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Nissan Versa

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Comments

  • alpha01alpha01 Member Posts: 4,747
    Backy, according to this, OFFICIAL Versa pricing was released on the 23rd? That doesn't strike me as ahwile ago...

    www.nissannews.com

    ~alpha
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    Well, it was before the date of the review that was mum on pricing. I suppose the article was written well before that however.

    I will endeavor to keep better track of the dates of all information broadcast by the auto companies in the future, so I am more accurate when I say "awhile ago", and also save your valuable time in having to make a post that takes issue with what I said.
  • kc7kc7 Member Posts: 96
    After cruising around, I think Nissan China's website contained the MOST Versa TV ads available for viewing. And unlike the Taiwan version, this one you can download and watch it off-line again and again.

    Maybe Versa is such a big seller in China, the Nissan China guys have crammed tons of stuff in their website. Thus its a bigger website than other Nissan sites in other countries. They even have a dedicated Tiida website. In this website, there are 5 versions of TV ads with sound, both for the hatch and the sedan version.

    Unlike the Taiwan version, their TV ads are quite traditional, but luckily, we can get a clear camera moving view of the Versa's enormous interior, clearer than if seeing from a static photo. Seeing is believing ! Don't take my word for it !

    Here's how to get them. Go to : http://www.tiida.com.cn

    Once the site loads, click on the talking bubble with Chinese characters above the hatchback photo section, and once it loads, on the most top right hand side of the menu section there is a number of Chinese characters followed by the letters TVC (maybe it stands for TV campaign)

    Click there, then a pop up will appear and you can choose and download any or all of the 5 TV ads. the download file will be named so far as I remember ...TV3.., TV5, etc.

    This website is bigger, hence more "troublesome", but since there are both hatch and sedan ads with sound, plus you can watch it again and again, its quite worth downloading. Some of the ads are full 30 second ads or longer I think. I don't think you can find any more complete collection of overseas Versa ads anywhere else at this moment.

    If anyone got trouble, pls tell me, I will try to guide you there, but its not really that difficult.

    Happy viewing !
  • kc7kc7 Member Posts: 96
    Here is a link to view Australia's TV ad for Versa :

    http://www.nissan.com.au/tiida/

    The ad is starred by Kim Cattrall of Sex and the City fame. But I heard this ad actually backfired in Australia because she gives the Versa a " girl's " car image and not everyone likes the character which she played in sex and the city.

    Also I think Nissan made a mistake in not using the old famous Nissan Pulsar name in Australia which the Versa is supposed to replace. By insisting on using Tiida instead of Pulsar, Australians may be upset that an old loved name is removed and replaced by a new unknown name.

    Its like if a new Coke is launched, the old Coke name is removed and replaced by Ekoc. Oh Nissan ! This time I think you made a big mistake in Australia ! How can you replace an old familiar name with such a big equity value just to tie up the Australian Tiida with her sisters in other countries ?

    I also agree that paying Kim I heard a lot of money is actually risky. Not just Kim, but using celebrities could be risky for any ad. Because if that person one day did something unpopular, the product using that person may get some impact too.

    Anyway, here is it for your viewing pleasure. Two versions, one a 30 sec and the other 45 secs.
  • kc7kc7 Member Posts: 96
    Remember I once said the Versa looks better in real life than in some photos ?

    Here, I found in a Thai website photos of Versa sedan scale models which look very much like those I saw. And they do convey the solid, better looking car in 3 dimentions than in 2d photos.

    The top photo is a Versa hatchback toy remote control. I read somewhere in English that when the Versa goes on sale soon at the end of June in Thailand, early buyers get free Versa remote control cars for their kids. How cute ! Imagine the boy shouting to father " Dad, I am driving your car ! "

    The rest are scale model ready made Versa sedans. They are so cute ! Wish I could get my hands on some of them.

    Here are the photos :

    http://tiida-club.com/board/YaBB.pl?num=1150977056
  • ross14ross14 Member Posts: 36
    My French car, Citroen ID 19, had best ride of any car, & its interior was plush & roomy, but it was a failure. It had a horrible engine, & a worse transmission. Let's hope the Versa's engine establishes a decent mpg, & that reliability is OK. If so, this Versa will dominate the mini-market.
  • kc7kc7 Member Posts: 96
    Wait ! This is not another dose of Versaism from me only. I made this statement based on a reasonable deduction of some facts about the Versa.

    I am aware that when an entirely new engine starts to be sold, some people, fairly enough, may have concerns about reliability / bugs in that new product. It's quite common not just in cars, but in software as well (gamers know this better !) Look at the many patches, updates !

