The Nissan Versa is traditionally a low-cost, high-value option for car shoppers. It was redesigned for the 2020 model year. The 2021 model does not break the mold and is a carryover from the previous year, continuing to offer a competitive equipment and tech lineup along with attractive interior and exterior design.
The 2021 Nissan Versa starts at $14,930. The base grade Versa S comes standard with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired with a five-speed manual transmission. It’s one of the few vehicles remaining that offers the manual as an option for buyers.
The Versa is an attractive enough model that is perfectly serviceable as a daily driver.Photo courtesy of Nissan North America
Opting for a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the Vera bumps the price of the Versa S up to $16,600. All other Versa models come with that same powertrain, w which achieves 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. Versa models with the CVT achieve 32 mpg in the city, 40 mpg on the highway, and 35 mpg combined. No hybrid version of the model is sold.
The next level higher Versa SV has a $17,740 starting price tag.
Nissan has saved its sportiest Versa model for last, giving the top-tier grade the Versa SR designation. Nissan traditionally uses SR to designate this sporty daily drivers throughout its lineup, as seen in the Maxima and Sentra. Buyers who get the 2021 Versa SR receive a model riding on 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, LED headlights, fog lights, and more. Additionally, buyers can choose the SR Convenience Package, which adds heated front seats, automatic climate control, and adaptive cruise control. The Versa SR starts at $18,340.
All models have Nissan’s signature V-motion grille, boomerang-shaped headlights, and floating roof. The interior of the models offer best-in-class front legroom, a D-shaped steering wheel, and a 7.0-inch infotainment touch screen. Keyless entry and push-button start are standard. Each Versa has a 60/40 split-folding rear seat.
The interior of the 2021 Nissan Versa features materials that are a big step up from the previous generation’s appointments.Photo courtesy of Nissan North America
Buyers who opt for the Versa SV or SR get Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard equipment. The suite of safety and driver assist technology includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, lane departure warning, high beam assist, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic alert. A driver alertness monitor and adaptive cruise control are available.
Each Versa carries a $925 destination and delivery charge.
