2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback Review
The affordable 2012 Nissan Versa hatchback is offered in 2 trims, S and SL, and is equipped with a 1.8 liter 4-cylinder producing 122hp/127lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual is standard on the S trim and a 4-speed automatic is optional. A few of the many standard features on the base S trim includes full power accessories, 4-speaker stereo system with CD player/auxiliary audio jack and more. The SL trim comes with all of the S’s optional equipment then adds height-adjustable driver’s seat, front/rear center armrests and more. An available option package on the SL is a navigational package.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
Anyone who needs a versatile hatchback that provides a spacious interior and ample cargo space, but doesn’t want to drain their bank account in the process should strongly consider the 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback.
What’s New For 2012:
For 2012 there were only minor changes made to the standard equipment in the Nissan Versa Hatchback.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Nissan Versa Hatchback received one of the highest scores in its category, being only 1 point off the high score; the lowest score in the subcompact category received a 28. High marks were given for its spacious backseat, comfortable ride, well finished and relatively quiet cabin and easy access and smooth CVT.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
IIHS gave the Nissan Versa Hatchback a top score of Good for frontal offset tests and a second to highest score of Acceptable for side impact and roof strength tests. In government testing the NHTSA gave a rating of 4 Stars out of a possible 5 for rollover crashes and 3 Stars for frontal crashes. The Nissan Versa Hatchback is equipped with antilock brakes (including front disc/rear drum), brake assist, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags as well as traction/stability control.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Affordably priced
+ Spacious interior, especially the backseat
+ Numerous available convenience amenities
Cons
– Lacks athletic driving experience
– Fuel economy is good, but isn’t exceptional
– Quality of materials better in the redesigned sedan model
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Nissan Versa Hatchback starts out slightly higher than the Ford Fiesta Hatchback, but is slightly lower priced than the Honda Fit Hatchback. The Versa offers a 122hp engine while the Fiesta has 120 horses and the Fit is rated at 117hp. The Versa has the larger gas tank at 13.2 gallons, compared to the Fiesta’s 12.0 gallon tank and the Fit with a 10.6 gallon tank. The Versa has estimated fuel economy ratings of 26MPG city/31MPG highway and the Fiesta comes in with 29/38MPG and the Honda Fit is rated at 27/33MPG.
What Others Are Saying:
"The Versa hatchback has room for five people and plenty of cargo. There’s also a sedan version available, but I prefer the practicality of the hatchback. It’s more spacious and its tall roof translates into great headroom, especially in the rear seats, which are surprisingly spacious." – The Globe and Mail
"In basic sedan form, it’s pretty Spartan, but the up-level sedan and hatchback models not only offer all you really need in the way of comfort, performance, and safety, they can be had with nearly all of the convenience options that were restricted to the luxury class not too long ago." – The Auto Channel
Read more about the 2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback, at the Nissan manufacturer site.
