2019 Nissan Versa Note Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The Nissan Versa Note is one of the least expensive new cars on the market in the United States, yet it offers plenty of value. The Versa...

The Nissan Versa Note is one of the least expensive new cars on the market in the United States, yet it offers plenty of value. The Versa Note received some updates in late 2018 and gets new available features for 2019.

The Versa Note uses its hatchback design to its advantage, maximizing the space available while optimizing aerodynamics for the best possible efficiency. The color palette for 2019 offers Deep Blue Pearl, Gun Metallic, Cayenne Red, Brilliant Silver, Super Black, Aspen White, and Fresh Powder.

The sole powertrain is a 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive (FWD). Its specs, 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque, might not sound impressive, but it doesn’t take much to move a car this size, and its EPA ratings of 31 mpg city, 39 highway, and 34 combined are worth the tradeoff.

Inside the cabin, it’s surprisingly spacious and reasonably comfortable, but basic. Available trim levels are the S, SV, and SR. The cloth upholstery comes in one color, though the SR trim gets faux suede accents. Available features include a multi-function steering wheel, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and remote keyless entry with push-button start.

The big news for 2019 is the addition of a 7-inch touchscreen display, now standard in every Versa Note. A 4-speaker audio system and Bluetooth also come standard. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now available in SV and SR trims, along with satellite radio.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducted minimal testing on the 2018 Versa Note, resulting in a Good score, and hasn’t yet evaluated the 2019 model. The Nissan Versa Note comes standard with a reversing camera, though buyers will have to go without any other advanced safety features.

Nissan’s updates for 2019 make the Versa Note a better way to get decent bang for minimal buck, competing with subcompacts like the Kia Rio hatchback and Ford Fiesta. The modest Versa Note seems to take the approach of underpromise and overdeliver, but it shouldn’t go overlooked by potential buyers who need a great price on a brand new car.