The Versa is offered in both sedan and hatchback body styles. There are four trim levels offered for the Versa sedan: S, S Plus, SV and SL. All are powered by a new 109-hp 1.6L 4-cylinder with continuously variable valve timing. In the S, a 5-speed manual transmission puts power to the front wheels, while S Plus, SV and SL cars are equipped with Nissan's Xtronic continuously variable transmission. When so equipped, the Versa sedan delivers an EPA estimate 40 mpg on the highway.
Even the base S trim offers enough features to keep drivers and passengers comfortable. These include halogen headlights, air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD stereo with two auxiliary audio inputs, power steering, trip computer, tilt steering wheel and a 6-way adjustable driver's seat.
In the SV, buyers will find power mirrors, locks and windows, with driver's side 1-touch auto up/down, a tachometer and upgraded trip computer, a 4-speaker stereo, remote keyless entry, cruise control, premium cloth seating and various interior accents. 15-inch steel wheels are standard on the S and SV.
The SL gets 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, variable-speed windshield wipers, passenger visor vanity mirror, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, silver and chrome interior accents, a premium four-speaker stereo with MP3/WMA CD playback and iPod interface, speed-sensitive volume control and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.
Packaged options for the Versa sedan included a 4-speed automatic for the S, a Convenience Package with Bluetooth and premium stereo for the SV and a Tech Package with navigation, RearView Monitor and XM satellite radio for the SL. Individual options are available across the model range and include things such as a rear spoiler, carpeted floor and trunk mats and special body and interior accents.
The Versa hatchback comes in either S or SL trim, with power derived from a 122-hp 1.8L 4-cylinder engine in both. In the S, buyers are given the option of either a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, while Xtronic CVT is the only available transmission on the SL. The S offers a 4-speaker stereo, power mirrors, locks and windows, tilt steering, air conditioning, rear window wiper, suede/tricot cloth seating and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat.
The SL gets keyless entry, cruise control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, upgraded upholstery, special wood and aluminum inlays, a 6-speaker stereo, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.
Like all Nissans, the Versa does not skimp on safety, and in addition to six airbags, the car offers anti-lock braking with electronic brake distribution, traction control and stability control.
One Of The Most Inexpensive New Cars Available
Spacious Cabin And Trunk
Fuel Economy
Good Highway Manners
Nissan has given the Versa Sedan a few trim adjustments for 2013. A new trim level, the S Plus, is similar to the standard S sedan, but includes the cruise control package and a CVT transmission. SV models receive a couple of interior tweaks including chrome door handles, a passenger armrest and nicer upholstery on the doors. SL models get an intelligent key with remote trunk release, sun visor extenders and an immobilizer. S models now come with a trunk light and are available with an optional automatic transmission. Fuel economy is up to 40 mpg for sedans equipped with the CVT.
The Versa Hatchback is unchanged for 2013.
The 2013 Nissan Versa offers exceptional value per dollar. Few other cars in the compact segment can match it for base price. Even the top-trim SL starts at $16,590. And that price buys a lot of car, both in features and in spaciousness. Fuel economy is strong too--the CVT-equipped Versa achieves up to 35 mpg combined, according to the EPA.
