Drive says, "Coming at you, the Versa is clearly related to the retro-future-cool Quest minivan," but they also note, "We find the hatch more appealing. We like its distinctive styling and find it more versatile than the sedan." Continue with our full Exterior Review to read varying descriptions of the car's angular shape. continue
Versa Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)
The Versa gets high marks for interior comfort and quality. Mother Proof says, "It's the interior that really impressed me. It felt big -- far bigger than I imagined it would." Automobile Magazine says, "take a look around, and it's evident the Nissan's dance with the devil's own bad plastics has finally ended." Continue with our full Interior Review for additional perspective on the Versa's cabin quality and features. continue
Versa Safety - 9.5 (Excellent)
The Nissan Versa is a high scorer in both government and insurance industry crash tests, but be warned that its models do not come with standard anti-lock brakes. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn what features are included standard and optional to protect passengers. continue
Versa Reliability - NA
The 2009 Nissan Versa comes with a three-year or 36,000-mile limited warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn more about powertrain coverage. continue