    BUT here is the good news. We all want fresh new stuff, however, in cars, I realize there is actually some advantage in waiting and letting other markets " test " and use the product first.

    In Versa's case, she and her new more fuel efficient engine was born in Japan, in the 2nd half of 2004. Then soon after in 2005 she starts to spread her wings in China, Middle East, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong.

    Thus since her birth, Versa's engines have been used by many consumers in these markets for about 2 years already. There does not seem to be any major recalls reported, and any minor bugs will already have been reported and ironed out in 2 years of use.

    Thus although this is no guarantee the Versa's engine will be 100% trouble free (there are no guarantees in life !), 2 years to me is quite long enough to see how a new engine performs in real life use.

    Thus the Japanese, Chinese, Australians, etc. who bought the Versa in large numbers since 2 years ago have already done the trials for later consumers like Americans, Thais and upcoming new Versa markets. Till today I have not heard any major meaningful troubles in those new HR15DE, MR16DE, MR18DE and MR20DE engines.

    Another good sign is 2 years after her birth, Versa is still among the top 10 Japanese cars in Japan. In China as well she is still a blockbuster. Hence it should mean her reliability / performance do satisfy many people's expectations.

    The story is different if tomorrow Nissan sells an entirely brand new say Fuel Cell engine, just out of the design studio in Japan. Well, in this case, nobody knows how it will perform for the next 2 years or so.
  • kc7kc7 Member Posts: 96
    For those who have seen other Versa websites, pls don't think you have seen it all. Because Nissan wesites around the world differ in quality and quantity.

    I have been monitoring Nissan Thailand and today they just gave birth to the Versa there. And their website is quite good. Many large photos of the Versa's interior and exterior. They gave birth to both the hatch and the sedan at the same time.

    I prefer the sedan's combination of beige and wood interior color. Very elegant I would say. And the website demonstrates the 1.8 version's ability to slide the rear seat several inches for more cargo when needed.

    In addition, you can also see how the rear seats can recline up to 40 degrees if you decide to sleep on long journeys. I don't think the Fit and Yaris can do this.

    Also the photos once again demonstrates the Versa's roomy cabin and more than adequate cargo bay, even if the rear seats don't fold flat with the cargo area.

    It's worth looking at. Here is it, one the main website, the other a kind of powerpoint like presentation :

    http://www.feeltiida.com

    http://www.nissanphp.com/tiida/default.php

    I am still deciphering the Thai website, so haven't found any Versa TV ads there yet.

    By the time you have seen all the websites I posted here, you may be more familiar with the Versa than the guys at your nearest Nissan dealer (unless they visit Edmunds.com too !)
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,435
    I assume it is going up in size a bit. Quite a big gap now from the Sentra to the Altima.

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    It is. But from the reports on the Versa's passenger room, the Sentra would need to be really big inside to better it. Maybe the real puzzler is the Versa sedan--not that great looking IMO, and will it compete with the Sentra?
  • ross14ross14 Member Posts: 36
    Versa seems a cut above. Great back seat, good front seat, roomy. Tested in this months' "Motor Trend", & had same mpg as Fit: 32. Waiting for the print advertising wars to begin on the sub-compact niche.
  • stickguystickguy Member Posts: 50,435
    are you sure you aren't looking at the S, where most of those options aren't available at all?

    2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.

  • nedlnedl Member Posts: 2
    I am going to purchase either a Nissan Versa, Honda Fit, or Toyota Yaris. Actually I like all 3 cars but since I can only get one, a choice has to be made. I test drove the Fit (Sport) and the Yaris about one month ago, and got to test drive a Versa S 6-speed manual on June 29, 2006 at Deland Nissan in Deland, Florida (between Daytona Beach and Orlando).
    I have owned two Hondas previously a 1999 CRV and a 1986 Honda Accord. Right now I own a Chevy Astro Van (which I will keep as a second vehicle, mainly for cargo hauling).
    I enjoyed the two Hondas but do not have any brand loyalty. I have never owned a Toyota before.
    After having test driven the Fit and Yaris (both nice vehicles) I was more inclined to favor the Fit because it is a hatchback. I liked the Yaris, especially the EPA gas mileage figures which are better than the Fit. I decided to wait and test drive the Versa since the gas mileage was more or less in line with the Fit and Yaris.
    After having test driven the Versa, I am favoring the Versa over the Fit and the Yaris for the following personal reasons (which others may disagree with after having test driving the three vehicles themselves):
    1. Larger car feel over the Fit/Yaris.
    2. Excellent Ride Quality - I prefer it over the Fit and possibly over the Yaris, although my impression of the Yaris ride was very favorable.
    3. Intelligent Key - Fob only to carry in your pocket- no key to insert to unlock the doors or start the engine if I understand the literature and the Versa salesman correctly.
    4. CVT Transmission which apparently gets better gas
    mileage than the 6 speed manual or 4 speed automatic (which may not be available in the immediately future, or so I was told). I am going to test drive a CVT Versa before making my final decision.
    5. Overall best subjective impression over the Fit and Yaris.

