2023 Nissan Versa Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
Slotting below the midsize Altima and compact Sentra , Nissan's smallest and most inexpensive car is the Versa. The third generation of this subcompact sedan went on sale for model year 2020, and receives a midcycle refresh for 2023.
What's New
- Updated front fascia design
- Larger 8.0-inch touchscreen now available
- Improved center console armrest
- Wireless charging pad offered
- Chambray seat upholstery option
- S Plus package available on Versa S trim
What We Think
As automakers shift their focus to high-margin SUVs, truly inexpensive small cars are becoming harder to find. Thus the Nissan Versa deserves recognition for not only existing, but remaining an entry-level option that's also reasonably appealing.
Looks go a long way in that regard, and the 2023 Versa's updated front end gives it a sharper look. Inside, too, the little Nissan looks pretty spiffy, but material quality is low and the back seat is very cramped. Features in the entry-level S trim are what could be considered the bare minimum for a 2023 car.
Aside from being slow the Versa drives just fine, returning a supple ride quality and impressive fuel economy. Overall, it seems like Nissan worked to make the Versa less of an econo-box than some of its similarly priced competition. That appeal appears to increase in the updated 2023 Versa.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Every Versa is powered by a 1.6-liter I-4 that produces 122 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the base S trim, while a CVT automatic is optional on the S and included on higher grades. All are FWD. In our testing, an automatic Versa accelerated to 60 mph in 9.7 seconds. Fuel economy should match the 2022 Versa, which was rated by the EPA at 27/35 mpg city/highway with the manual and 32/40 mpg with the automatic.
Safety Ratings and Features
The NHTSA gives the 2023 Versa a five-star overall safety rating, the highest score possible. All trims have front automatic emergency braking. Driver-assist and active safety features on higher trims include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Although the Versa offers tremendous front-row legroom, its second row is very small. However, its trunk is slightly larger than those of its subcompact sedan competitors.
Technology
A 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen is included in the Versa as standard. On the SV trim, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are added. New this year is an 8.0-inch touchscreen, found exclusively on the SR trim. The SV and SR have a 7.0-inch gauge cluster display, as well as a wireless charging pad. All trims have three USB ports.
What Is the S Plus Package?
If the entry-level Versa S is a little too basic and the next-up Versa SV is out of budget, consider the S Plus package. It's something like an in-betweener trim level, adding Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, as well as 16-inch alloy wheels instead of the standard 15-inch steel wheels, and a 60/40 split-folding second-row seat. These features are standard on the SV, but not on the S.
