2008 Nissan Versa Hatchback Review

The Versa is a subcompact car that debuted in 2007. At first the Versa was only as a hatchback, but a sedan version was released later that year. Like many new subcompacts, the Versa offers a lot of space inside a smaller vehicle frame.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

In a recent wave of compact hatchbacks, it'd be easy for the Nissan Versa Hatchback to be lost in the crowd. But it's set itself apart by offering a spacious interior and a powerful engine. It was definitely designed for the American car buyer in mind, and many will be happy to have a smaller alternative that doesn't compromise. If you need to move a step down, but don't want to feel cramped, the Versa Hatchback is for you.

What's New For 2008:

A Sport Package is available on the SL, which adds a rear spoiler and other sporty accents. The S trim now offers cruise control as an option. The S and SL trims are available as hatchback or sedan models.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Nissan Versa price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$13,100

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:
5

Gas Mileage:
26/31

Engine:
1.8L I4

Horsepower:
122@5200RPM

Torque:
127@4800RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Manual

Drive:
FR/FWD

Fuel Capacity:
13

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
36/36000

Powertrain Warranty:
60/60000

Rust Warranty:
60/Unlimit

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems with the Versa include fogging lamps, loose wheel covers, and bugs with the tire pressure monitoring system. One recall has been issued so far for damaged terminals. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Versa hatchback earned 4 stars in government crash testing for both the front and side impacts. It received perfect "Good" scores in testing conducted by the IIHS. Tire-pressure monitoring and full side airbags are standard. Anti-lock brakes and brake assist are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Hatchback is nicer-looking than sedan
+ Roomy, Powerful
+ Nice starting price

Cons
- No power accessories in base model
- Loud engine
- Not as fun as some

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chevrolet Aveo5 costs a few hundred less, but lacks a CD player. The Kia Rio5 costs about the same, but doesn't have a six-speed transmission. The 2009 Toyota Matrix has power accessories and anti-lock brakes, but costs over $3,000.

What Others Are Saying:

"The Fit, Yaris and Versa all have pros and cons. But many small-car buyers might find the Versa is the best all-round auto of the trio for American driving because of its big-car feel and roominess." - Chicago Sun-Times

"On the road, the Versa performs acceptably, with a good compromise between ride and handling. As with most front-drive cars, it under-steers, which means that it feels as if it wants to go straight ahead when you want to turn. In straight-line driving, it lacks some on-center feel, requiring minute corrections to keep it on track." - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

"It's part of a new wave of small, fuel efficient, and affordable cars, and it belongs in the middle of the pack, somewhere between the basic Toyota Yaris and the fun-to-drive, loaded with safety Honda Fit. The Versa is larger, more powerful, and roomier than either of those cars. That makes it the perfect vehicle for those who want to move down from something larger but who don't want to go too small (though the Fit and the Yaris are not cramped)." - The Boston Globe

Read more about the 2008 Nissan Versa Hatchback at the Nissan manufacturer web site.

Published on Monday, March 10, 2008 - Email to a friend

Copyright 2006 BuyingAdvice.com, INC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.

New Cars