    I have not definitely made up my mind yet but unless I find out something different or my impressions change, I am going to purchase the Versa.

    My intention in writing this message is this: Don't make a pre-judgment from forums, magazines, brand loyalty,
    etc. on which car to purchase, because there is nothing better to help you decide then test driving all three cars yourself. My initial reaction was not to test drive the Versa at all since it wasn't available a month ago, and also because the Honda and Toyota nameplates are better well known (at least that is my perception).

    I would be interested in hearing the comments of those who have test driven all three vehicles since they may pick up on something I may have missed.
    Ned
  • brianmitabrianmita Member Posts: 9
    nice write up, can I ask where you sit demographically?
  • mattschechtermattschechter Member Posts: 58
    Glad to have your impressions... my only reservation about the Versa is the fact that the US Versa is constructed at a brand new plant in Mexico and with Nissan's past reliability issues this makes me wary - I guess I've been burned one to many times as an early adopter. On the flip side, the Fit is 100% Japanese made at a plant that has been making them for 5+ years. These considerations, while not obtainable on a test drive, are none-the-less important for me.
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    Are you sure this is a new Nissan plant in Mexico? Nissan has been making Sentras there for some time, according to reports I have read (e.g. see link below).

    http://www.motiontrends.com/2005/m09eng/nissan/versa.shtml

    The Fit's long-term track record cannot be denied, however.
  • mattschechtermattschechter Member Posts: 58
    I realize that the Aguascalientes plant isn't new per se, but my point was that the Versa is new to the Aguascalientes plant whereas the Fit is not new it's Suzuki, JP plant. Any time you bring a new car into a plant it has to be re-tooled and the workers must be retained. There's a learning curve for both the plant engineering and the labor force with a production model and I'd rather buy a car after the plateau of that curve has been reached than buy one of the first ever made at the facility.

    You're linked article also mentioned the fact that Aguascalientes is increasing its production by 70%, mostly due to the Versa/Tiida production. These new technical and labor demands can only contribute to quality decreases in the short term. Don't get me wrong... if this were 2009 and the Versa had been out for 2-3 years I wouldn't be concerned. (Note: KC7, this has nothing to do with "Mexican babies vs. Japanese babies" and I'm not being intentionally negative... I just happen to lack your uncritical exuberance.)

    Tangentially, Aguascalientes and Nissan North America have had their fair share of quality management issues in the past and quite recently too. Just a few days ago they announced a recall of 97,000 Sentra's and Altima's made at Aguascalientes and Tennessee (respectively). The problem? Engine fires. Read the article below for more:
    http://www.clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060623/NEWS/606230362/- 1001

    ************
    Nissan North America said Thursday it has begun the recall process on about 97,000 sedans as more cases of engine fires and excessive oil use surfaced.

    Only one injury, which was minor, has been reported, Nissan spokesman Fred Standish said.

    Nissan North America told dealers early this month to stop selling 2006 Sentra SE-Rs and 2.5 liter, four-cylinder Altimas made between January and mid-May. Warranties on customer cars in that range were extended by seven years or 100,000 miles.

    The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is made at Nissan's Decherd, Tenn., engine facility. Altimas are made in Canton and Smyrna, Tenn., and Sentras are made in Aguascalientes, Mexico.

    "We have filed a first step in the recall process," he said. "We'll notify the customers later about what to do."

    Nissan has taken reports of 24 engine fires and 274 cases of excessive oil consumption, up seven and 59 respectively since June 2 when it made the stop-sell announcement.

    The company told customers with vehicles possibly affected to check their oil every 700 miles.

    "We are very confident that if oil levels are maintained, there will be no problems," Standish said.

    Karen Aldana, public affairs specialist with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, said Nissan on Tuesday filed a preliminary defect information report and the agency made it public Thursday.

    The agency lists excessive oil consumption as a defect, but not one that rises to the level of posing a safety risk. Manufacturers can voluntarily recall their products at any point, but the administration uses safety risk findings as a part of it's formula in issuing a recall on its own.

    Nissan's report, obtained by The Clarion-Ledger on Thursday, pointed to failure of piston rings as the culprit causing oil loss, although the company's investigation is still ongoing. The report specifically states the defect may constitute a safety risk.

