2021 Nissan Versa
Used

Review and specifications

2021 Nissan Versa

Although it's more stylish with the 2020 redesign, the Versa continues to be a basic, inexpensive subcompact. Available as a sedan only, we found it easy to drive and user-friendly. Unlike most of its competitors, it comes with standard key advanced safety features, like automatic emergency braking. But the Versa is no joy to drive, with its stiff ride, dull handling, and droning engine. Fuel economy is good at 32 mpg overall, but some midsized sedans--let alone compact ones--can match or better that. The driver's seat is short on support, and unlike previous Versas, the rear seat is tight. A more substantial used car can be had at the same price, but those who consider the Versa should get the SV version for its blind spot warning and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The Versa received a refresh in 2023 with updated styling. 2025 versions received standard LED headlights on all trims. It is also the final year for the Versa.

Market value
$10,263
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Manual
Seats
5
Model year 2021
Owner rating 3/5
Reliability Not rated
Data updated June 4, 2026

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
sedan
Drive type
FWD
Transmission
Manual, 5-speed
Category
Small sedans/hatchbacks
Generation began
2020

Pricing

Current retail median
$10,263
Retail value range
$9,275 - $12,200
Original MSRP range
$14,980 - $18,390
Trade-in range
$6,095 - $8,840

Ratings

Road test score
63/100
Owner satisfaction
3/5
Would buy again
44%

Fuel economy

EPA city
32 MPG
EPA highway
40 MPG
EPA combined
35 MPG
Tested city
22 MPG
Tested highway
45 MPG
Tested overall
32 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$1,215
Cruising range
345 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.7 sec
0-60 mph
9.6 sec
60-0 mph braking
130 ft
Avoidance speed
52.5 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
177 in
Width
69 in
Height
57 in
Wheelbase
103 in
Weight
2,670 lb
Maximum load
840 lb
Towing capacity
0 lb

Interior

Seating
5 people
Front head room
4.5 in
Front leg room
41.5 in
Rear head room
1.5 in
Rear leg room
27 in
Luggage
3+1+0

Owner feedback

Comfort
2/5
Driving
2/5
Styling
2/5
Value
1/5

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
7/10
Greenhouse gas score
8/10
SmartWay
Yes

Brand context

About Nissan

<p>Nissan's SUVs, pickup trucks, and EVs usually perform well in our road tests, but their Overall Scores can suffer because of up-and-down reliability and average to below-average owner satisfaction. Inconsistent quality across the brand means some Nissans are a better choice than others. Many of its gasoline vehicles use small turbocharged engines and continuously variable transmissions to give owners both competitive fuel economy and sporty performance. Most new Nissans come standard with a full suite of active safety and driver assist systems. Used Nissans typically have average reliability according to our surveys.</p>

Vehicle ID: 20172 First published: November 19, 2020 Updated: June 4, 2026

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.