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It’s easy to dismiss a budget-minded compact sedan like the 2023 Nissan Versa, but the car is worth some consideration. Sure, it may be one of the cheapest examples in the new car market, but that doesn’t mean the Versa is poor quality or cheap. We spent some time in the top-trim Versa SR model and came away impressed with everything it had to offer. Check out these reasons the Nissan Versa is worth your money.

1. The 2023 Nissan Versa comes with many standard safety features

The blind spot indicator on the 2023 Nissan Versa
2023 Nissan Versa | Nissan

Automotive safety features have come a long way in the past decade, but many are only available on high-end cars – until now. The 2023 Nissan Versa comes standard with important safety features like auto high beam assist, a lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.

That’s impressive, but what’s even more impressive is the roster of safety stuff our Versa SR tester came with. The most notable features include a blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and front and rear parking sensors. There’s even a driver alertness monitor!

2. The Nissan Versa is comfortable enough for your daily commute

The front seats in the 2023 Nissan Versa
2023 Nissan Versa | Nissan

Although the Nissan Versa doesn’t cost much, that doesn’t mean it’s uncomfortable to drive. Our tester came with six-way adjustable cloth seats that easily adjust to our frames and preferred driving positions. The cabin itself is spacious, with plenty of head and legroom upfront. However, the rear seat area could be slightly cramped for tall passengers. Additionally, the front seats are heated for those cold days.

3. The Versa comes equipped with a decent sound system

The 8-inch infotainment system in the 2023 Nissan Versa
2023 Nissan Versa | Nissan

We’re pseudo-audiophiles and love a good sound system. Admittedly, the six-speaker system in the Nissan Versa SR won’t knock anyone’s socks off, but it’s decent for what it is. The main draw is the Versa’s eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is easy to navigate. There are even hard buttons on the sides of the screen to get to the different functions more easily.

4. The Versa isn’t quick, but it’s super fuel-efficient

A side view of the 2023 Nissan Versa
2023 Nissan Versa | Nissan

There’s a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine under the hood of every Nissan Versa. It only puts out 122 hp, which equates to 0-60 mph times in the 10-second range. That’s pretty slow, which means that timing merges is necessary.

As you can imagine, its weak motor means the Versa isn’t made for performance. Instead, it’s made for efficiency. We averaged 30.1 mpg during our time with the Versa, but the EPA says it can average between 32 and 40 mpg, depending on the environment it’s driven in.

5. The Nissan Versa will fit nearly anyone’s budget

The SR badge on the 2023 Nissan Versa
2023 Nissan Versa | Nissan

We live in a time when $30,000 compact cars are the norm. However, the 2023 Nissan Versa has a starting price of around $15,000 and goes up to $22,000 when fully loaded. Considering every it comes with, we would say the Versa is worth every penny you have to throw at it, no matter what your budget is.

The 2023 Nissan Versa has what you need

If you’re looking for a commuter car that won’t break the bank and want something worth the money, the 2023 Nissan Versa is worth a look. It may not be fancy, but it has everything you need and nothing you don’t.