    "Nissan determined that a safety-related defect may exist in some of the vehicles under investigation," the report stated.

    Piston rings are thin metallic bands that surround each piston. During the piston's up-and-down cycle, they help remove excess oil from cylinder walls and maintain pressure in the combustion chamber, which keeps exhaust gases from blowing by the piston into the engine crankcase.

    "The root cause has not been uncovered. We made some changes in some parts back in May, and have tested those engines. Engines made after that point have showed no excessive oil consumption," Standish said. "We obviously have suspicions but are getting more data in every day."

    Nissan says about 85,000 of the cars are in the United States; the rest were exported to Canada, Mexico and the Middle East.

    Nissan hasn't set a date for the recall, but owners can call Nissan at (800) 647-7261."
    *************

    Despite Nissan's feigned ignorance of the source of the problems, I found a more up front answer in a post by a Nissan Tech over at the Car and Driver forums:

    http://www.caranddriver.com/idealbb/view.asp?topicID=74191

    ***********
    "So it turns out the problem is that Nissan has a number of parts suppliers, some for pistons, some for rings, some for crankshafts, etc. A while back we actually had an issue with QR25 motors consuming oil. I have seen Nissan eat QR25s that were abused, neglected, and generally did not justify being warrantied, because they could not prove that it was not an inherent issue. The problem was that our ring supplier was making a substandard ring that saved us a couple of pennies on the dollar over competing suppliers. We apparently got rid of that one supplier and started using a new one after we had problems the first time around. But then, in a bit of what can only be described as a huge WHOOPS!!, somebody in charge of hiring suppliers somehow forgot that this company made crap product and bought rings from the same people that gave us junk in the first place. Nissan caught it, but not until thousands of cars had been delivered to dealerships, and hundreds if not a few thousand had already been sold...so we repeat the same old cycle all over again. Oh well, at least I'm not hurt by it."
    ************

    You might take from this that you really do get what you pay for with Nissan. Yes, the Versa comes with more bells/whistles (intelligent key, bluetooth, CVT, etc.) and has some features that are better than the Fit (armrest, adjustable height seat, rear legroom, intermediate wiper speeds) along with a better price, but there's a reason it's less expensive to buy: it's less expensive to produce! This isn't true with all price deltas (look at Porsche Carrera vs VW Toureg for example... $10K more for the name Porsche slapped on the back of Toureg) but when your parts costs (100% JDM Fit vs. US/Mexico Versa) and labor costs (Suzuki vs. Aguascalientes) are lower, both your selling price and your reliability go down. Buyer beware.
  • mattschechtermattschechter Member Posts: 58
    demographically? Like race, class, gender?
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    The problem was that our ring supplier was making a substandard ring that saved us a couple of pennies on the dollar over competing suppliers.

    So the fact that Nissan bought defective rings that wound up causing some engine fires in some Sentras and Altimas (which use a totally different engine than the Versa) is a good reason to avoid the Versa?

    Does that mean that because Honda bought defective oil filters for its CR-V and they caused fires, we should avoid buying the Fit? Or how about the transmission defects that caused the recall of over 1 million Accords and Acuras not long ago. Those defects could cause gear failure, resulting in transmission lockup which in turn could result in a crash.

    Should we take from these examples that you really do get what you pay for with Honda?

    From all reports I have seen, the quality of the materials in the Versa is high. One way Nissan has probably saved some money on the Versa is to not use the latest engine technology, i.e. CVVT. That may affect aspects like fuel economy, but not reliability by itself.

    Anyway, the price difference of the Fit vs. Versa isn't all that great. A base Fit costs $14,400 MSRP, with ABS, power package, and side bags/curtains. A Versa with similar equipment costs just over $14k MSRP. That small difference can easily be explained by the difference in labor costs between Japan and Mexico. I don't follow how you can draw the conclusion from pricing data that reliability of the Versa will be poor.
  • moparbadmoparbad Member Posts: 3,870
    Japan good, Mexican bad???? :sick:

    The engines with the recall was NOT manufactured in Mexico, it was not manufactures in Aguascalientes.
    There have been several recalls this past year of Toyota and Honda models that were manufactured in Japan. Japan does NOT equal quality.
  • mattschechtermattschechter Member Posts: 58
    Perfect distillation of my thesis moparbad. I really don't know why I was so long winded when I could have made my point so precisely with just those four words... after all, who needs verbs!!

