Base Nissan Versa's so stripped that it feels cheap
— -- In its attempt to reinvent basic, affordable, fuel-efficient transportation, Nissan might well have reinvented the cheap car — in every sense.
The test car was $10,990 because it included air conditioning. Even the base car, thanks to $685 shipping, isn't really less than $10,000.
Distressingly, the test car was a riot of creaks from the instrument panel, worse when cold, less so as the outside temperature rose or the car's heater got busy. A center panel atop the dashboard was loose, but holding it down didn't bring quiet.
Nissan fetched the car for a look-see. A dealer — bet you've never heard this one — couldn't duplicate the noise, a rubbing-plastic sound the auto industry colorfully refers to as "itching."
"If it was prevalent in the lineup we'd hear about it. I'm not hearing it," says Al Castignetti, Nissan brand's U.S. general manager. "It's one of our most trouble-free cars."
Still, be sure your test drive is when the car's cold.
A combination squeak/clunk also came from the vicinity of the rear suspension near the end of the test. The clutch threw in its own groan now and then.
The upholstery looked like a threadbare couch cover. Sharp plastic edges made it dangerous to grope in the instrument panel's cubby. The back seat was as uncomfortably firm as a park bench.
Big disappointments, because the idea of a new car — warranty, fresh smell and all — at a used car price appeals. Especially in these uncertain times.
In its favor, the Versa 1.6 was pleasant to drive, even satisfying, if you ignore the noises.
The inelegant front seats, for instance, were remarkably comfortable. Cheap-looking climate-control knobs nonetheless worked with a snappy click. The turn-signal lever moved with the premium feel of a fancier car's. The brittle-looking steering wheel had just enough "give" that it was pleasant to grip.
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