The Nissan Versa is affordable transportation that has an appealing price—especially for students. It’s not quick but it is spacious, especially in hatchback form.
Pros Affordable price for new-car buyers Good fuel economy for the class Spacious rear-seat accommodations Good-looking hatchback that we like…
Cons ...and a sedan that we don’t Not much value in S Plus trim Hollow-feeling buttons and trim Pokey power
The 2018 Nissan Versa ranked #14 in Subcompact Cars. Currently the Nissan Versa has a score of 6.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 80 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Both rows of seats have plenty of legroom Sedan models have large trunks Tight turning radius Low base price
Cons Uninspiring engine Low-rent cabin Few tech features
The 2018 Nissan Versa offers a huge back seat and trunk, a comfy ride and good fuel economy. It's also one of the least expensive cars around, at least in base form. If you're a driver for Lyft or Uber, a Versa could very well be an ideal car. But if you're car shopping isn't based on such obvious commercial reasons, the Versa stops making as much sense.
PROS Giant back seat for such a small car Rides comfortably over bumps Roomy trunk Low base price
CONS Rearview camera is optional No telescoping steering wheel Noisy and slow acceleration Driving experience, style and personality are all bland
The 2018 Hyundai Accent clouds the new-or-used question, but only in well-equipped Limited trim.
Pros City-street nimble Pretty, if not distinctive Well-equipped as a Limited Quieter cabin
Cons No more hatchback No AEB on SE or SEL Full-throttle noise Gas mileage isn’t tops in class
No need for excuses here: The Accent, with its distinctive design and fuel-sipping engine, is a fine choice for an economical car. The interior feels more upscale than that of the competition, but the Accent is available only as a sedan. Its 130-hp 1.6-liter inline-four pairs with either a standard perky six-speed manual or an optional sluggish six-speed automatic.
Pros Mature design, nicely equipped, overall sophistication.
Cons Modest fuel economy, sluggish automatic, weaker value than the base model.
The 2018 Hyundai Accent is all-new. It rides atop a new chassis that is a half-inch longer than before, yielding slightly more interior space and passenger room. Increased use of high-strength steel in the frame and the body promises improved handling dynamics, and the revised four-cylinder engine delivers better fuel economy.
PROS Comfortable ride and impressively quiet cabin Spacious interior is upscale for the segment Long warranty coverage provides peace of mind Fuel efficiency is more competitive
CONS Enhanced safety aids only available on top trim level Lacks in-dash navigation but connects to smartphone nav apps
