2012 Nissan Versa: Up Close

Nissan’s redesigned Versa subcompact sedan isn’t a particularly alluring car, but that bland exterior hides an impressively large cabin.

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Nissan Americas Chairman Carlos Tavares said the Versa’s styling provides a “sophisticated, upscale feeling,” but the design has an anonymity that looks ready to blend into the crowd like a Toyota Yaris. There’s hope for the enthusiast buyer, though, as Nissan says the next-generation Sentra compact car, which is coming soon, will cater to them.

The distinction between the two will be important because the new Versa is nearly as large as the current Sentra. This results in a Versa cabin that’s roomier than you’d think, especially in back. I checked out the backseat and had legroom to spare. Amazing. Interior materials quality, meanwhile, is basic, reflecting the car’s low base price of $10,990.

Design has become a differentiating factor in the subcompact segment with models like the Ford Fiesta entering the fray, but if you’re looking for an efficient, roomy low-cost new car — and not much more — the Versa is for you.