my fiance and I are looking to buy the versa, but i cant find one with the standard 4spd auto. If we can find a 1.8s with the auto and power options, it comes to about $2k less than the SL model. We are going to drive one with the CVT and see what we think, but Im concerned with its long term durability.

The SL package is awfully tempting though.... we are going from a loaded altima, to the Versa.

I have an '07 SL Versa with the CVT and have no complaints. I'm old school when it comes to transmissions and had to get use to the CVT as it sounds like a transmission that is slipping when in actually it's not. As far as durability, if I'm not mistaken the CVT is in the Murano and haven't heard of any problems from them.

The dealer I bought my SL from told me that Nissan may be putting the CVT into the base model also. Nissan may be shifting (pun intended) from the original idea of putting the 4 speed auto into the Versa. As to reliability, the CVT has fewer moving parts, and is being used to back up the 3.5 liter in the Maxima and Murano. I'm guessing it will last that much longer in the Versa considering it won't see nearly as much torque, load or horsepower.

Exactly. It's been available as an option on the Murano for a few years now, and has just been made the only transmission option for the Maxima for '07. If it can take the VQ's torque, it's more than competent for the Versa.