Nissan Versa

Nissan redesigned its entry-level Versa sedan for 2012, but not for the better. While the previous model was our top-rated subcompact sedan, the changes made to the new version have dropped it to the bottom of its category. On the positive side, this Versa gets much better fuel economy -- 32 mpg overall vs. 27 -- and it provides a roomy rear seat. But it's slow, noisy and handles clumsily. Even considering its low sticker price, Nissan's small car feels low-rent. The Versa also scored a poor in the IIHS small-overlap crash test.