How is Versa to you after driven it? How do you FEEL?

[Ever Victorious]

Thin air would make it worse, though, not better.

You get less air, thus you also shoot less fuel into your engine. Car (at least IMO) should be slower, more sluggish, but more efficient. I've never lived that high up, so I couldn't tell you for sure. Alls I know is that Turbos run much better at high altitude than N/A.

[Link3]

Well, I've had my Versa SL with CVT for about 2 1/2 weeks now and have about 1,200 miles on it already.

To get decent gas mileage I'd have to agree that it takes getting a little use to how to work the CVT. That said, I've been getting about 28.5 mpg (mostly City) and about 32.5 mpg (mostly highway) so I consider that pretty decent. I have never been able to achieve the EPA MPG estimates on any vehicle that I've driven.

I find the overall ride quite comfortable. It is not a super soft ride (I can still most definitely feel the road), but I like it like that. The ride is smoother than with a SUV or a sports car, and I think that the Continental OE tires are a pretty good choice for this size/type of vehicle. The driver's seat is quite comfortable for at least a 3 hour drive, and other adults are almost amazed with how much passendger space there is front & back. The gauges are conservatively located and easy to read, but I do like the placement of the ones in the Scion Xa and Honda Fit more (just personal preference)

The materials inside and out seem to be of fairly high quality for this level of vehicle, and the build quality seems pretty high (doors shut with a solid feel). I'm enjoying the stereo with the powered subwoofer and the sunroof options a lot.

Overall, very satisfied and happy with the choice.

[Ever Victorious]

Which brings up a couple RSM's...

With regard to how solid the car is, yes.. it's VERY solid. I could name a number of cars that I've seen where after a front/rear collision, the doors did not open or close correctly or make a good seal. My V's doors still opened and closed like new, no sqeaking or rubbing, and still with the good solid feel.

And the Continental OE's are OK tires, but if you think the ride is nice now... well, wait till we start replacing tires. I bet you that it will be a whole different beast. I would much prefer that Nissan put Michelin Energy's on the car, but they're a bit more costly (and also the best OE tire I've ever seen).

PS - RSM = Random Synaptic Misfire, (TM) Ever Victorious

[Caddy65]

I bought my Versa (S model 4AT) about 6 weeks ago. I researched the Yaris, Corolla, Sentra, Focus, and the Aveo. Then I saw a commercial for the Versa. It drove better and looked better than all the above (for the same priced models). After owning my Versa I do have a few complaints: 1. The cup holders are inconveniently located. The 2 in the front are a far reach, and the two in the back are located behind my elbow. It's hard to grab my cup of coffee without taking my eyes off the road. I am average height (5'9") and I have to lean way forward to grab my coffee cup on my commute.2. No standard cruise control.3. No arm rest on the right side. 4. The interior dome light is the same as the one in my 84 Monte Carlo. I think it's kinda tacky and outdated, but it works.Numbers 2 and 3 could have been purchased on a more expensive model, But I really wanted to keep the out-the-door price under $15,000. I didn't want to spend $17,000 for an economy car.That being said, I think everything else is great. Just a few minor things Nissan might fix. I would still rate this as the best economy car on the road, althought the gas mileage isn't as good as I was expecting. (I am getting 30 mpg average on a commute that is 95% highway). It might get better as the engine gets broken in.
Modified by Caddy65 at 11:25 AM 10/17/2006

[OKVersa]

I agree about the cupholders. That car is so roomy, Nissan could have done a better job. The gearshift in an automatic can go anywhere. Hubby pointed out that with the CVT (which we have) you could have push-buttons on the dash!

If they are selling it as a comfort compact, let's make it a comfort compact. It wouldn't surprise me if the 2008 models have more perks.

There could be map pockets behind the front two seats and there is no reason for the door pockets to be so small.

[Ever Victorious]

There could be map pockets behind the front two seats and there is no reason for the door pockets to be so small.

Height wise they could make them bigger, but that might make the bottle holders in the fronts of the doors useless (which, btw, they work quite well for 20-oz size bottles). Width wise, they can't be any bigger because they already come within about 3/8" of touching the seats with the doors closed.

I am kinda curious as to why they didn't make map pockets on the backs of the front seats. Even my Kias have had that... it's not hard or expensive to make, and it makes people happy.

I must have awkwardly long arms. Neither the gearshift placement nor the cupholder placement bother me in the least. It's actually a little nice to have them clear to the front so that my arm does't bang on the armrest when reaching for my drink like it does in the Tucson.

[FlightNurse]

I have to laugh, the Versa is not being marketed at a Economy car, so the price of 17K goes back to, you pay for what you get !!

The VErsa is being market as a roomy 5 door car that feels MUCH better then a entry level car..

Tony

[Caddy65]

Which is why i ultimately bought it. They say the Yaris is more inexpensive, but if you add on the same options as the Versa, it actually costs more. Also, Toyota dealerships don't do much negotiating. I still think it's marketed as an entry level sub compact. Also, I think it's a little bit ridiculous that cruise control isn't offered on the Versa S with the power package. It might be the only car that makes you buy the top of the line model to get cruise control.

