There are plenty of great vehicles on the market that tend to get overlooked in favor of more flashy cars. This is the case for the Nissan Versa. For years, consumers have avoided it in favor of other choices, but now things are changing, and people have finally realized that the Versa should be on their wish list if they want a cheap, but very reliable vehicle.

Numbers are up for the Nissan Versa

Nissan has released the sales data for the second quarter of 2023, and it’s showing improvement in all areas. In fact, it’s had an increase of 33.4% in the 2023-second quarter sales over 2022. Each of its vehicles saw growth in terms of how many cars were sold, and three have grown over 100%.

The Versa saw the most growth, with an increase of 115.8%. This just proves that people are finally taking notice of the Versa. But why has it suddenly become so popular, and why did no one take note of it before?

Why has this car flown under the radar?

There are several reasons why consumers don’t buy the Versa. For one, the Versa has developed a bit of a reputation for being underpowered. This is true for the 2023 model, as it comes with a 1.6-liter inline-four engine that only generates 122 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque.

Given that the Versa is the cheapest vehicle in the Nissan lineup, no one is exactly expecting much from it. At the same time, buyers can invest the money they’d spend on the Versa into a used vehicle, or better yet, save up a little more money for one of the Versa’s competitors like the Kia Rio or the Forte.

Another reason why people may not pick the Versa is the interior and lack of comfort. Again, these are largely due to the cost. It doesn’t make sense for Nissan to invest a ton of money into a vehicle that is bringing in less than $17,000. 

Edmunds went on to criticize the Versa’s lack of interior storage for small items. This probably won’t be a dealbreaker for most shoppers, however, which is why the sales numbers are increasing so fast.

Consumers are finally seeing the value of the Nissan Versa 

It’s true that the Versa has its flaws. But Edmunds thinks there are more reasons to recommend the Versa than to avoid it.

The most obvious is the price. The 2023 Nissan Versa has an MSRP of $16,925 for the S trim. The SV costs $20,215, and the SR costs $20,915. This makes the Versa the cheapest car in the U.S. Because of this, many buyers who want a new car are turning to the Versa. 

There’s also the fact that many used vehicles cost so much, it can be hard to determine if it’s better to invest in something used when it could potentially cost more than a brand-new vehicle with no mileage. Many shoppers are turning to the Versa because of its reputation for reliability and the warranty that comes with it.

Edmunds goes on to point out that there is plenty of cargo space in spite of the lack of storage for smaller items. Another improvement is the fuel economy. It now gets 35 mpg combined, which further helps drivers save money.

The 7.0″ infotainment system is also user-friendly and has a USB connection. You won’t get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the S trim, but you do get a lane departure warning accident avoidance system, and pre-collision safety system.

Given all this, it’s clear why shoppers are now taking a second look at the Versa, and giving it a chance.