In this 2025 Nissan Versa review, we analyze trims (S, SV, SR), performance and mpg, interior comfort, pros and cons, and real owner feedback. You’ll get clear answers on whether the 2025 Nissan Versa fits your driving style—and how it stacks up among budget sedans in 2025.
Let’s cut to the chase: for buyers hunting a reliable, fuel-efficient, and tech-friendly subcompact sedan without breaking the bank, the 2025 Nissan Versa reviews are full of mixed praise—and a few caveats worth knowing.
With rising prices elsewhere and SUV fatigue setting in, the Versa remains one of the few new sedans under $22,000. But what does it deliver in real life?
In this article, I’ll walk you through the range of 2025 Nissan Versa reviews, dive deep into trim-by-trim performance (S, SV, SR), cover interior and mpg details, compare it with alternatives, and share pro tips you won’t find in spec sheets.
The automotive landscape is shifting: many cheap sedans have been discontinued, leaving the Versa in a rare niche. MotorTrend calls it “the last subcompact sedan” still offered new.
Meanwhile, U.S. News ranks the 2025 Versa No. 1 in Subcompact Cars thanks to its value-oriented package.
Consumer feedback is mostly positive: Kelley Blue Book reports 80% of owners would recommend it, rating styling and value highest. Still, those same reviews often note the engine’s lack of punch and mixed ride comfort.
If your priority is maximizing features per dollar with excellent fuel economy, the 2025 Nissan Versa reviews suggest it remains one of the most compelling options in its class.
| Spec | Value | Source / Notes |
| Engine | 1.6-L I4, 122 hp, 114 lb-ft | (MotorTrend) |
| Transmission options | 5-speed manual (base S), CVT (standard on SV/SR, optional on S) | (MotorTrend) |
| Fuel economy (city / highway / combined) | 27 / 35 mpg (manual) • 32 / 40 mpg (CVT) • ~35 combined | (MotorTrend) |
| Trunk / cargo space | 14.7–15.0 cu ft | (U.S. News Cars) |
| Safety / features | 5-star NHTSA, standard driver assist features; LED headlights standard 2025 | (U.S. News Cars) |
| Price range | $17,190 to $21,190 | (U.S. News Cars) |
These specs underscore how 2025 Nissan Versa reviews consistently praise the balance of efficiency and features—but also flag the tradeoffs (slow acceleration, basic suspension).
Let’s parse through the trim levels to understand how the 2025 Nissan Versa SV, 2025 Nissan Versa 1.6 SR, and base S differ in real life.
If your budget allows it, reviewers often recommend skipping S and heading straight to the SV or SR to avoid regrets over missing features.
Power & Acceleration
The 2025 Nissan Versa reviews uniformly caution: don’t expect sporty performance. The 1.6-L naturally aspirated engine with 122 hp isn’t built for thrills.
MotorTrend timed 0–60 mph in ~10 seconds on the SR, emphasizing that it’s adequate for highway merging, not spirited driving.
The CVT smooths out power delivery and helps efficiency; the manual (where still available) gives a more “connected feel” but with modest gains.
During my test drive of the SR model, the acceleration felt exactly as advertised: perfectly adequate for city driving but requiring some planning for highway overtakes. When you press the accelerator hard, the engine sound is a noticeable, somewhat buzzy drone—typical for a small engine paired with a CVT. It’s not an inspiring sound, but it gets the job done. Visibility is a strong point; the A-pillars are relatively thin, and the large windows provide a clear view, which is a huge plus for navigating tight parking spots or crowded streets.
Expect comfort for everyday commuting. The small size and tight turning radius make it agile in city traffic. U.S. News highlights its “composed handling” for urban driving. That said, on rough roads or at higher speeds, some reviewers note body roll and a bit of vibration.
Steering is accurate enough though not highly communicative (a bit numb). Noise insulation is decent, but highway wind and tire noise are noticeable in the base trims.
One of the 2025 Nissan Versa reviews’ strongest selling points is fuel savings.
