2012 Nissan Versa Sedan: The High Time Improving Fuel Economy

January 14, 2012 By: autocar Category: first drive, Nissan car, Safety car

2012 Nissan Versa Sedan details

Automakers have begun pouring vast resources into the smaller subcompact segment, and the result has been a wealth of all-new models. The SL is nearly $5,000 more expensive than the base Versa, and all that extra money buys you many of the features new car buyers have grown to expect. We’re talking standard features like keyless entry, upgraded cloth seats and a four-speaker sound system.

2012 Nissan Versa Sedan Features

Among the (once) high-end features that come with SL trim are Bluetooth hands-free phone integration, an iPod interface, upgraded audio system and easy-to-operate steering wheel-mounted controls. The SL also includes a continuously variable transmission in place of the standard five-speed manual, cruise control and power windows and locks. Safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control and a full complement of front, side and side curtain airbags.

2012 Nissan Versa Sedan Compare

The Chevrolet Sonic, Hyundai Accent and Ford Fiesta are all-new or updated and vastly superior to prior subcompacts that still linger in our memories like an unpleasant aftertaste. The compact car market is white-hot. The new Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra have lifted the segment to new levels of refinement while at the same time improving fuel economy to 40 miles per gallon on the highway and beyond. Instead of turning their attention back to trucks and SUVs, manufacturers are going even smaller.

2012 Nissan Versa Sedan Price

With a $15,560 price tag, we didn’t expect much in the way of accoutrements, but it doesn’t cost much extra to bend metal. The exterior of the Versa sedan is all-new for 2012, with more curves just about everywhere. The SL trim level adds chrome accents on the grille and door handles for a touch of class to go along with seven-spoke 15-inch aluminum wheels.