The 2016 Nissan Versa Note offers convenience, technology and versatility and succeeds in being one of the best options in its class as a passenger and cargo transporter. The 2016 Versa Note never claimed to be a powerful performance vehicle with sporty handling and in my opinion for this class of vehicle it doesn’t need to be. Instead the Versa Note focuses on fuel economy, interior versatility and comfort at an affordable entry level price.
New for the 2016 Versa Note is the inclusion of the 2015 Nissan Versa Note convenience package features at no additional charge in the SV model. Useful features such as the 5 inch display, rear view camera and divide and hide adjustable floor now come standard on the SV model.
While the more basic features like A/C, power mirrors and Bluetooth are included in the base model, you do need to go one step up to the SV to get keyless entry, power door locks, power windows, rear view camera and the divide and hide floor. These features really add to the daily convenience aspect of driving and they are features that no vehicle should be without!
While many have complained about the dull and muted driving feel of the 2016 Nissan Versa Note, it’s likely that those shopping for a sub $20k compact car probably aren’t performance enthusiasts. The 2016 Versa Note does offer a smooth and comfortable ride because of the continuously variable transmission, but with only 109 horsepower from the 1.6L four cylinder engine the Versa Note definitely lacks in the power and acceleration department.
On the flip side, the lower power gives better fuel economy than the competition. 8.6 L/100km in the city and 6.5 L/100km on the highway, which yielded a 6.8 L/100km over our 150km combined city and highway test drive.
So where exactly does the 2016 Nissan Versa Note rank within the compact car category where the likes of the Toyota Yaris, the Ford Fiesta and the Honda Fit all compete? For one, it’s the lowest priced compact car, yields the best highway mileage and offers slightly more rear leg room and cargo volume than any of the competition. Furthermore, the Nissan Versa Note has won awards for the best in class at retaining its value.
Although it’s already a manoeuvrable compact car with plenty of windows to offer great visibility, the 2016 Nissan Versa Note still provides 4 cameras to create the Around View Monitor for tight parking spots and general all round observations.
While the exterior won’t be turning too many heads, at least it displays a refined design with functionality emphasized over performance. The versatile interior is highlighted by the rear cargo divide and hide floor, allowing storage of valuables under the adjustable floor keeping them out of sight
If you’re in the market for an affordable, convenient and versatile entry level vehicle, then look no further than the 2016 Nissan Versa Note. If you want to sacrifice on the fuel economy and require performance and a more exhilarating ride, then perhaps you should look at the Honda Fit.