    For those who do not read sarcasm well, let me clarify (in a bit more than four words). I'm in no way talking about Japan v. Mexico. In a globalized society production tends to be production wherever you go. I'm in no way talking about Honda Motors v. Nissan Motors. I'm hardly even talking about Fit v. Versa. I'm saying, plainly, that:

    A) The process of bringing a new manufactured good to market is not flawless, particularly for complex goods. A car (of any make, model, origin, religion, race, or creed) is a prime example of a complex good that is subject to flaws upon market entry.

    B) All automakers are subject to some degree to such flaws. Backy's reference to the Honda recalls is a prime example. So is my reference to the Altima/Sentra recalls. These Nissan problems were mentioned merely to point out that Nissan, like nearly all other car companies, is not exempt from flawed production. Some makes and models are more subject to trouble than others (Ford Pinto v. Volvo 240). Factors contributing to flaws include using cheap parts, poor engineering, factory error, and complex supply chains.

    C) The error rate for new vehicles of a certain model car is not static. Generally, it is inversely proportional to the amount of time a given model has been in production both worldwide and at a given facility. Problems also decrease as the manufacturer discovers errors in it's supply chain (a la Nissan's ring woes which are now corrected thus decreasing the error rate for Sentra/Altima). Thus, one would expect relatively few errors after a car had been in large-scale production at a given plan for a few years.

    D) The Versa is new to Aguascalientes. The supply chains for the US Versa are new. The labor force making the Versa is new. Does novelty equate automatically with poor quality? Absolutely not. Does novelty increase the probability that, compared to an established model, there are are reliability issues? Keeping in mind points A), B), and C) I say yes. The likelihood of Versa having problems for a year or two until they get all the bugs worked out is greater than the likelihood that Fit have problems. This doesn't mean that Fit won't have problems or Versa will for sure, but it's an educated conclusion. This is no reason to skip buying the Versa, but just go in with your eyes open... there are more costs than those listed on the price tag and they are not equal for all cars.
  • brianmitabrianmita Member Posts: 9
    the Versa CVT beat the Fit AT in Motor Trend's real world mileage results in its recent comparo. the

    32.2 for the fit, and 32.5 for the Versa. Priced out, the fit is $500 dollars cheaper in this config, but the versa comes with a bit more, like the bluetooth, etc. the yaris beat them both handily with 36.4 mpg.
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    You keep saying things like "the factory in Mexico making the Versa is new" and "the labor force making the Versa [in Mexico] is new", even after it has been pointed out that the factory in Mexico has been there making small cars for many years. So the factory is not new, and the labor force is not new (although they might add workers to handle the increased production).

    Would you agree then that when the all-new Fit debuts next year, it will be the Versa that has the lesser likelihood of problems than the new Fit? Buying any first-year model involves additional risk over buying a five-year-old design. Good examples are the 1999 Odyssey, the 2001 Civic, the 2003 Accord, and the 2006 Civic--all which had significant problems in their first year. Being built in Japan or the U.S. or Mexico or whereever doesn't eliminate that risk.
  • cjshowcjshow Member Posts: 16
    Here is a link to the article from MotorWeek (can't find video clip at this time). They liked the capable handling, softer ride and larger back seat in comparison to the Fit.

    link title

    I was able to sit in the Versa at the Detroit auto show. I was impressed by how large it felt inside. I sat in it immediately after the Matrix and felt it to be about the same size in feel, though the exterior is smaller. I also like the standard hard cargo cover in the versa, which is absent in the Matrix. The bi-leveled cargo area doesn't bother me that much as I will most likely be carrying passengers more often than cargo. I am looking forward to test driving one as soon as they come in. :)
  • mattschechtermattschechter Member Posts: 58
    I absolutely agree with the risk inherent in a new product model launch... be it Versa, Fit, Civic, Accord etc and the country of origin has little to do with anything. Of course, it depends on how much is new in the model redesign. If many of the parts are the same or the engineering is the same, I'd be less concerned as the suppliers and labor will be more or less "tried and true."

    I apologize for my phrasing "the factory in Mexico making the Versa is new." I intended to say "the Versa is new to the Mexican factory in which it is made for the US market." I stand by my assertion that the Versa labor force will start out new to the vehicle's production.
  • kc7kc7 Member Posts: 96
    Call me an unreasonable optimist if you want, but in my view, today, Nissan, Toyota and Honda's quality are NOT far apart. I feel they are SIMILAR. Yes, they have problems at Canton etc, but are Toyota and Honda cars, even those made in Japan, problem free ?

    And I agree that made in Japan does not guarantee anything. If you have been regularly monitoring automotive news, you will realize that even made in Japan cars still have occasional recalls, sometimes even in surprisingly massive numbers. And that includes Toyota who sometimes people think their quality is number 1. If you read the hybrid forums, sometimes the Prius have " strange " behaviour. Could be due to the complicated computer codes and the complicated powerplant.

