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2011 Nissan Versa Review: Good Year For The Affordable and Dependable Used Car

Rating: 4.36
Based on 65 Owner Reviews
Drew B | March 31, 2025
The 2011 Nissan Versa, part of the model's first generation, offered a practical and affordable entry into the subcompact car market. Available as a sedan and hatchback, it was known for its surprisingly spacious interior. Key trims included the base 1.6, S, and SL. Pricing ranged approximately from $10,000 to $16,000 when new. Its high fuel efficiency and roomy cabin for its class contributed to its popularity among budget-conscious buyers and those prioritizing practicality over style or performance.
The Good

The 2011 Nissan Versa's primary advantage was its exceptional fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers seeking affordability. Its spacious interior, especially in the hatchback, offered surprising comfort for its class. While not exciting, its reliability was generally considered adequate. Emotionally, the Versa offered peace of mind through low running costs, and it offered a new car ownership experience for very little.

The Bad

The 2011 Nissan Versa suffered from a somewhat unrefined engine, resulting in sluggish acceleration. The interior materials felt cheap, and the design was rather bland. The continuously variable transmission (CVT), if equipped, could be a potential source of problems. Rust in areas that use salt is a concern on older models. Overall, the driving experience was unremarkable.

2011 Nissan Versa: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 1.6-liter inline-4 (base 1.6 model): Approximately 107 horsepower
    • 1.8-liter inline-4 (S, SL models): Approximately 122 horsepower
  • Horsepower:
    • 1.6L: 107 hp
    • 1.8L: 122 hp
  • Fuel Economy:
    • 1.6L (manual): Estimated 26 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
    • 1.8L (CVT): Estimated 28 mpg city / 34 mpg highway
    • 1.8L (manual): Estimated 26 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 1.8L: Around 9.5-10 seconds (may vary depending on transmission)
    • 1.6L: Over 11 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not applicable; the Versa is not designed for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • 1.6 Base: Basic features including air conditioning, manual windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
    • S: Adds features like power windows and locks, upgraded audio system, and available CVT transmission.
    • SL: Top trim included alloy wheels, cruise control, keyless entry, upgraded interior trim, and available technology packages (e.g., navigation). It might have included an optional Convenience Package with features like Bluetooth connectivity and an upgraded audio system. Fog lights were typically only included on the SL trim.

2011 Nissan Versa Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2011
Make Nissan
Model Versa
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
Category Mid-Size Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Mexico
Manufacturing City AGUASCALIENTES CITY
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 1170.72 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height 153.42 cm
Overall Length 447.04 cm
Overall Width 169.42 cm
Wheelbase Length 260.1 cm
Standard Seating 5
Engine & Performance
Engine 1.6-L L-4 DOHC 16V
Engine Size 1.6L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission 5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Manual
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $9,990 USD
Invoice Price $9,759 USD
Delivery Charges $760 USD

Vehicle History Report

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NMVTIS Title
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2011 Nissan Versa Have?

The 2011 Nissan Versa had some frequently reported problems. The CVT transmission, particularly in models with the 1.8L engine, was a common source of complaints, with owners reporting slipping, shuddering, or complete failure. Check engine lights related to the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors were also common. Some owners reported issues with the ignition system and fuel pump. Premature brake wear was another concern.
Regarding recalls, it's important to check the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) website for any specific recalls affecting the 2011 Versa, as recall campaigns can change. Long-term reliability concerns revolve primarily around the CVT transmission and potential rust issues, especially in areas where road salt is used extensively. Early model years of the first generation Versa (including 2011) were more prone to experiencing these issues compared to later model years where Nissan may have made improvements. Regular maintenance, particularly transmission fluid changes for CVT models, can help mitigate some of these risks.

How long will the 2011 Nissan Versa last?