[proxim2020]

Originally my wife and I wanted cruise control. There were a few other features like the center console, but we really didn't think it was worth all the extra money to get just a few things we really were concerned about. We really didn't think it was necessary to take the conv, audio, and satellite packages just for a sunroof. Plus, we realized we didn't use cruise control that much anyway, even on our road trips. So we went ahead with the S.

[rwanttaja]

I agree about the cupholders. That car is so roomy, Nissan could have done a better job. The gearshift in an automatic can go anywhere. Hubby pointed out that with the CVT (which we have) you could have push-buttons on the dash!

There was a make of car in the early '60s that did have push-button transmission controls. As I understand it, there's now some sort of Federal specification on automotive controls that may prevent this.

It's a good idea, though....

Ron Wanttaja

[Caddy65]

Originally my wife and I wanted cruise control. There were a few other features like the center console, but we really didn't think it was worth all the extra money to get just a few things we really were concerned about. We really didn't think it was necessary to take the conv, audio, and satellite packages just for a sunroof. Plus, we realized we didn't use cruise control that much anyway, even on our road trips. So we went ahead with the S.

That's the same conclusion I came too. I only use this car to drive to/from work (22 miles each way). I couldn't see spending an extra $2000 for a bunch of options I won't use, when all I wanted was cruise control and an arm rest. However, if Nissan adds these options to the Versa S next year, I might trade mine in.

[Link3]

Which brings up a couple RSM's...

And the Continental OE's are OK tires, but if you think the ride is nice now... well, wait till we start replacing tires. I bet you that it will be a whole different beast. I would much prefer that Nissan put Michelin Energy's on the car, but they're a bit more costly (and also the best OE tire I've ever seen).

While I'd agree that when tire replacement time comes my Versa will likely be shod with Michelins, I think that the Continentals are about the best OE tires I've experienced in a long time. The previous Hondas SUVs we had came with either Bridgestone Dueler or Goodyear Wrangler OE tires, and I thought that both of those were quite subpar compared to the quality of the rest of the vehicle. At least in the case of the Versa, I think the OE tires pretty well matched to the level of the vehicle and not a glaring negative, and would actually consider them at replacement time as well (a first).

[versabundus]

There was a make of car in the early '60s that did have push-button transmission controls. As I understand it, there's now some sort of Federal specification on automotive controls that may prevent this.

It's a good idea, though....

Ron Wanttaja

The late 50' s Edsel had the push buttons in the middle of the steering wheel!Chryslers and plymouths had them on the dash in the 60's. Reminds me of my '62 Valiant. God now that was an incredible economy car in it's day!Comfortable, and a bullet proof slant 6.

[marleyfan]

Buddy of mine had a '62 (or was it '61) Valiant when we were in high school. Push button transmisson, slant 6 that lasts forever but possibly one of the ugliest cars ever made.

On to the thread topic. I've had my Black Versa SL with CVT and Tech package for 3 days now. I absolutely love it. Had it out on the freeway for the first time today and was very impressed with the smooth ride and power. With high bitrate mp3's the sound system is killer (for an old guy). I actually WANT to go for drives now. Doubt I'll be driving the wife's '05 Vibe again unless I have to. A couple in a Sentra passed me and both gave me the thumbs up sign today.

[Scuba Steve]

Can you keep me posted on the Thule racks Thanks

[versace2007]

I have the S Automatic. The enginge would buzz before changings gears and then drones out when I'm cruising. Seats are comfortable, but I wish the seats would pump up on the S, I'm 6ft tall. The engine is VERY queit when you first get it...But I need everyones help on this...I think I might be freaking out. But when I first got the car I din't hear any engine noise or feel the engine running when idling. But now that I have put about 3,000 miles on it, i can hear the engine when it's idling and somewhat feel a slight rumble. ALSO, I no longer hear that "buzz" noise when I'm accelerating...Anyone have this same problem???

[SVersaS]

um that same thing happened to me at 500 miles. It was very quiet and then all of the sudden i started to hear slight engine noise too. I wasnt too worried about it cuz i didnt think it was a big deal. maybe im wrong.

[versace2007]

I sometimes run the RPM to like 4x and I have to climb a hill to reach speeds of 60 on the freeway...so...I guess that could result in the engine making noise? But I don't like running the engine more then 3x...Im light footed.

[SVersaS]

I sometimes run the RPM to like 4x and I have to climb a hill to reach speeds of 60 on the freeway...so...I guess that could result in the engine making noise? But I don't like running the engine more then 3x...Im light footed.

oh i always hear the engine buzz when i run it up to 4x, i was talking about when the car idles, at first there was no noise, but sometimes i wait for parking spots on campus so i let my car idle while i wait. recently i noticed that when it idles i hear it but i didnt when i first got it. but i dont really know if that is something i should worry about.