    So I am not too worried. Yes, maybe some minor bugs could pop up, but these guys have been making cars for an awfully long time.

    To take another example, Boeing have been making airliners for so long. So if tomorrow they launch a new B-788, should people start to worry and avoid airlines using these aircraft because it's a " new model " and the factory people got to be re-trained etc ?

    For me, I don't worry so much. An aircraft is an aircraft. Basic design is the same. The fundamentals are basically the same. Same with Versa vs older Nissans etc. Engine maybe newer type, but hey, it's still mainly pistons, crankshafts etc.

    Unless like I said, it's an entirely new fangled fuel cell engine never before used and made on a massive scale. Then I may be quite worried.

    The internal combustion engine have been around for you know ages. In fact, I am more confident in Versa's conventional, albeit, improved internal combustion engine's "long term" reliability than say a hybrid's complex powerplant.
  • ross14ross14 Member Posts: 36
    To discuss safety, at least go to the collision results of government & insurance testing. then defend a position. To discuss reliability, before giving an opinion, go to government recall info. Go to owner surveys online. Go to surveys by J.D. Powers on cars. Go to "Consumer Reports" owner surveys. Get Data. Or should I tell you about this, or that cars worth, based on my guesstimates.? My wife is so impressed with the Versa, after looking at the Yaris, Accent, & the Fit. She doesn't care about the trunk. She just loves sitting in the driver's seat, which is so thick & plush, & feeling like she is in a much larger car. She doesn't consider the Versa a small car.
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    CR's predicted reliability for the Sentra, which is made in the same Mexican factory as the Versa is, is "Above Average." That is based on no worse than "Average" reliability ratings for the Sentra over the past eight years. I think the Sentra has been made in Mexico since at least 2000. The latest rating for the Sentra, for 2005, was well above average (solid red dot). I hope that bodes well for the Versa.
  • kc7kc7 Member Posts: 96
    Backy, I remember you said one of the reasons the Versa is cheap is because Nissan doesn't give us the newest technology like CVVT.

    That may not be 100% true. Why ? So far as I know, Versa's MR18DE engine is Nissan's LATEST design done together with Renault. In their homeland Japanese market, MR18DE is Nissan's newest and latest 1800 cc engine on sale there. No other Nissan 1800 cc there is of a newer generation. Correct me if I am wrong. Nissan have launched other models not found in USA like Nissan Bluebird Sylphy, and this sedan also uses the MR18DE.

    In fact for this new engine family (MR and HR series), Nissan claims the HR15DE is about 25% more fuel efficient than their previous generation 1500 cc engine. The MR20DE is even more impressive. They claim MR20DE is 37% more fuel efficient than the previous QR20DE engine.

    Thus from this fact, may I say that Versa's engine is the latest, most fuel efficient in Nissan's line-up that is offered to us. I mean does anybody have figures on Toyota and Honda's 1800 cc engine fuel figures ? We cannot compare Versa's 1800 cc to Fit and Yaris's 1500 cc. It just ain't comparing apples with apples. They are on par, because my research has proved that IF the Versa on sale in USA is using the HR15DE version, the mpg figures are virtually IDENTICAL with Fit and Yaris's engines, and even with that, Versa is still a bit heavier than Fit / Yaris.

    Maybe if there is enough consumers who want the 1500 cc version badly make their wishes clear and loud enough, Nissan North America may just sell this version one day ? A bit less power and strength, but you get Versa + Fit / Yaris's mpg figures. Actually if I am Nissan, I will also sell the 1500 cc version. But they probably have some reasons for not offering this version now.

    But having said that, to be honest, unless one drives hundreds of miles a day, I think the 1800 cc version makes more sense. The difference in gas money is small compared to the power and extra strength for climbing / carrying full load compared to 1500 cc engines. That is why many reviews feel Versa have more staying power / stamina when climbing and carrying heavy loads. That extra 300 cc sure makes a difference.

    Also, for those who intend to use Versa for longer periods of time, may I suggest you get the CVT version. Since CVT's improve gas by about 10-15%, the break even point for the premium you paid for is not too long. You can do the maths yourself.
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    Here is a quote from a review of the Versa. I can't post the link because it is from a competitive site to Edmunds. But if you use your favorite search engine on "Versa variable valve timing" and maybe encourage it with a shout of "yahoo!" you should find it.

    Other than the CVT, there's nothing truly new or envelope-stretching in the Versa's powertrain. No variable valve timing, variable intake or exhaust runners or high tech electronics are incorporated.

