Are you in the market for a new car? The 2021 Nissan Versa Note should definitely be on your list. After all, the U.S. News & World Report ranked this vehicle number two in the subcompact car because of it’s appealing interior, vast trunk space and smooth handling. The competitive pricing for the Nissan Versa Note makes it affordable for nearly anyone searching for a brand new car. Believe it or not, the Note has the refinement and attractiveness to compete with other models in its class like the Hyundai Accent.
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However, whenever you are purchasing a new car it's important to do your due diligence and learn as much as you can about the vehicle.
Is The 2021 Nissan Versa Note A Good Car?
According to automotive experts the Nissan Versa Note is a well-built subcompact sedan. Which is no surprise since the Nissan brand has been synonymous with quality for several years. This model was originally introduced in 1995 under the nameplate Almere. According to a press release published in 2008, the name Versa derived from the term “versatile space’. The automaker used this slogan to boast the vehicle’s spacious interior. The Versa is the least expensive and smallest sedan in Nissan’s lineup.
Perhaps the biggest selling points for the 2021 Nissan Note is its roomy interior and its great fuel economy. It’s extremely low base price makes it an ideal choice for buyers who are on a tight budget. It has a four star rating out of five in the reliability department and ranks 11 out of 21 on the subcompact sedan list. You won’t find a brand new vehicle with this price point with these selling points.
How Much Does The Nissan Versa Cost?
Speaking of the price, the base model starts at $16, 272. If you purchase the model with a manual transmission you can expect to pay less than $16,000. In the last year and half, so many people have been financially impacted by the pandemic. In an effort to cut back on spending, most people are turning to pre-owned cars since they are significantly cheaper to own than a brand new vehicle. Yet the Nissan Versa’s low price point has made it possible for people to be able to afford to own a new car.
While the Nissan Versa might not be the fastest or the most luxurious sedan on the market it’s certainly geared to budget conscious consumers who desire the new car smell with a “used car” budget. The brand new 2021 Nissan Versa also comes with a $500 rebate. It doesn’t get any better than that!
Nissan Versa Trims
The Nissan Versa has three classic trim levels; S, SV and the SR. The SV starts at about $17,740 while the SR which is the highest trim offering is $18,340. If you simply need a vehicle that gets you to and from your destination with basic connectivity then you’ll be fine with the Nissan Versa S.
For the driver who needs increased functionality with added tech and interior features then you’ll need to
choose between the SV and the SR. There is only a $2,068 price difference between the S and the SR trim.
Long- Term Costs
While the cost of maintaining a vehicle depending on the make, model and the area, the maintenance costs for the 2021 Nissan Versa won’t break your pockets. Annually maintenance costs are estimated at about $45.
What’s New In The Latest Nissan Versa Model?
Are there any real differences between the 2020 and the 2021 Nissan Versa? Last year, the 2020 Nissan Versa underwent a major model redesign. Unsurprisingly there aren’t any real changes in this year’s new subcompact sedan. However, the base price did go up an extra hundred bucks.
Experts have noted that the handling quality has improved from the previous model. There was consistent brake pedal feedback and the steering was
was accurate.
Some of the major changes made to the Nissan Versa over the last five years include:
- In 2018 the four-speed transmission was dropped from the model and a more efficient powertrain was added.
- In 2019 the automaker included Apple CarPlay and Android auto integration.
- In 2020 the Versa was given a totally new look with an interior and exterior redesign, a bump in horsepower and a host of other infotainment features.
Which Model Should You Purchase?
If you need a vehicle with some bells and whistles the top the line Nissan Versa SR is the ideal choice. Although it’s the more expensive option it’s still quite affordable and cheaper than any of the Versa’s competitors. The SR and the SV are equipped with an advanced infotainment system and the SV has remote start and LED headlights.
2021 Nissan Versa Engine and Transmission Performance
It’s important to remember that the Nissan Versa was designed to be an economical vehicle so when it comes to its engine and torque power consumers should tame their expectations. The new Versa is equipped with a 122 horsepower four-cylinder engine with 114 pound-feet of torque. According to the manufacturer, it can go out to 115mph. Several critics say that the 2021 Nissan Versa is capable of providing sufficient power for everyday driving but doesn’t have enough muscle to establish any real authority on the road. You’ll need
to throttle the gas pedal push out any real engine power.
Several owners and experts who have test driven the vehicle found that it takes longer for the Versa to pull off from a stop light and doesn’t pack enough power for high-way passing situations.
Nissan Versa Transmission
Most of the base models are equipped with a manual transmission while the SR and the SV have automatic transmissions. The S is available with a CVT transmission. The continuously variable transmission is great at eliminating coarse noises that come with actual gear changes. The CVT performs effortlessly and seamlessly. The powertrain is average for a 2,700 pound car.
Handling and Fuel Economy
When it comes to its fuel efficiency Nissan has it down packed . The 2021 Versa has an estimated EPA of 32mpg for city driving and an additional 8mpg for highway driving. The base model with its manual transmission gets even better fuel economy with about 27mpg for local city driving and 35mpg on the highway.
