Even if you love your big honkin’ SUV, those twice-a-week $100 fill-ups may have you thinking of downsizing. If that’s the case, allow us to suggest the remarkably practical 2008 Nissan Versa.
The front-wheel-drive Versa is offered in two trim levels, including the entry-level “S” and the well-equipped “SL”. While Nissan offers a Versa sedan, we think it’s the utilitarian four-door hatchback body style that has the most to offer those looking for a more fuel-efficient SUV alternative.
No matter which Versa you choose, you’ll find it powered by a 122-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine mated to one of three transmissions: a six-speed manual, a four-speed automatic, or a continuously-variable automatic (CVT). Take one for a spin and you’ll discover this engine provides ample power for daily driving. The six-speed manual injects a bit of fun, whereas you’ll want the CVT if you’re trying to maximize fuel economy.
Where the sub-$13,000 S model’s interior features lots of hard plastics, the SL version’s higher-quality materials give it a much more upscale look. Both front- and rear-seat passengers have plenty of room, and 60/40-split rear seatbacks can be folded down to reveal a surprisingly large cargo area.
While it might be difficult to see downsizing as a positive, we feel confident in saying the Versa should make the process as painless as possible.
Strengths:
Handling quite good for the class
Roomy, comfortable interior
Four-door hatchback offers unexpected utility
Weaknesses:
Not quite as fuel-efficient as some competitors
Styling may not be to everyone’s liking
Antilock brakes really should be standard
Bottom Line:
This is a small, fuel-efficient car you don’t have to feel like you’re settling for.
Front foglights
Power sunroof
Keyless starting
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Bluetooth hands-free cell phone connectivity
Steering wheel audio controls
Satellite radio
Safety features
/*Antilock Brakes:*/|Optional|/*Brake Assist:*/|Optional|/*Electronic Stability Control:*/|Not available|/*Traction Control:*/|Not available|/*Multistage Front Airbags:*/|Standard|/*Side-Impact Airbags:*/|Standard|/*Side-Curtain Airbags:*/|Standard|/*Active Front Head Restraints:*/|Standard|/*Height Adjustable Shoulder Belts:*/|Standard| /*Safety Belt Pretensioners:*/|Standard| /*Center Rear Shoulder Belt:*/|Standard| /*Childproof Rear Door Locks:*/|Standard|/*Daytime Running Lights:*/|Not available| /*Tire Pressure Monitor:*/|Standard
Standard features
/*1.8 S:*/
1.8-liter four-cylinder engine
Six-speed manual transmission
15-inch steel wheels with wheelcovers
Variable-intermittent windshield wipers
Power-adjustable outside mirrors
Rear window wiper/washer
Rear window defroster
Cloth upholstery
60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks (Hatchback)
Tilt-adjustable steering column
AM/FM/CD stereo with 4 speakers
/*1.8 SL adds:*/
Continuously-variable automatic transmission (Hatchback)
Four-speed automatic transmission (Sedan)
15-inch alloy wheels
Air conditioning
Height-adjustable driver’s seat
60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks (Sedan)
Rear center armrest
Keyless entry
Cruise control
Power windows
Power door locks
Premium audio system with 6 speakers
Six-disc CD changer
Auxiliary audio input jack
Warranty
/*Bumper-to-bumper:*/|3 years/36,000 miles|/*Powertrain:*/|5 years/60,000 miles|/*Corrosion:*/|5 years/Unlimited miles|/*Roadside Assistance:*/Not available
