2011 Nissan Versa Returns as Affordable, Compact Package
With a base price of $9,990, the new 2011 Nissan Versa is a top contender for most wallet-friendly vehicle of the year. Thankfully, a roomy interior, stellar fuel economy and long list of optional features help ensure a low price isn't the only thing the Versa has going for it. Learn what's new on the 2011 Nissan Versa and review specs, mpgs and features.
What's New - 2011 Nissan Versa
For 2011, Nissan takes the philosophy of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." As such, there are hardly any new changes for the 2011 Versa. The 1.6 sedan trim now comes standard with antilock brakes and the 1.8 S trim boosts convenience with a six-disc CD changer.
New 2011 Nissan Versa Styling
The Nissan Versa is available as either a sedan or hatchback (note, however, that the hatchback starts at $13,695). While the sedan delivers a slightly generic exterior, it is far from unattractive. Still, if you want a more distinctive or attractive vehicle, then chances are you'll want to look at other small cars that make styling a priority. The hatchback Nissan Versa, on the other hand, delivers a fair amount of personality that helps it stand out from the crowd.
Inside, the Versa delivers a much more refined interior than the price tag suggests. The vehicle also receives accolades for delivering one of the roomiest rear seats in the compact class. Certainly, those who frequently cart around kids will find the Versa an affordable and competent vehicle option. Sedan models also offer decent trunk space (13.8 cubic feet). Hatchbacks boost rear real estate to 17.8 cubic feet.
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New 2011 Nissan Versa Performance
Nissan does a great job of balancing affordability with performance. A base 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine musters 107 horsepower. Despite this low figure, the Versa doesn't necessarily feel sluggish or underpowered. Added pep can be found in the 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes 122 horsepower. Responsive handling and nimble cornering help the Versa earn descriptors such as "fun-to-drive" and "zippy."
Thanks in part to its small engines, the Nissan Versa is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles for the year. Base models earn an impressive 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Opt for the 1.8-liter engine, and those numbers drop to 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Review full 2011 Nissan Versa specifications.
New 2011 Nissan Versa Safety
Standard safety features for the Versa are few and far between. Base models come equipped with six airbags. Antilock brakes, stability control and traction control are all available as optional upgrades. Despite these limited safety features, the 2011 Versa earns a top crash test score of "Good" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
New 2011 Nissan Versa Prices
It's hard to beat the base $9,990 price tag attached to the Nissan Versa. However, the near non-existent list of standard features will likely have most drivers looking at the available features list. Base models come equipped with a tilt steering wheel and intermittent wipers. For a little more, you can add air conditioning, antilock brakes and a stereo system. The 1.8 S trim level is available with keyless entry, power accessories and cruise control. Top-of-the-line models offer Bluetooth, keyless ignition, steering-wheel controls, sunroof, satellite radio and touchscreen navigation. Add on everything that Nissan makes available, and the Versa's MSRP nearly doubles to $16,900.
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