    Honda's 1.8L engine in the Civic, with CVVT, has EPA ratings of 30 city, 40 highway with the automatic. It also puts out 140 hp. Both figures exceed those of the Versa. Toyota's 1.8L CVVT engine in the Corolla has EPA ratings of 32/41 with the 5-speed stick, and 126 hp. Again, those numbers exceed those of the Versa.
  • kc7kc7 Member Posts: 96
    Fair enough backy. But here's the thing : Does Toyota and Honda offer a Versa kind of mini-maxi car for similar money ?

    The Civic and Corolla cost more and have less room. So it comes back to the question ? Extra gas mileage vs extra room / price vs what you get for.

    Well, in this case maybe you are quite right backy, but still, Versa's price tag makes her a good buy.

    Anyway, for me, I pay attention to the test drive feeling, the cabin / features etc. and the mpg figures, whether the whole package feels allright for the money. Even if the Civic's max hp is bigger, other factors may more than compensate, because remember, we do not often drive our cars to their maximum rpms.

    Its the whole package vs money we pay out that is the final deal factor I guess.
  • kc7kc7 Member Posts: 96
    In my opinion, a difference of say only 2-5 mpg really won't hurt our wallet, even at $3-4 gas, unless you drive 100+ miles daily and regularly. Maths shows it.

    After all, when we buy cars, other factors are also crucial, not just mpgs per se. Unless we are talking about changing from a 18 mpg to a 32 mpg car.
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    Then why waste your time asking the questions, since no matter what the answer it won't matter--you will still love the Versa.

    The question was about whether the Versa uses the latest engine technology. It doesn't. That doesn't make it a bad car. It's a choice Nissan made, and which buyers can make. It doesn't matter to me whether an engine has CVVT or not. It's the results that matter.
  • canuck785canuck785 Member Posts: 160
    i just received an email from a nissan dealership in my area (kansas) and he is getting 2 versa this week!!! i will post my comments after the " meeting" ;)
  • kc7kc7 Member Posts: 96
    Relax man ! Relax ! In a democracy, can't I ask questions even though I still love the car ?

    Just because a guy loves a woman, can't he ask people " Is my wife / girlfriend pretty ? " Obviously he will want to hear the good answer, but asking questions doesn't hurt, does it ?

    OK. Maybe you want me to say this, and I will. Versa is NOT a perfect car. For people who often haul lots of cargo, a better choice is to wait for the Versa sedan, or find another car. Yes, the Fit will do.
  • dudleyrdudleyr Member Posts: 3,469
    I hope the Versa sells well - may help bring down prices for the Fit.

    Like the size of the Versa, but it gets the same highway mileage as an Accord (with the MT - my choice), and Accords are very reasonably priced right now - and much roomier.
  • ecotrklvrecotrklvr Member Posts: 519
    I'm vacationing in the Bay Area; I took a chance and stopped by Boardwalk Nissan in Redwood City. They had a fairly well loaded SL on the showroom floor (no chance for a drive - would have loved to drive the CVT). It's back on black. The sales consultant, Robert, spent a lot of time showing me the car, and especially the bluetooth phone operation.

    Impressions:
    As said by many others, it's very roomy for tall people - I'm 6'4", and I felt more comfortable behind the wheel there than in my Highlander. Most notable is the all the room to the right of the driver's right leg. The Highlander is among the worst for intruding there - the Versa is among the best.

    The driver's seat is very comfortable. WAAAY better than my Highlander. Even in the SL, it's got no lumbar adjustment, but it's got decent support anyway. There's two levers on the right of the seat - one for cushion height, the other for seatback angle. Lots of range for both adjustments.

    Also amazing is the rear seat room. I could ride for hours in the back, even with the seat all the way back. Room for only two, but quite nice.

    The cargo area is decent, but could be improved. I wish that they had added the ability for the rear seat cushion to tumble forward (a la the Ford Focus Wagon) to create the ideal flat load floor. But even without this addition, it's a pretty big space. The thing that makes it a two-tier affair is the very low floor at the rear hatch. Whether the seats are up or down, the "barrier" formed by the rear seat cushion will prevent that heavy suitcase from sliding into the front seatbacks. So, there is an upside to this design.

    And, of course, the bluetooth interface. I love the ability to not have to even touch the phone to receive calls - there's a button on the steering wheel for that. The audio system automatically lets you know there's a call; touch the button to answer it, and then it is played through its speakers. There's a built-in mike (visor area). It's really a sweet system.

    When I get back to Southern California, I'll be driving this car for sure. The Highlander's seat is really bugging me these days. But it's gotta be silver or white (sorry, Robert).

