Simple, practical, and affordable. These are the most common boxes savvy buyers are looking to check and the 2021 Nissan Versa subcompact sedan ticks them all with high scores. Going beyond the basics, the 2021 Nissan Versa offers comfortable seating, a smooth ride and a generous suite of available safety tech features. All of this is packed into a clean and modern exterior design and comfortable and tranquil interior cabin space.
The entry level S model is priced at $16,000 with a manual transmission as the only option. Opting for the higher SV, or SR trim includes more desirable features like Android Auto and Apple Carplay support, adaptive cruise control and heated front seats. The highest SR trim is priced at $19,340 and will include larger 17” rims, a leather wrapped steering wheel, LED headlights, keyless entry and remote start. A separate Convenience package available as an upgrade comes with adaptive cruise control and heated front seats.
All three trims (S, SV and SR) receive a four-cylinder engine producing a mere 122-horsepower and 114 lb.ft of torque in a front-wheel drive configuration. Base S trims receive a 5-speed manual transmission while the higher SV and SR get a more favorable CVT transmission. While the Versa doesn’t pack a huge punch off the straight line, it benefits from exceptional fuel economy with EPA estimated ratings of 32 and 40 mpg on the city and highway combined for trims equipped with the more fuel efficient CVT transmission.
What used to be dull and boring is no longer the case, and considering the bargain price point, the 2021 Versa’s interior is well dressed, with soft materials and aesthetically pleasing design with black tones and red stitching highlights. The highest SR trim receives additional luxury features including a leather wrapped steering wheel and gear shifter.
Rear seats fit two full size adults comfortably but three may be a tight squeeze. Still, the 60/40 folding rear seats conveniently adds additional cargo space when needed for versatility and practicality. Dual climate controls are also available depending on trim.
All trims receive a 7” infotainment touchscreen, and while smaller in size compared to some of the competition, it’s compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. Navigating the touchscreen is intuitive and easy to understand, getting the job done with quick and easy menu switching and decent voice-command capabilities.
With only 122 horsepower available at the front wheels, the 2021 Nissan Versa doesn’t quite deliver much of a thrill for spirited drivers. However, the very different target market is instead looking for an entry level, go-around, get-around city zipper with plenty of cargo space and excellent fuel economy. That said, lane switching, and highway merging takes a bit of pre-planning, but the CVT transmission (on the SR trim under test) and four-cylinder engine responds quickly to throttle input. During hard accelerations, the interior cabin space could use a bit more insulation to isolate the road and engine noise.
All considered, the 2021 Nissan Versa does a great job of providing a comfy interior and smooth driving experience. The middle SV trim can be had for $18,740, but the upgrade to the SR trim benefits from a better interior with added convenience features, for just $600 more.
