The 2008 Nissan Versa is available as a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback, each in two trim levels. All are powered by the same 122-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels.
The Versa S sedan ($12,880) and hatchback ($12,980) come standard with cloth upholstery; air conditioning with micro filter; four-speaker, 120-watt AM/FM/CD stereo; tilt steering column; and 185/65R15 tires on 15-inch steel wheels. The hatchback also features a 60/40 split folding rear seat. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, a four-speed automatic transmission is optional ($800). Options include cruise control ($200), and a Power Package ($700) consisting of power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, door armrest pads, rear door map pockets, and a glove compartment light.
The Versa SL sedan ($14,890) and hatchback ($14,980) make cruise control and the contents of the Power Package standard, plus a more powerful (180-watt) stereo with an in-dash 6CD changer and MP3 capability, premium woven seat fabric, a more adjustable driver's seat, and center armrests front and rear. Tires are the same size as the base model's, but are mounted on 15-inch machined alloy wheels. Sedan and hatchback both come with split folding rear seats. A six-speed manual is standard. Optional is a continuously variable automatic transmission, or CVT ($1,000); a four-speed automatic transmission is an option ($750) for the SL sedan.
Options for the SL include XM Satellite Radio ($150), along with five option packages: The Convenience Package ($650) features an Intelligent Key system, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, and audio switches on a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Sunroof Package ($600) features a power sunroof and illuminated visor vanity mirrors. The Sport Package ($700) includes fog lights, a rear spoiler, side sill extensions, unique front and rear fascias for the hatchback, and a front chin spoiler for the sedan. An Audio Package ($300) for the hatchback adds a 100-watt Rockford-Fosgate stereo with premium speakers and subwoofer.
Accessories for Versa include an iPod interface ($290), splash guards ($110), floor mats ($105-$155), auto-dimming mirror ($125), interior accent lighting ($300), and aluminum kick plates ($130). A rear roof spoiler ($250) can be added to any hatchback.
Safety features are comprehensive, and include advanced front airbags, side-impact airbags, roof-mounted curtain airbags, front-seat active head restraints, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) are an option ($250) on all models and we recommend getting it.