2023 Nissan Versa SR First Drive: It’s Not Fancy, But It’s Functional
Let’s face it, the 2023 Nissan Versa is not the fanciest car in the market, but there’s a reason it’s been around since 2007. Now in its third generation, the Versa remains one of the most affordable cars you can buy, and its undeniable value makes it worth it. In fact, I think the Versa is worth every penny in its highest SR trim level. Let me show you why.
The 2023 Nissan Versa SR has everything you need and nothing you don’t
Sure, the 2023 Nissan Versa might be a simple car without any frills, but it’s functional. My tester for the week is the highest SR trim level, which comes with all of the driver-assist features. Some of the most notable features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot alert. There are even heated front seats.
My test car even came with front and rear parking sensors and a rear cross-traffic alert, which was surprising, given the car’s $22,000 price point. As for infotainment, the Versa SR has an 8-inch touchscreen that’s easy to navigate, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Bluetooth and satellite radio are also standard.
The Versa also has power locks and windows as well as a remote start feature for hot days and cold mornings. Overall, the Nissan Versa SR has nearly everything you would find in a luxury car but in a simpler and less expensive package. Like I said, it’s functional.
There’s not much power to speak of
My only gripe with the Nissan Versa is its lack of power. Under the hood is a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque. I have to add that I’m driving this car around at a mile-high elevation, which slows it down quite a bit due to the thin air.
That said, it’s pretty pokey around town. I find myself having to floor the accelerator to get anywhere somewhat quickly. I’m pretty sure it takes a few business days to get to 60 mph, but it moves fine nonetheless. Surprisingly, it still feels quicker than any Toyota CH-R I have tested.
The Versa isn’t pretty, but it’s practical
When it comes to the Nissan Versa’s looks, I’ll admit that it’s somewhat bland. Nissan gave it a facelift for the 2023 model year. And while it does have some bold features like its broad fenders and stylish 17-inch wheels, the Versa is still the vanilla milkshake of compact sedans. It’s appetizing enough to get one, but you might not crave it for its looks alone.
It’s cheap, but the 2023 Nissan Versa has some redeeming qualities
Ultimately, it’s hard to argue with the 2023 Nissan Versa’s starting price point of $15,900. As I stated before, the highest SR trim level pumps that price up to around $22,000, but I think it’s worth getting. All of the features the Versa SR comes with make it worth the extra cash, and while it’s not as luxurious as some cars on the market, it’ll do what you need it to do just fine.
