Categorized | Green Cars

The Nissan Versa

Posted on 08 June 2008

Subcompacts have evolved beyond just being cheap and fuel-efficient and this is what the Nissan Versa is all about. Despite its excellent fuel economy, space-efficient interior design and solid build quality, the four-door Versa remains very affordable.

The Nissan Versa was new to America for 2007 but it had already been available in Japan under the Tiida name, and in Europe as the Renault Clio.

The Nissan Versa is available in two well-equipped trim levels, the base 1.8 S and 1.8 SL and the vehicle’s high level of fit and finish might just surprise those who haven’t looked at subcompacts recently. The seats are well-tailored, and even the S trim features upscale-texture suede tricot upholstery and above-average plastics. It also, just like most cars, has air-conditioning, a stereo with CD player and a tilt steering column. The SL trim adds a 180-watt stereo; in-dash six-CD changer; cruise control; driver-seat height adjustment and power door locks, windows and mirrors. Offered in different packages, there are also other options such as such as keyless entry, Bluetooth and a Rockford Fosgate sound system.

Coming in two body styles, a four-door hatchback and a four-door sedan, this Nissan hatchback is a great entry-level car and has indeed taken over the Sentra’s spot. The Nissan Versa has huge amount of interior space with extraordinary headroom. There is ample legroom, even in the rear seats, though it comes at the expense of rear cargo space. It has got very attractive storage areas built in and around the doors.

A 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine good for 122 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque gives power for the front-wheel-drive Nissan Versa. For this beautiful Nissan subcompact, a six-speed manual transmission is standard and a four-speed automatic is available as an option in the S trim. The SL offers an optional Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) which improves fuel efficiency through the smoother and more precise shifting caused by its infinite number of gear ratios.

Compared to sedans and coupes, five-door hatchbacks like the Versa are, very versatile more cargo-friendly than a Honda Civic Coupe but it also has few limitations. First, it has as a trunk opening that’s a bit narrow and a low tailgate when it’s raised. Another is the car’s second-row split bench seatbacks don’t fold flat and lack a tumble mechanism, serving to limit available space. But despite these limitations, the Versa is still a car loved by many especially those who are economical

This post was written by:

Marie - who has written 106 posts on A Green Idea.


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