Used 2007 Nissan Versa

Several automakers, including Nissan, foresee a comeback in entry-level compact cars – triggered largely by rising fuel prices. "For the first time in many years," said a Nissan senior marketing manager, many shoppers are "giving serious consideration" to smaller automobiles. These marketing folks detect a "void" in the sub-$14,000 price range, noting that a new generation of young people, known as "echo boomers," will reach driving age soon. Nissan promises class-leading horsepower and torque for its new entrant, the Versa hatchback, along with generous interior space. Billed as a "no-compromises" value-priced offering that reaches beyond basic amenities, the Versa is surprisingly roomy inside. A sedan is due later.

Nissan’s CVT is virtually flawless. Almost no engine noise is noticeable in ordinary driving and you hear only a tolerable light snarl during hard acceleration. Acceleration rivals conventional automatics, though Versa falls somewhat short on upgrades – like most smaller cars. Reacting capably on curvy roads, it feels quite confident in the corners and exhibits good stability on expressways. Although the well-controlled ride is pleasant on good surfaces, on rougher roads the occupants may feel a lot of those surface imperfections, but few are particularly troubling. Deep-set gauges are easy enough to read.

The Versa provides considerably more knee and foot space than many larger automobiles. Front and rear headroom are abundant, too. Close to "chair-height" seats assure impressive comfort, and double French seam stitching on the seats is but one indicator of careful attention to detail. The compact rear suspension results in a low, flat cargo floor, and front seats are nearly as large as a Maxima’s. As in so many smaller cars, the center rear position is a hard perch.

Designers sought to avoid some customary small-car traits, including being boxy or bland – and they’ve succeeded. Taller and more upright in stance than most smaller cars, the Versa is exceptionally easy to enter. You can see at a glance that the passenger compartment takes up much of the car’s length, the back doors are particularly long and the windshield is about as far forward as possible. Five-door hatchbacks excel in versatility but, like minivans, aren’t popular with everyone. Some shoppers might prefer to wait for the Versa sedan.

Rear-Seat Space:
Not too many larger cars are as easy to get into and out of, and as spacious for knees and feet, as the Versa. Rear-seat riders can expect real comfort, without asking to push the front seats far forward.

Continuously Variable Transmission:
Nissan has been a leader in CVT installations, which substitute a belt and twin variable-diameter pulleys for the usual gears. That effort pays off in exceptionally smooth, linear and rewarding operation – once the driver gets accustomed to the fact that no gear changes will be taking place.

Every Versa is equipped with seat-mounted side-impact airbags and head curtain airbags, a tire-pressure monitor, electric power steering and an engine immobilizer. The basic S model includes 15-inch steel wheels with full covers, body-colored mirrors, a cargo cover, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, 120-watt CD stereo, air conditioning and tilt steering wheel. The SL version adds a 180-watt stereo with six-CD changer, 15-inch alloy wheels, driver’s height adjustment, rear center armrest, remote keyless entry and power windows, locks and mirrors.

Anti-lock braking is optional for all models. Seven option groups are offered, including a Power Package for S models. An Audio Package for hatchbacks includes a Rockford Fosgate-powered subwoofer. SL models may have a Convenience Package that adds Intelligent Key entry, Bluetooth hand-free phone operation and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio switches. An SL Sport Package includes a rear roof spoiler, side sill spoilers, front and rear chin spoilers and fog lamps. XM or SIRIUS Satellite Radio may be installed in SL models and a sunroof is optional.

For the U.S. market, Nissan’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine has been specially tuned for stronger low-end torque. Three transmissions are available: a six-speed manual, four-speed automatic (delayed introduction), and the Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). As production increases, the CVT is expected to oust the four-speed automatic as an alternative to a manual gearbox. In the SL trim level, a four-speed automatic will not be offered at all. The CVT incorporates a virtual Low range, for long, steep hills and heavier pulling.

1.8-liter in-line 4
122 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
127 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 30/34 (manual), 28/35 (automatic), 30/36 (CVT automatic)