The Versa is Nissan's entry-level car with the intention of attracting economy-minded buyers with its mileage, price and larger size than most other vehicles in its class.

The Versa is available as a hatchback or sedan, with two four-cylinder engine choices on the sedan, a 107-hp 1.6-liter or a 122-hp 1.8-liter, while the hatchback is available exclusively with the 1.8. The 1.6 is can be equipped with either a five-speed manual, or four-speed automatic transmission, the 1.8 gets a six-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. The 1.8SL hatchback offers an optional Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) rather than the four-speed auto. Safety comes from six standard airbags, active head restraints, tire pressure monitoring, anti-lock brakes (optional on 1.6, standard on 1.8S and SL) and electronic stability control (optional on 1.8S, standard on 1.8SL).

For 2011, the 1.8S sedan adds an in-dash 6-CD changer to standard, and 1.6 trims with AC are now standard with the ABS package.