Versa in the Market

Extreme bargains are scarce these days, and Nissan deserves credit for keeping the Versa wallet-friendly. But the new Accent, Fit and Fiesta are cars you actually want to own — brand emissaries that leave a good enough impression for first-time buyers to stay in the family when it's time to buy the next car. If the new Versa is anyone's first Nissan, it imparts a brand that's big on value and practicality but short on drivability and perceived quality — far from Nissan's reality, but the Versa's flavor all the same.

Among entry-level cars, value is crucial. But, increasingly, so is overall appeal. Nissan hit a bulls-eye with one of those. I just wish it had hit the board at all with the other.

    See also:

    Seats
    Seats - Do not ride in a moving vehicle when the seatback is reclined. This can be dangerous. The shoulder belt will not be against your body. In an accident, you could be thrown into it ...

    Sonar system (if so equipped)
    - The sonar system is a convenience but it is not a substitute for proper parking. Always look around and check that it is safe to do so before parking. Always move slowly. - Read and u ...

    Locking with key
    The power door lock system allows you to lock or unlock all doors at the same time. Turning the key toward the front 1 of the vehicle locks all doors. Turning the key one time toward the rear 2 ...