Test Drive: 2011 Nissan Versa SL Hatchback
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VOICE OVER: Miranda Lightstone
The smallest and most economical of the bunch, the Nissan Versa has always been the money-saving option on the Nissan lot. Because of that, interior amenities and the overall look of the car has always been a bit downplayed. However, for 2011, Nissan changed that for the better. Reliable and affordable, this is a great choice for those drivers who are looking to drive a small and efficient vehicle. In this video, http://www.WatchMojo.com spends a week behind the wheel of this small, snazzy Nissan, and is pleased with the interior upgrades and the overall look of the 2011 Versa.
Design
The look of the Nissan Versa has stayed the same since it was first introduced 2006 as a 2007 model. And that’s alright because the exterior look of the Versa is actually quite nice. It’s hatch-y without being bulbous and bubble-y. The slightly squarer back end gives the illusion of more head room and a bigger trunk, which is also a bonus for a hatchback.
It’s inside that the 2011 Nissan Versa has seen the most changes. What used to be a very plain and simple layout now has a bit of spunk to it. Faux wood inserts and a nifty little touchscreen entertainment and navigation system give the Versa a touch of class it just didn’t have before. Of course, that touch of class will cost you extra, but if you’re in the market for an economical car that will cost you nothing at the pumps but still has a few amenities, then this is a great choice.
The onboard computer is extremely easy to use as well, if a little rudimentary. The graphics are almost comical on the navigation maps, but at least it does its job properly -- it even saved me from getting completely lost in the countryside in Ontario. Good little Versa.
Drive
Driving the Nissan Versa is ho-hum, but I don’t hate it. Granted, the CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) is the most annoying invention on the face of the planet and causes my eye to twitch every time I press my right foot down. There are no gear shifts so the revs build and build then level off and stay where they are -- not the most pleasant sound in the world.
However, the CVT does save you money at the pumps and also ensures you have full power (all 122 horses and 127 lb-ft of torque) at all times. The 1.8-liter engine is the ideal size for the Versa and does precisely what it’s supposed to do.
