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:

FM/AM/SAT radio with CD/DVD player (if so equipped)
1. CD eject button. 2. VOL/ON·OFF control knob. 3. Station select (1 - 6) buttons. 4. TUNE/FOLDER and AUDIO control knob (Bass, Treble, Fade and Balance). 5. DISC·AUX button. 6. TRACK butto ...

Engine compartment
Never use a fuse of a higher or lower amperage rating than that specified on the fuse box cover. This could damage the electrical system or cause a fire. If any electrical equipment does ...

INTERIOR
No luxury has been overlooked within this premium passenger compartment. Leather seating is standard and the backseat is certainly more spacious than any other convertible coupe on the market, ske ...