With reasonable maintenance, a 2011 Nissan Versa could potentially reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. Years of service can vary widely, but many well-maintained examples can last 10-15 years.
Long-term durability hinges on addressing potential CVT issues (if equipped) with regular fluid changes and avoiding harsh driving. Rust prevention is also crucial, especially in colder climates. Weaknesses over time primarily include wear and tear on suspension components, potential electrical issues related to aging wiring, and continued vulnerability of the CVT. Engine issues are less frequent if standard maintenance is performed.
Positive Owner Reviews
SD
Pretty good little car. Limited room interior expected but room to put lots of bags etc in. Ignition went out 40k mlies expensive to repair several hundred bucks and key 150 dollars. One key. Wish passenger door had lock but only get one lock for key on entire car that is driver side. All in all good car .Air bag recall never have done yet dealer to far away.
CD
This car is very reliable. Its good on gas. Small on outside so easy to Park and its nice and room on inside. I love the colors both interior/exterior.
mark abdelmessih
This si a car that has the best of both worlds, its a hatchback that's high off the ground and can go practically anywhere. The car is spacious and the trunk fits practically anything!
Negative Owner Reviews
Rae
This car was kind of a panic purchase after my 1996 toyota was crashed into. That being said, I wish I had explored my other options. This car is cheap and gets you from A to B but it's exterior is falling apart and the interior is not the most comfortable. My door handles are loose, the bumpers are duct taped and it constantly has brake problems. However it keeps going so it isn't that bad! She tries her best.
Erikeh
I've had my Nissan now for 1.5 years. I love the look of it, very comfortable to drive. I am not a fan of the mechanics. It takes some time to accelerate when going up hill or when merging on the freeway- it would be a good car for new drivers because it is slower. I am having issues with my drivers window and it's very inconvenient. I have to pay $250 for a new window motor. The Nissan dealer is the only place that sells the window motors that fit. A car that is 4 years old should not be needing a new window motor.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2011 Nissan Versa offered relatively basic tech and safety features for its time. Standard features typically included an AM/FM radio and a CD player. Higher trims (like the SL) might have included features such as keyless entry, cruise control, and upgraded audio systems.
Optional features were limited, but some models offered Bluetooth connectivity or a navigation system as part of an upgrade package.
Driver-assistance features were minimal, with standard features like anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). Stability control was an optional feature.
Regarding safety, the 2011 Versa came with standard front airbags, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA should be consulted for specific scores. Note that the Versa's crash test performance was not always stellar, and later models often had better ratings due to advancements in safety technology and testing standards. It's important to check the specific ratings for the 2011 model year on the respective organization's websites.
Overall, the 2011 Versa prioritized affordability over advanced technology and driver-assistance features.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Super Black
Brilliant Silver Metallic
Red Brick
Metallic Blue
Graphite Blue Metallic
White
Interior Colors
Sandstone
Charcoal

2011 Nissan Versa Prices and Market Value

The 2011 Nissan Versa had a starting price around $10,000 to $16,000 when new, depending on the trim and options. As of today, used market prices can range significantly based on condition, mileage, and location. Expect prices anywhere from $3,000 to $7,000 or potentially even less for examples with high mileage or significant wear.
The Versa depreciated considerably over time, as expected for an economy car. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, maintenance history, and whether it's a sedan or hatchback (hatchbacks often hold value slightly better). Demand for fuel-efficient cars can also influence resale prices.

2011 Nissan Versa Cost of Ownership

The 2011 Nissan Versa is generally an economical car to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its safety record and value. Fuel economy is a strong point, contributing to lower running costs. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, is relatively affordable. However, potential CVT transmission repairs can be expensive. Overall, the Versa's low initial cost and good fuel economy make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers, but careful attention should be paid to the transmission's health.

2011 Nissan Versa Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 49.97 liters
City Mileage 11.05 km/l
Highway Mileage 14.46 km/l

