2012 Nissan Versa review

The 2012 Nissan Versa sedan is about as compelling as an old dishwasher, but its fuel efficiency, roominess and unrivaled value will get a lot of shoppers to overlook that.

Economy cars boast sharper looks and more features than ever, but they're inching up in price — frustrating anyone who wants cheap wheels above all else. There's still hope: Redesigned for 2012, the Versa sedan starts at $10,990, making it the least-expensive 2012 model in the U.S. For around $14,500, it's the least expensive car with an automatic transmission, air conditioning and power windows. If a low car payment matters most, mark your calendar. The Versa goes on sale in August.

The sedan comes in S, SV and SL trims. All but the S have an automatic transmission. At a media preview, I tested the SV and SL. The Versa hatchback carries over from the previous generation for 2012, with a redesign on the way. This review covers the sedan, but if you want to learn more about the hatchback, our 2011 Versa overview gives a closer look.

See also:

Master warning light
When the ignition is in the ON position, the master warning light illuminates if any of the following are displayed on the vehicle information display. ● No key warning ● Low fuel w ...

Heater operation
Heating This mode is used to direct heated air to the foot outlets. Some air also flows from the defrost outlets and the side vent outlets. 1. Press the button to the OFF position for normal h ...

Cancel switch
When the switch, located inside the glove box, is in the OFF position, the power to the trunk lid will be cancelled. The trunk can only be opened with the master key or keyfob. The trunk lid can ...