Faults:
1) Tire Pressure Monitor light came on at 2300 miles when all tires were properly inflated. Nissan refused to run the car through their computer because they still insist that I had low pressure on the tires without bothering to check that fact. May I add that I have the Nissan Gold Maintenance Program and I should not have to argue with the dealership to have the car checked out.
2) Windshield wipers started to "chatter" after the 2nd time they were used. Five towns Nissan also ignored this when I came in to have the car maintained.
3) The car refused to start 3-5 times at around 3,500 miles. There was something wrong with the key and it had to be reprogrammed.
4) An old lady hit the car while it was parked and the whole front bumper had to be replaced. Parts are still rare as it is a new model.
General Comments:
I was one of the first persons to get ahold of the new Versa last August 2006. The car was a nightmare at first with regards to its blind spots, but that was quickly remedied by adjusting the mirrors a little closer to the car's body. Handling is heavy for such a small car, body roll is high because of its height. The car does very well in medium speeds, but crank it up to 70+ and it grumbles, but does the job anyway. I have not been getting the advertised mpg on the car, but I do jackrabbit starts and I speed all the time. A full tank lasts me 10 days if I drive 32 miles per day.
The Versa's interior totally balances out its odd exterior. It comes standard with suede seats, audio system, front/side/passenger airbags, and digital odometer. It's very roomy and the seats are very comfortable for long drives. The only problem I have with the driver's seat is that it is situated too low and short drivers (such as myself) will have a hard time seeing the front hood. This is especially cumbersome when you are trying to parallel park. Putting a throw pillow/seat cushion on the seat will give an extra boost. Aside from that, the Versa has a lot of nooks and crannies which can hold a lot of stuff. Compartments are spacey and you will never complain about running out of room. The backseat can easily fit 3 adults. You can even stuff a fourth one if need be.
The "trunk" can hold 2 large suitcases and a lot of knick-knacks. I personally have a stash of emergency driving kits, wetsuits, a large trash bag containing toys, a beach umbrella, and assorted books in there and I still have plenty of room.
Overall, it is a great car for the price. Just don't expect to be racing it anytime soon. It's quick, but not as quick as the Honda Fit or Scion XB.
29th Feb 2016, 01:40
I took one as a rental. I found the autobox very annoying as it downshifts crazy slow. It is just a white appliance to drive.