2011 Nissan Versa Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2011 Nissan Versa Recalls & Defects

Suspension:front:springs:coil Springs
Recall date 2015-09-14
Recall no. 15v573000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan (Nissan North America, Inc.) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2007-2012 Nissan Versa Vehicles Manufactured MAY 8, 2006, TO November 12, 2012, That Were Sold or Ever Registered IN THE District OF Columbia, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia and Wisconsin. Road Salt MAY Corrode THE Front Coil Springs, Possibly Resulting IN THE Coil Springs Fracturing.
Consequence IF A Front Coil Spring Fractures, IT MAY Contact THE Tire, Possibly Puncturing IT, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace Both Front Coil Springs, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON February 2, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2016-05-24
Recall no. 16v349000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2008 Infiniti Fx35 and Fx45, 2003-2004 Infiniti I35, 2006-2010 Infiniti M35 and M45, and 2007-2011 Nissan Versa Vehicles, Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands, or "zone A." Additionally, Unless Included IN "zone A" Above, Nissan IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2008 Infiniti Fx35 and Fx45, 2003-2004 Infiniti I35, 2006-2008 Infiniti M35 and M45, and 2007-2008 Nissan Versa Vehicles, Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "zone B." Lastly, Unless Included IN "zone A" or "zone B" Above, Nissan IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2003-2004 Infiniti I35 Vehicles Originally Sold, or Registered, IN Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules, and Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. These Inflators MAY Rupture DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began December 21, 2017. All Owners Should Receive A Second Notice BY MAY 15, 2017. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2017-07-17
Recall no. 17v449000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain 2007-2011 Versa Sedan and 2007-2012 Versa Hatchback Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles Have A Driver Frontal AIR BAG Inflator That MAY Rupture DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Moderate Absolute Humidity, Temperatures, and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Rupture MAY Result IN Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Subject Inflator With A NEW ONE Manufactured BY A Different Supplier, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON March 9, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2018-06-15
Recall no. 18v401000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain 2011 Nissan Versa Sedan Vehicles and 2011-2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Nissan IS Also Recalling 2010-2011 Nissan Versa Sedan Vehicles and 2010-2012 Nissan Versa Hatchback Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Ever Registered IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Passenger AIR BAG Inflator MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began July 5, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 1-800-867-7669.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2018-01-10
Recall no. 18v044000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain 2009-2012 Versa Hatchback, and 2009-2011 Versa Sedan Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, THE Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and THE U.s. Virgin Islands or "zone A." Additionally, Nissan IS Recalling Certain 2009-2010 Versa Hatchback, and Versa Sedan Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, NEW Jersey, NEW Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "zone B." Nissan IS Also Recalling Certain 2009 Versa Hatchback and Versa Sedan Vehicles Ever Registered IN THE States OF Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, NEW Hampshire, NEW York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "zone C." IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Passenger AIR BAG Inflator MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO Absolute Humidity and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began March 9, 2018. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 1-800-647-7261.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2020-01-09
Recall no. 20v008000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, 2002-2004 Pathfinder, 2007-2011 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback, 2001-2004 Infiniti I30 and I35, 2002-2003 Inifiniti Qx4, 2003-2008 Infiniti Fx35 and Fx45 and 2006-2010 M35 and M45 Vehicles. THE Vehicles ARE Equipped With Non-desiccated, Frontal Passenger AIR BAG Inflators Containing Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (Psan) Propellant That Were Used AS Interim Remedy Parts FOR Previous Takata Recalls. These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, High Temperatures, and High Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Nissan Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflators With Alternate Desiccated Inflators, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 12, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Nissan Customer Service AT 888-737-9511 or Infiniti Customer Service AT 888-810-3715.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2022-08-09
Recall no. 22e066000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain AIR BAG Inflator Replacement Service Parts That MAY Have Been Installed AS Part OF A Theft or Collision Repair. THE Parts Include Certain Passenger-Side AIR BAG Inflators Designed TO FIT Infiniti 2002-2003 Qx4, 2006-2010 M35 and M45; Nissan 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, and Both Driver and Passenger-side Inflators Designed TO FIT 2007-2012 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback Vehicles. Please SEE Nissan's Recall Report FOR THE Specific Part Numbers. These Replacement Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Inflators AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed September 14, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Nissan's Customer Service AT 1-800-867-7669.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2022-08-09
Recall no. 22e066000
Source NHTSA
Summary Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) IS Recalling Certain AIR BAG Inflator Replacement Service Parts That MAY Have Been Installed AS Part OF A Theft or Collision Repair. THE Parts Include Certain Passenger-Side AIR BAG Inflators Designed TO FIT Infiniti 2002-2003 Qx4, 2006-2010 M35 and M45; Nissan 2001-2003 Maxima, 2002-2006 Sentra, and Both Driver and Passenger-side Inflators Designed TO FIT 2007-2012 Versa Sedan and Versa Hatchback Vehicles. Please SEE Nissan's Recall Report FOR THE Specific Part Numbers. These Replacement Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation Occurring After Long-term Exposure TO High Absolute Humidity, Temperature and Temperature Cycling.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Inflators AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters ARE Expected TO BE Mailed September 14, 2022. Owners MAY Contact Nissan's Customer Service AT 1-800-867-7669.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2011 Nissan Versa Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2011 Nissan Versa Insurance

Insurance for a 2011 Nissan Versa is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2011 Nissan Versa Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2011 Nissan Versa competed against cars like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta, and Hyundai Accent. In terms of performance, the Versa lagged behind the Fit and Fiesta, which offered more engaging driving experiences. Feature-wise, it was generally comparable to the Yaris but lacked some of the more modern tech found in the Fiesta or Accent. Reliability was a mixed bag; while the Versa could be reliable, the CVT transmission was a known weak point, potentially making the Toyota Yaris a safer bet for long-term reliability.
Price-wise, the Versa was often one of the most affordable options, which was its main selling point. Alternatives like the Honda Fit offered better cargo space and driving dynamics, albeit at a higher price. The Hyundai Accent provided more features for the money.
If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Yaris is a better alternative. If you want a more enjoyable driving experience, consider the Honda Fit or Ford Fiesta. However, if your primary concern is finding the absolute cheapest new or used car, the Versa might still be a viable option, provided you're aware of its potential weaknesses.

