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By Nissan Company
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Strengths: |
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Low price; good fuel economy; spacious interior; strongest engine in class; excellent NHTSA crash test results. |
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Changes: |
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On the heels of a successful launch, the Nissan Versa enters 2008 with few changes. A $700 Sport Package is a new addition on the SL's option list and hatchbacks in S trim can now order cruise control. XM is now the only satellite radio provider for the model. |
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Value: |
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Nissan's 2008 Versa remains one of the most spacious sub-compacts available today, with the hatchback boasting 17.8 cubic feet of luggage space behind the standard 60/40 split fold-down rear seat and a very generous 50.4 cubic feet when configured in full cargo mode. The standard 1.8L engine is bigger and more powerful than its competitors' powerplants, and the Versa offers a roomier cabin and more head and legroom than most of its peers. Despite having a very low cost of entry, the Versa is well equipped with air conditioning, six front and side air bags, and a CD player. |
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Overview: |
The 2008 Versa sedan and hatchback are Nissan's entry-level models, slotted below the Sentra. It offers energy-, budget-, and safety-conscious consumers inexpensive entry into one of the safest and smartest small cars on the market.
With respective S model base prices of $12,630 and $12,730, and SL prices of $14,630 and $14,730, buyers get a strong 1.8L inline four making 122 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque and plenty of amenities usually reserved for more upscale segments.
The six-speed manual transmission is standard on all models, while the four-speed automatic adds $800 to the base S and the Xtronic CVT is a $1,000 option on the better-equipped SL. The automatic is not available in SL trim.
Notable standard equipment on the S includes power mirrors, air conditioning, a CD player, a tire pressure monitor, and six air bags.
The SL models feature 15-inch alloy wheels, upgraded cloth seat trim, power accessories, a six-disc in-dash CD changer, and an auxiliary audio input jack. A 60/40 split rear seat is standard on all hatchbacks and on the SL sedan.
A Sport Package in SL trim adds fog lights, unique fascias front and rear, lower body sill extensions, and a rear spoiler, while a Convenience Package adds Bluetooth and remote keyless entry and ignition.
A Power Package can be ordered on the base car, and it installs power windows and locks, plus a remote keyless entry system and more. A sunroof, XM satellite radio, and a Rockford-Fosgate subwoofer are available on the SL, and the S now has available cruise control.
The 2008 Versa retains its functionally intuitive cabin design, making control of all dials and knobs a snap for driver and passenger alike. |
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