Test Drive: 2009 Nissan Versa
Once upon a time in the mid-1970s, Americans were introduced to a little compact economy car that was made to fight the imports. Although the car shall remain nameless in this review, fans still call it a solid, compact, and reliable car. Anecdotally, it seemed most owners loved it. In fact many of those past owners - including me - still speak fondly of it to this day. Nissan has arguably introduced the 2009 version of the beloved compact that was popular for a different automaker. The 2009 Nissan Versa is not too big, not too small, and handles just right. Plus it's plenty comfortable and fuel efficient with a rating of 24-mpg city and 32-mpg highway.
As its critics will tell you, though, if you're looking for anything beyond a solid reliable ride - if you long for your friends to heap superlatives such as 'sporty'? and 'jazzy'? upon your ride - look elsewhere. But for those discriminating few, the 2009 Nissan Versa can't be beaten especially when you consider a base Manufacturers' Suggested Retail Price of $9,990, including destination and handling charges.
2009 Nissan Versa Exterior
The Versa is available in a five-door hatchback or four-door sedan, each available in two models. The large halogen headlights, short rear overhang and large headlights give it a distinctive look.
I test-drove the hatchback and found the look good, especially considering the 15 inch steel wheels with full wheel covers, and body-color side mirrors and door handles. No, it's not a sports car but that's not what I expected or wanted when I drove this car.
I was looking for a strong car that didn't scream 'stodgy.'? The Versa delivers clean, young lines. Those that want more personality may opt for a Sport Package that includes a roof-mounted rear spoiler, lower body side sill extensions and fog lights.
2009 Nissan Versa Interior
The Nissan Versa may be a small car but its cabin feels roomy and the materials high quality if not lush. I might go so far to say that it was more comfortable than the interiors of other cars that ring up at more than twice the price.
That comfort extends to the rear seat. Although some compact and even mid-size cars are cramped and uncomfortable, the passenger seats in the Versa are plenty comfortable and offer above-average legroom and headroom. Plus the rear seats can fold into a 60/40 split which is great for hauling longer items. Although all the cloth seats are somewhat plain they are nicely cushioned and supportive. No back aches from these, even for those passengers well above the 20-something age zone.
There's also 13.8 cubic feet of cargo space plus lots of nooks and crannies in the dash and doors to hold items. Plus the cargo hold has a reversible mat - carpet on one side, plastic on the other - which is great for those with kids, pets, or even plants (ever try to get the dirt out of the back when it spills from pots?). The front and rear seat cup holders are among the unexpected extras that make the rides much more pleasant.
As you might expect, the Versa isn't loaded with extras. The ones that are included - such as a cargo space light, tilt steering wheel, and microfilter in the air conditioner - are pluses the really count toward a more comfortable ride.
The car also has plenty of safety features as evidenced by the four-star crash test ratings it received from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
2009 Nissan Versa Performance
Like my long-ago departed and much loved economy car, the Versa doesn't offer a fancy drive. The 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine is plenty perky for jaunts around town. I wasn't looking at this engine to rev up hills or drive cross country. It likely could if needed, but this car seems built for around-town jaunts and handles those well.
Critics can fuss that the Versa isn't fast off the starting line but who cares? It's easy to drive, stable, and smooth. Yes, it's jarring when you hit a pothole or curb, but this isn't a luxury vehicle - it's a compact economy car, and that type of ride quality is to be expected. However, the braking and handling were smooth and responsive.
The Nissan Versa is a great commuter car and perfect for short around-town jaunts. But if you're looking for sporty, high-speed thrills, look elsewhere. The Nissan Versa doesn't deliver in those ways - and it shouldn't.