by John Sarkis

Created on: October 15, 2009   Last Updated: October 22, 2010

Because of its unique and comfortable price, the Versa has a few competitors.  Amongst its rivals are: Toyota Yaris, Hyundai Accent, and Chevrolet Aveo.  Exterior for the 2009 year model: a new grill was added to the up-level SL hatchback for the 2010 year model. Just a few of the things which were optional for the 2009 model year, are standard for 2010 making the Versa all the more attractive to the consumers in its price range: standard power outside mirrors, and standard body-colored front/rear bumpers, door handles and mirrors. Interior: two tone dashboard slopes away from the driver with a high-mounted center new available fabrics. An MP3 jack has been added to the base model, and there are available upgrades if you want to control your iPod through the stereo system. Standard air and standard 12-volt power outlet." As is the case with many cars in the Versa's price range; many of the things which one may find standard on pricier vehicles, are optional on the Versa. "Optional speed-sensitive volume, optional power doors and windows and cruise control, optional leather-wrapped steering wheel with mounted controls, optional key-less entry/start, optional bluetooth wireless phone communication, and optional satellite radio."

The Versa comes with two available engines: a 1.6 liter four-cylinder and a 1.8 liter four cylinder. Hatchbacks come only with the 1.8. The standard transmission on the base sedan is a five speed manual. Other available transmissions are: a four speed automatic, and a six speed manual. The base 1.6 liter engine produces 107 horsepower with 111 pounds feet of torque; the 1.8 liter offers 122 horsepower with 127 pounds feet of torque.

"Standard front side impact and side curtain airbags, standard smart key that immobilizes the engine in an attempted theft, optional antilock brakes with brake assist, and optional electronic stability system."

The Versa is very nice looking, and appeals to the younger generation.  Like most Nissans, it's reliable-yet attractive at the same time, so younger people who just got out of college don't feel like they're giving up on much-albeit: the Versa will never be a BMW or an Audi 

There aren't too many new vehicles in the Versa's price range.  A brand new stripped Versa costs in the vicinity of $10,000, and to think; some used cars cost twice and three times as much making the Versa all the more popular amongst the younger community. Nissans are great cars, so a new Versa is a good automotive investment.

Learn more about this author, John Sarkis.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.