These figures put the Versa ahead of many subcompact SUVs—if your driving profile includes a lot of highway miles, the CVT version becomes especially appealing.
In many 2025 Nissan Versa reviews, the interior gets praise for being surprisingly refined for its price. Even in base trims, the layout is clean and functional, with intuitive controls.
Soft-touch surfaces are limited, and hard plastics remain in lower zones. But for this segment, that’s expected. Higher trims (SV, SR) bring upgraded cloth, faux-leather trim, and more upscale finishes.
If you’re frequently carrying cargo or longer items, the folding rear seats in SV and SR trims are a useful touch.
One of the more intriguing options (at least historically) was the 2025 Nissan Versa S with a manual transmission. For purists, shifting your own gears brings intimacy and control. It also allows slightly better engagement at the cost of convenience.
But there’s a twist: the manual may be disappearing. Some reports indicate that the 5-speed manual transmission is being discontinued in U.S. production for 2025. That means the 2025 Nissan Versa manual transmission option might vanish entirely—or become very limited.
If you’re in a market where it’s still offered, it gives a fun entry-level experience. But the tradeoffs are lower comfort, slower highway performance, and eventual rarity.
In reviews, manual drivers tend to say: it’s charming, but not practical for highway cruising or heavy traffic. If your commute is largely city-based and you enjoy the mechanical feel, it could suit you—but don’t expect performance thrills.
When evaluating 2025 Nissan Versa reviews, it’s worth placing it side-by-side with alternatives.
When you consider total cost of ownership (fuel, insurances, maintenance), the Versa often competes better than many “upscale” compacts.
Best fit:
Not a great fit:
To test its city credentials, I took the Versa (Almera equivalent) on a typical afternoon run from Gulshan to Dhanmondi. In Dhaka’s infamous stop-and-go traffic, the CVT was a blessing, providing smooth, jerk-free acceleration from a standstill.
Its compact size and excellent turning radius made navigating tight gaps between rickshaws and buses surprisingly easy. The air conditioning held up well against the heat and humidity, keeping the cabin cool.
This is where the Versa shines—as a comfortable, easy-to-manage urban commuter, it makes a very strong case for itself.
Early owner reviews indicate strong reliability. Kelley Blue Book reports a reliability rating of ~4.2/5.
In city driving, manual trims get around 27 mpg; CVT versions are rated ~32 mpg city.
Many reviewers and owners say yes—these trims include essential features (Apple CarPlay, safety sensors) that enhance long-term satisfaction and resale.
In some markets, yes—though reports suggest the manual version is being phased out.
Thanks to its strong mpg ratings, its fuel and maintenance costs often beat small SUVs over 5–7 year ownership, making it among the most economical choices.
For a budget sedan, it punches above average. Lower trims use hard plastics, but layout and ergonomics are well executed. Higher trims improve finishes and materials noticeably.
Walking away from all the specs and opinions, here’s what I believe: if your priorities are affordability, fuel efficiency, and a no-nonsense daily ride, the 2025 Nissan Versa is one of the few new cars that still delivers that mix in 2025. It’s not perfect, but it does a lot more than many expect—especially considering rising car costs elsewhere.
I lean toward the SV trim: it hits balance without overreaching. If your budget stretches, the SR is a worthy splurge. And if you’re lucky enough to find a manual in your region, give it a spin—it may speak to your driving soul, even as it becomes rarer.
Ultimately, the best car is the one you’ll enjoy driving day in and day out. The 2025 Nissan Versa reviews paint it as a humble workhorse—and for many drivers, that’s exactly what counts.
“A car doesn’t need blazing speed to win your loyalty—just reliability, economy, and comfort you’ll feel every mile.”
Jake Harlan is a seasoned automotive journalist with over 10 years of experience. From family SUVs to high-performance sports cars, he delivers accurate, unbiased reviews and practical insights trusted by enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
The 2025 Buick Envista Avenir blends compact efficiency with upscale touches: a turbocharged 1.2L engine…
Read More