With a level of affordability matched only by its high volume of style, the 2012 Nissan Versa is the latest step in the evolution of the wildly popular compact sedan. Nissan has always marketed the Versa on its value, and the 2012 model adds even more value to one of the least expensive cars in America. And, with three distinct trim levels to choose from, there's definitely something for everyone.
Spaciousness and value are two of the Versa's biggest selling points and, although the 2012 Versa's body remains very familiar, Nissan has shifted it backwards, with the front overhang reduced and almost 3 inches of body added behind the car's back wheels—an adjustment that yields added storage space in a trunk large enough to store a bicycle. Inside, as the cleverly quirky commercials demonstrate, there's headroom and legroom to spare, so don't be shy about donning your highest heels and tallest hats. In fact, with 39.8 inches of headroom, the Versa offers the most headroom per dollar of any car in America.
You'd never guess it, but even with all that space for limbs and luggage, the 2012 Versa is actually slightly smaller than the 2011 version, and it has lost 150 pounds of weight through a more compact engine and lighter seats. In these austere times, this kind of design innovation helps squeeze a few extra miles per gallon.
Not that the Versa really needs any help when it comes to fuel economy. As the first Nissan vehicle to sport the carmaker's PUREDRIVE initiative badge, the 2012 Versa is equipped with a dual injector system and an available Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) that equal lower CO2 emissions that exceed US 2016 CAFÉ standards and an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the open road—better than a Honda Fit.
Driving the 2012 Nissan Versa is also a rewarding experience. The windows are large, giving good all-round visibility, and the rear doors are also a good size, making all that rear legroom nicely accessible, even when the front seats are pushed back.
There are three trims available for the 2012 Nissan Versa - the S, SV, and SL. The base S model contains a nice selection of desirable features, including halogen headlights, rear window defroster, air conditioning, and a two-speaker stereo sound system complete with an auxiliary audio input jack. The SV steps things up a notch with chrome door handles and highlights, an upgraded electroluminescent gauge cluster, two rear speakers, and remote keyless entry.
The SL trim completes the triumvirate of compact Versa fun with extra audio options, including MP3 playback compatibility, an iPod interface system, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, as well as a Bluetooth hands-free phone system, 60/40 split fold-down rear seats, and front fog lights. With unique package add-ons available for each trim level, you can further customize your Versa to your heart's content.
It says a lot that the 2012 Nissan Versa's trims are mostly differentiated by the audio options. The base S option already crams in most of the features that drivers could want for a cost-effective compact car for everyday journeys. The extras are available if you want them, but with excellent fuel economy, great handling, and decent power from the 1.6 liter engine (putting out 106 horsepower), the Versa is worth a look at any price point.
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