The handling quality is actually good with this subcompact sedan. The Versa isolates road imperfections which means you don’t have to worry about feeling all the bumps and grooves in the road. Consumers can expect a smooth handling experience.
2021 Nissan Versa Cargo and Interior
No doubt when you are searching for a quality vehicle you should consider the interior and cargo space. Nissan prides itself on offering roomy interiors especially in this specific model. Unlike previous models in this lineup the interior doesn’t feel or look like a child’s play area. Instead the automaker has upgraded the interior materials and makes use of soft to touch surfaces which is becoming increasingly popular.
The S level trim isn’t designed with power adjustable seats or leather interiors. You can expect the very basics from a S trim model. You’ll have to upgrade to the SR for basic desirable features such as the mounted armrest in the driver’s seat. However, the SV will offer climate congrats seating and leather upholstery.The backseat can easily and comfortably accommodate two adults but there’s definitely less legroom than the 2020 Nissan Versa. The vehicle can seat five people in total.
The S trim has 14.7 cubic feet of trunk space while the SR and the SV has 15 cubic feet of space. The cubbies built into the center console provide extra storage space while the trunk can be deeper than any compact car in this class. If you need extra cargo space you can always fold the back seats back for more space.
What About The Versa Infotainment System?
The 2021 Nissan Versa features a basic seven inch infotainment system. If you want to be able to listen to your favorite jams with Apple CarPlay or Android integration you’ll have to upgrade to the SV or SR trim. The mid and high level trim models are also equipped with voice command and SiriusXM satellite radio. All Versa’s have three USB ports which you can use to charge your car.
All of the infotainment centers uses Bluetooth connectivity which makes it easy to hook up
cellphone. However, critics have noticed a lag in the responsiveness of the touchscreen and the voice recognition often needs troubleshooting.
2021 Nissan Versa Safety Features
Safety is everything, especially if you are planning on toting around your little ones in the 2021 Nissan Versa. The standard safety features on the Versa include:
- Forward collision warning
- Rear view camera
- Lane departure warning
- Automatic high beams headlights
- Reverse automatic braking
The following safety features are available on higher trim levels:
- Blind spot detection
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Driver attention monitor
- Adaptive Cruise Control
The 2021 Nissan Versa has yet to be crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration. It has yet to be evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety so it hasn't been named as a top safety pick.
How Does The Versa Measure Up Against The Competitors?
Is the Nissan Versa worth it when compared to similar vehicles in its class? Let’s see.
2021 Nissan Versa Vs. Nissan Sentra
Designed by the same manufacturer, the Nissan Sentra is also a subcompact sedan. Compared to the Versa, the Sentra is significantly less roomier and costs a few thousand dollars more than the Nissan Versa latest base model. Both of these vehicles suffer from the same problem; lack of headroom. Therefore, when it comes to the Sentra and Versa it’s a matter of preference. However, the Versa costs slightly less money than the Sentra.
2021 Nissan Versa Vs. Chevy Spark
The Chevy Spark is another affordable subcompact car that actually beats the Versa when it comes to pricing since it’s nearly $1500 cheaper than the Nissan Versa. Compared to the Chevy Spark the Versa is designed with nicer interior materials and has roomier passenger space. Nissan’s base model is equipped with more safety features than the Chevy Spark. The Nissan Versa wins again.
Warranty Coverage
When you purchase the 2021 Nissan Versa brand new you’ll get a limited warranty. Nissan’s powertrain and limited warranty doesn’t compare to the warranty offered by Hyundai and Kia who offer their customers extensive protection plans. Here is an outline of the Nissan Versa’s warranty:
- The limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- The powertrain warranty covers 60,000 miles or five years
- Nissam doesn't offer any complimentary scheduled maintenance.
The Bottom Line – Is The 2021 Nissan Versa A Good Buy?
So should you purchase the 2021 Nissan Versa? Is it a good buy for your money? When it comes to dynamic engine performance you shouldn't expect much from this vehicle. The Nissan Versa prioritizes fuel economy and cabin space so its offerings are very basic in most areas. If you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle.daily commutes and won’t break the bank, the 2021 Nissan Versa is a great option.
Common Questions
Q: Is the Nissan Versa reliable?
The 2021 Nissan Versa has a great reliability rating of 4 out of 5.
Q: How many miles does the Nissan Versa last?
As long as you stick to a regular maintenance schedule can last for several years to come. You can easily get up to 300,000 miles on your Nissan.
Q: Do Nissans have bad transmissions?
Nissan CVT issues are common. The most common problems with Nissan transmissions are loss of power, jerking, and shuddering. The CVT sometimes experiences coolant hose leaks and failure.
Q: What is the worst Nissan Versa model?
The worst Nissan Versa model is the 2009 Nissan Versa which had well over 700 complaints and 150 reported problems. Nearly a third of the problems reported for this model were related to the suspension system. It