    Anyone know if there's a roof rack / bike carrier available?
  • Kirstie_HKirstie_H Administrator Posts: 11,146
    A reporter aims to talk to some empowered consumers who pay no attention to ads and instead seek out their own information through community forums before making purchases.
    Please respond to jfallon@edmunds.com by Monday, July 10, 2006 and be sure to provide your daytime contact information and a few words about your experience.

    MODERATOR /ADMINISTRATOR
    Need help navigating? kirstie_h@edmunds.com - or send a private message by clicking on my name.
    Share your vehicle reviews

  • jbmeehanjbmeehan Member Posts: 5
    Does anyone know when the CVT transmission will be avaiable on the 1.8 base model Versa?
  • flightnurseflightnurse Member Posts: 2,217
    They are avaialbe right now, I have 07 Versa 1.8 SL with the CVT. The dealer I got mine from had 3, one base but with a 6 spd, 2 SL's with CVT. The dealer told me that they ordered most of the base Versa w/the 6 sd. I'm sure you well be able to get one with the CVT, ask your dealer what they are due to get in...

    Tony :shades:
  • mschmalmschmal Member Posts: 1,757
    This forum is screwed up. You are all arguing Fit vs. Yaris vs. Versa.

    TO me thats like trying to decide between which of the three recent playboy playmates would be best to take on a date.

    Or which college you should choose: Harvard Yale or Princeton...(Stanford Berkley or UCLA for you west coasters)

    If you have actual in car experience you would like to share please feel free.

    If you have questions, please ask them.

    If you have never sat in either the Fit Versa or Yaris and just want to spout mindless unoriginal opinions based on "information" you read somewhere I suggest you think twice about it and maybe consider getting a hobby.
  • moparbadmoparbad Member Posts: 3,870
    You are ranting in the wrong topic. Rant hereYaris/Fit/Versa

    Also, what relevant point were you attempting to make regarding the Versa?
  • jbmeehanjbmeehan Member Posts: 5
    I know the SL model is available with the CVT trans right now. What I can not get is an accurate answer from any of our Nissan dealers in my area when the CVT trans will be available on the base Versa. One dealer said September but who knows if that is correct.
  • cjshowcjshow Member Posts: 16
    From what I understand from all I've read about the versa: The base model, or "S" trim is available in a 6-speed manual OR a 4-speed traditional automatic, with "late availability" (the same wording was used for the upcoming sedan version, which I've heard will arrive in either late fall or January). The upper trim level, the "SL" comes with either the 6-speed manual or the CVT. Therefore the CVT is only available on the "SL" trim, not the base "S" trim level. I strongly suggest you go to nissan's website and build your own using the "S" trim to confirm what transmissions are available. Don't count on dealers knowing anything. The ones I've talked with barely knew what the Versa was; and the Honda dealers weren't any better (didn't even know the Fit was 5 years old and was called Jazz in other markets).
  • flightnurseflightnurse Member Posts: 2,217
    well I have read in may magizines is there is a shortage of CVT transmissions so Nissan will use a 4 spd unit in some cars for a while. So maybe the Dealer might now alittle more then we all think.

    Tony :shades:
  • flightnurseflightnurse Member Posts: 2,217
    mschmal you are completely wrong regarding the FIT, YARIS and VERSA. In the automoblie world they are all concendered "entry level" cars from there manufacture, so you HAVE to compare them. IF someone wants the least expensive car then, they are the 3 thatyou compare. Just because the manufacture markets them differently doesn't mean "WE" are consumers are wrong.

    Since I'm the only one in this Forum (currently) who has a Versa, and has looked at all three, then what I write is not "mindless unoriginal Opioins".

    Tony :shades:
  • 719b719b Member Posts: 216
    i've been following this forum for a few months and i think everyone missed smchmal's point... or maybe i did?
    if i understand his point, he wasn't referring to you or anyone giving a review of their experiences in any of the entry level cars.
    he seems to object to the people that are comparing the three cars(yaris, fit, versa) and didn't drive any or all of them. they are using "expert" opinions for their arguments as to which car is better.
    if this was his point, i agree... it is mindless.
  • backybacky Member Posts: 18,949
    Are you saying then that these discussions about new cars shouldn't start until the cars are widely available for people to drive?
  • 719b719b Member Posts: 216
    not at all. it think half the fun when in the market for a car is research and getting input from drivers that have experience in one or more of the cars you're looking at.
    what i find pointless is when two people argue endlessly about cars they only have read about. neither of them have done a driving comparison, yet they seem to think they can talk about the subject with authority.
    talking about the features you like in an upcoming model makes sense, but to say one is better than the other is ridiculous.
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