While I agree that the Versa isn't particularly fun to drive, I find the interior quite spacious and flexible for humans and canines alike. Our 85-pound dog fit easily behind the rear seat, even when it wasn't folded down.
Unlike the fit, in which I don't fit, the Versa fits me just fine. When all 6-foot-2 of me is settled in behind the wheel, rear seat passengers still have genuine legroom -- quite unique in this class...
And unlike my buddy's Civic, I believe a rear facing baby seat, the most space-consuming type, will fit without forcing the passenger ahead to slide way, way forward to make room. It's certainly a lot better suited to this task than other cars in this class.
So even though it isn't an inspiring ride, passenger space is where the Nissan Versa has quite an edge on its rivals.
Dan Edmunds, Director of Vehicle Testing @ 3088 miles
priuscrusher says:
10:59 AM, 01/28/07
When I had the Kia Spectra 5, my dog also went in the back. I just pictured how squished he would get if we were to be hit from behind. I drive an suv now.
carlisimo says:
11:59 AM, 01/28/07
What's the point of a small car if it isn't small?
playdrv4me says:
01:35 PM, 01/28/07
I thought unless you drove a Mini, the point of a small car was fuel economy and price.
banhugh says:
01:47 PM, 01/28/07
and parking space availability for Europeans
actualsize says:
08:21 AM, 02/12/07
The Versa is small - if you think a last-generation Honda Civic is. I have a picture of it next to my buddie's 2003 Civic 4-door. With the front bumpers lined-up, the Honda's rear end extends about three or four inches past the Nissan's.
An '07 Civic is even bigger. At 176.7 inches, it is 7.6 inches longer than the Versa's 169.1-inch length. A Focus 5-door is 168.5.