[Caddy65]

So how does everyone feel now? I am starting to find other little things. The windshield squirters suck. It barely even qualifies as a squirter. It only squirts a small portion of the windshield and relies on the wipers to move it around. I did my first oil change and was kind of mad when I realized I would have to remove a piece of plastic molding to get to the filter. To make matter worse, there are plastic fasteners that can only be used once. Luckily the piece of plastic is very flexible and can be bent very easily. The Gas mileage is still at 31 mpg for 75% highway driving. I was hoping it would get better as the car got older, but 500 miles later and it still hasn't changed. I even put synthetic oil in the car and still no change. Anyone else have any gripes?

[versace2007]

oh i always hear the engine buzz when i run it up to 4x, i was talking about when the car idles, at first there was no noise, but sometimes i wait for parking spots on campus so i let my car idle while i wait. recently i noticed that when it idles i hear it but i didnt when i first got it. but i dont really know if that is something i should worry about.

Yes, i can hear my car idling when I park my car in my garage. I never heard the engine before.

[FlightNurse]

I think people need to understand about the Versa is, its not your typical B car. The Yaris, FIT, Spectra are your typical B cars... The Versa is a more upscale car then they are. Look at the option list, no other car in its class has BLuetooth (no honda car offers) or Intelli-Key. I'm getting 31 with my car and I'm happy wiht it, my last car 2000 Ford Contour was getting 24. I have 6K miles on my car and never regret on buying it. IF MPG is your #1 concern, then the Versa isn't your car...

tony

So how does everyone feel now? I am starting to find other little things. The windshield squirters suck. It barely even qualifies as a squirter. It only squirts a small portion of the windshield and relies on the wipers to move it around. I did my first oil change and was kind of mad when I realized I would have to remove a piece of plastic molding to get to the filter. To make matter worse, there are plastic fasteners that can only be used once. Luckily the piece of plastic is very flexible and can be bent very easily. The Gas mileage is still at 31 mpg for 75% highway driving. I was hoping it would get better as the car got older, but 500 miles later and it still hasn't changed. I even put synthetic oil in the car and still no change. Anyone else have any gripes?

[kmil123]

I feel like the old man of the group here, I bought my Versa the first part of July, and have 4200 miles on it. This what I think:

First off, the ride isn't 'stiff' people, well to americans, yes, but to europeans it isn't. This car has lots of European features, the ride and seats are the two things that set this car apart from a true japaness car and a European car. The ride is firm, but not bone jarring. the Versa rides better then our 05 Altima SE.

The CVT does take a while to get use to, but I love it, its so smooth. I have finally figured out how to keep the engine in the sweet spot to get the most use of the torque the engine produces. Now I can zip through traffic with out much problems.

Tony

Modified by FlightNurse at 5:12 PM 10/12/2006

You said: "The CVT does take a while to get use to, but I love it, its so smooth. I have finally figured out how to keep the engine in the sweet spot to get the most use of the torque the engine produces. Now I can zip through traffic with out much problems."

Soooooo.........Please tell us what you''ve done to "keep the engine in the sweet spot and get the most use of the torque..........".

Thanks!!!

[kmil123]

I feel like the old man of the group here, I bought my Versa the first part of July, and have 4200 miles on it. This what I think:

First off, the ride isn't 'stiff' people, well to americans, yes, but to europeans it isn't. This car has lots of European features, the ride and seats are the two things that set this car apart from a true japaness car and a European car. The ride is firm, but not bone jarring. the Versa rides better then our 05 Altima SE.

The CVT does take a while to get use to, but I love it, its so smooth. I have finally figured out how to keep the engine in the sweet spot to get the most use of the torque the engine produces. Now I can zip through traffic with out much problems.

Tony

Modified by FlightNurse at 5:12 PM 10/12/2006

You said: "The CVT does take a while to get use to, but I love it, its so smooth. I have finally figured out how to keep the engine in the sweet spot to get the most use of the torque the engine produces. Now I can zip through traffic with out much problems."

Soooooo.........Please tell us what you''ve done to "keep the engine in the sweet spot and get the most use of the torque..........".

Thanks!!!

I feel like the old man of the group here, I bought my Versa the first part of July, and have 4200 miles on it. This what I think:

First off, the ride isn't 'stiff' people, well to americans, yes, but to europeans it isn't. This car has lots of European features, the ride and seats are the two things that set this car apart from a true japaness car and a European car. The ride is firm, but not bone jarring. the Versa rides better then our 05 Altima SE.

The CVT does take a while to get use to, but I love it, its so smooth. I have finally figured out how to keep the engine in the sweet spot to get the most use of the torque the engine produces. Now I can zip through traffic with out much problems.

The layout of the dash and feel of the controls are a mix of japan and europe.

Parking this car is a dream, the turning radius is amazing.

The Convience package is a bargin, $700 you get features that cars twice its price don't offer, and once you start using the Intelli-key you wont want to go back to the old Key Fob deal....

Last night a teamate of mine (play softball) was looking at my car, and started asking me questions about. I told him everything that I just wrote about the car, my only biggest ***** is the MPG this car is getting.... I trully think someone is mis quoting the figures... So on a scale of 0-10, I give this car a solid 8....

Tony

Modified by FlightNurse at 5:12 PM 10/12/2006