2011 Nissan Versa: One of the Lowest-Priced Vehicles in America

What’s New:

After extensive changes last model year, the Versa receives the following minor tweaks for the 2011 model year: an in-dash 6-disc CD player for the sedan 1.8 S and the addition of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for the Versa sedan 1.6 (except 1.6 Base).

Must-Have Goodies:

With a starting price of just under $10,750, which includes the destination fee, the Versa is being touted by Nissan as being one of the lowest-priced vehicles in America. With that being the case, one should expect a no frills vehicle without air condition or an audio system, until they step up the higher end trim packages.

Just like on the 2010 model, the Versa is still available as either a hatchback or sedan in several trim packages: a base, a mid-level S package or a well-equipped SL package.

However, steeping into the higher trim packages, one can expect such features as an auto dimming interior mirror, two aluminum kick plates, splash guards and floor mats.

In addition to some of the basic optional features noted, some Versas are available with a Convenience Package, which includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Nissan’s Intelligent keyless entry system, a Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System with steering-wheel-mounted controls and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.

Also our Versa hatchback, with the SL trim, was accessorized with Nissan’s Navigation and Satellite radio system, which is also equipped with real-time traffic information. 

What Rocked: 

While the Nissan Versa is classified as a subcompact, its roomy, spacious interior places it in the same class as many midsize sedans. In addition to the spacious cabin, the front seats are extremely comfortable. And we were more than impressed with the clear-sounding, 6-speaker 180-watt satellite system found in our Versa.

What We Disliked:

Since Nissan is touting the Versa as one of the lowest-priced new vehicles on the road today in America, we were experienced sticker shock when we realized that our 1.8-liter, SL trim hatchback with the optional Navigation and Satellite Radio Package listed for $18,415.00.

Any Juice:

This subcompact is available with two four-cylinder engines: a 1.6-liter, 107-horsepower engine or a peppier 1.8-liter, 122-horsepower engine.

The Verdict:

For those in the market for a well-built, roomy subcompact sedan or hatchback, the Versa should be at the top of the shopping list. While the Versa is classified as a subcompact, the interior is as roomy inside as many midsize vehicles. In fact, this is one of the roomiest vehicles in its class. In addition to the spacious cabin, the Versa has a tad bit more power under the hood than its competitors, making it a little faster when zooming from 0 to 60 mph. Moreover, the layout of the instrument panel controls is both simple and easy-to-use. No owner’s manual or advance degree is needed to operate this vehicle.

And although the Versa isn’t as stylish as Ford’s Fiesta or Honda’s Fit, Nissan says it’s all about providing a fuel-efficient, reliable vehicle at an affordable price. Out of the gate, a stripped-down Versa starts at $10,700 and can easily run up to $18,000, when fully optioned. 

Competition: 2011 Ford Fiesta, 2011 Honda Fit and 2011 Toyota Yaris