Adding pleasure to any drive in the Versa is the outstanding visibility afforded all occupants thanks to the vehicle's large sheets of glass. Unfortunately, the visual vibes aren't 360 in nature due to a wide rear C-pillar. This visual intrusion really only presents itself when parking.
Road and wind noises--the bane of economy cars--are effectively suppressed, adding to the delight of watching the miles pass by in this frugal operator. A 0.31 coefficient of drag contributes to the serenity, which is uncommon in the class of automobile.
Ride quality is a Versa strength
The Versa treats its occupants to a ride quality that again draws into question its economy car existence. Most econo-boxes subject us to firm, often "thumpy" rides, but not so here. The Versa remains solid and composed over road decay typical of poorly-maintained urban streets. And it does so without the intrusion of suspension thump.
Nimble and secure best describe the Versa's handling capability. No, this isn't a hot performer in the corners but guess what, I wouldn't trade an ounce of ride quality for a pound of handling improvement. In this sort of vehicle, Nissan got it right when it comes to balancing real world comfort with on-road athletics.
Standard content and safety commendable
Even in its basic form, the Versa is reasonably well-equipped with comfort and convenience features. Standard occupant protection includes front airbags and seat-mounted side airbags. Side-curtain airbags for the protection of all outboard heads is also available.
Despite the standard front and side airbags, there's room for improvement. I was surprised not to find a head restraint for the center rear seating position. This exposes an occupant seated there to a much higher risk of whiplash in the event of a rear impact.
Plus, the inclusion of anti-lock brakes as standard equipment in the base model rather than supplied as part of a $500 package would simply be the "right" thing to do. Also of concern is the absence of a vehicle stability system across the board.
Of course, the argument to be made is that some customers are "all about price," and they simply prefer a lower MSRP to safety enhancements. Frankly, I don't think they should get the choice.
2008 Versa wrap
Overall, I was most impressed with this prudent penny-pinching hatchback. It delivers outstanding operational refinement for the price, along with agreeable fuel economy and abundant room for passengers and cargo in spite of its compact size.
photo:Rob Rothwell
Road and wind noises--the bane of economy cars--are effectively suppressed, adding to the delight of watching the miles pass by in this frugal operator. A 0.31 coefficient of drag contributes to the serenity, which is uncommon in the class of automobile.
Ride quality is a Versa strength
The Versa treats its occupants to a ride quality that again draws into question its economy car existence. Most econo-boxes subject us to firm, often "thumpy" rides, but not so here. The Versa remains solid and composed over road decay typical of poorly-maintained urban streets. And it does so without the intrusion of suspension thump.
Nimble and secure best describe the Versa's handling capability. No, this isn't a hot performer in the corners but guess what, I wouldn't trade an ounce of ride quality for a pound of handling improvement. In this sort of vehicle, Nissan got it right when it comes to balancing real world comfort with on-road athletics.
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| The Versa treats its occupants to a ride quality that again draws into question its economy car existence. |
Standard content and safety commendable
Even in its basic form, the Versa is reasonably well-equipped with comfort and convenience features. Standard occupant protection includes front airbags and seat-mounted side airbags. Side-curtain airbags for the protection of all outboard heads is also available.
Despite the standard front and side airbags, there's room for improvement. I was surprised not to find a head restraint for the center rear seating position. This exposes an occupant seated there to a much higher risk of whiplash in the event of a rear impact.
Plus, the inclusion of anti-lock brakes as standard equipment in the base model rather than supplied as part of a $500 package would simply be the "right" thing to do. Also of concern is the absence of a vehicle stability system across the board.
Of course, the argument to be made is that some customers are "all about price," and they simply prefer a lower MSRP to safety enhancements. Frankly, I don't think they should get the choice.
2008 Versa wrap
Overall, I was most impressed with this prudent penny-pinching hatchback. It delivers outstanding operational refinement for the price, along with agreeable fuel economy and abundant room for passengers and cargo in spite of its compact size.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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