2023 Nissan Versa

S

$17,000 (est)

SV

$20,000 (est)

$21,000 (est)

The top-of-the-line Versa SR is the one to get. Sure, it’s the most expensive version, but we think it’s worth it for all the enticing standard equipment it provides. Both the SR and the slightly less expensive SV come with an automatic transmission, and their infotainment systems feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. However, only the SR gets 17-inch rims, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, LED headlights, passive entry, and remote start. For 2023, the SR gets even more standard equipment, like adaptive cruise control, a WiFi hotspot, and a new 8.0-inch touchscreen. For those who live in colder regions, we’d also add the Convenience package for its heated front seats.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Every Versa is motivated by a 122-hp four-cylinder engine that powers the front wheels. A five-speed manual is the default transmission on base models, but a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) can be had on the S, too. The latter comes standard on the higher SV and SR trim levels. While the Versa feels slow when pulling away from stoplights and during highway-passing situations, its CVT helps prevent coarse noises by mimicking actual gearchanges. The Versa we drove had a smooth ride that isolated road imperfections. It also was much better to drive than the version it replaces, providing accurate steering feel and consistent brake-pedal feedback.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The Versa is rated up to 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway when equipped with the CVT. The entry-level Versa with the manual has significantly worse figures, with an estimated 27 mpg city and 35 highway. We tested an automatic-equipped Versa on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, where it earned 40 mpg. For more information about the Versa’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Versa’s interior no longer looks and feels like a children’s play area. It uses nice materials throughout and has soft-touch surfaces on the doors and dashboard. While Nissan doesn’t offer power-adjustable seats and leather upholstery here, the fanciest model can be had with heated front seats as well as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The mid-level SV model unlocks some desirable standard features, such as a digital screen in the gauge cluster. For 2023, the SV also gains a center console with an armrest and a wireless charging pad. The top-tier Versa SR brings automatic climate control, passive hands-free entry, remote start, and more, and adds both a WiFi hotspot and standard adaptive cruise control for 2023. The back seat can comfortably fit two adults but both the Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio have more rear-seat headroom and legroom. The sedan has useful cubbies on its center console, and we managed to fit six carry-on suitcases in its trunk; 17 total with the back seat folded.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Versa features a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with useful buttons and knobs; for 2023, the SR model gets a standard 8.0-inch display. Only the SV and SR trims have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard, but a new package for 2023 allows buyers to add the systems to the base S trim. During our evaluation period, we found that the CarPlay interface responded better to our inputs than the car’s normal menus did. Every Versa has three USB ports and voice-command capability, but anyone who wants the ability to listen to SiriusXM satellite radio will have to look higher than the base model.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Nissan sedan comes with a lot of standard driver-assistance technology, including automatic high-beams and lane-departure warning. For more information about the Versa’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard front and rear automated emergency braking
• Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

While Nissan’s limited and powertrain warranties fall short of the lengthy coverage that Hyundai and Kia provide, its protection plans are comparable with most other rivals. The Versa also doesn’t come with complimentary maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

More Features and Specs