Ranks #1140 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
1140 2011 Nissan Versa (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Nissan Versa a Good Sedan?

The 2011 Nissan Versa is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking basic transportation with good fuel economy and a spacious interior for its class. Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on the price and condition. It's best suited as a used car purchase due to its age and depreciation.
If considering a purchase, carefully inspect the car for any signs of CVT transmission problems (slipping, shuddering) and rust. A manual transmission model avoids the CVT issue altogether. The SL trim offers some desirable features, but the S trim might be a better value. Overall, the 2011 Versa can be a decent choice if affordability is the top priority and you're willing to accept its limitations.

2011 Nissan Versa Owner Reviews

4.36
Consumer Rating, Based on 65 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Jay on May 29, 2024

My wife has the 2011 Versa S hatchback.

My wife has the 2011 Versa S hatchback. She had had it since 2012, it is now 2024 and she has 135,000 miles on it. It has been very solid overall with basically the regular type maintenance things: brakes, oil changes, tires. It does however go through mufflers every 3 years about. And they did one engine mount that was worn out. She does have the check engine light on currently but its probably due for spark plugs. Now the engine is a bit slower to respond to hills or when trying to pass thanbit was 12 years ago, but overall it still has enough zip. Being the S it has The auto door locks on the key fob and there is auto windows inside. Fold down the rear seats and it easliy can hold whatever we pick up from the hardware store. It has a smooth ride and most of the bumps in the road are absorbed by the suspension. Some of the paint has been peeling around the trunk and the passenger sun visor broke off, but these are minor trivialities. I have confidence she can get to 150,000 miles and at least another 3 years our of it.

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SD on September 8, 2022

Dependable drive

Pretty good little car. Limited room interior expected but room to put lots of bags etc in. Ignition went out 40k mlies expensive to repair several hundred bucks and key 150 dollars. One key. Wish passenger door had lock but only get one lock for key on entire car that is driver side. All in all good car .Air bag recall never have done yet dealer to far away.

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AmeliaJ37 on March 17, 2020

Fuel Efficient

This car is the most reliable car I have ever owned! It only takes about $30 to fill the tank from empty to full, and would last me about a week and a half

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Reror on February 18, 2020

Nissans hatchback 2011 is the best compact !!

I bought the car for my wife! Lots of room! Great mechanical.. Very impressed!!!... Rory Buck.... Port Angeles, Wa. In my life I have been a traveling salesperson. Went through many cars! This is simply one of my favorite cars.

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gunslinger on November 21, 2019

very reliable best car ive ever owned

fabulous would buy again if I could bought new ive only had one issue alternator failed on 120000 miles and I repaired myself easy to work on

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Rae on September 1, 2019

It's okay for now.

This car was kind of a panic purchase after my 1996 toyota was crashed into. That being said, I wish I had explored my other options. This car is cheap and gets you from A to B but it's exterior is falling apart and the interior is not the most comfortable. My door handles are loose, the bumpers are duct taped and it constantly has brake problems. However it keeps going so it isn't that bad! She tries her best.

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NJVersa on April 13, 2019

Reliable Mechanically, but Peeling Paint costing $

For a budget car, I have been very happy with my Versa since buying it in 2012, however, last year I started to notice the clear coat on the paint peeling off on the roof. In the past year, the roof has peeled and chipped to the point that I have to get it repainted along with a side panel over the front passenger tire that is also peeling and cracking. I'm contacting Nissan, but not holding my breath for them to reimburse me the 1,500 it will take to get this is decent shape again (until the other panels start peeling).

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Codester2580 on January 5, 2019

Comfortable Drive love the CVT Transmission

Lots of room compared to a sedan. Very reliable and dependable. Navigation system is a lifesaver. Easy on gas. Very quite vehical with a lot of power.

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Michaelton1968 on November 17, 2018

What a good little car!!

I own a 2011 Versa sedan with the 1.8 l engine 4 speed automatic..I bought it used in 2015 with 40k onthe odometer.It has just turned over 100k.l have had absolutely no problems with this car.It is the most reliable car I have ever owned.My first Nissan.I will never buy any other make of car.Great car Nissan .You have a cusomer for life.

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Ms Roc on October 18, 2018

Good car for small family, Exterior too low.

Good Car for a small family, front end hits everything and passenger side door handle breaks and pulls apart. I watch some Youtube videos and it seems like this happens often.

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Drew B

Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma