Nissan Versa

Although it's more stylish with the 2020 redesign, the Versa continues to be a basic, inexpensive subcompact. Available as a sedan only, we found it easy to drive and user-friendly. Unlike most of its competitors, it comes with standard key advanced safety features, like automatic emergency braking. But the Versa is no joy to drive, with its stiff ride, dull handling, and droning engine. Fuel economy is good at 32 mpg overall, but some midsized sedans--let alone compact ones--can match or better that. The driver's seat is short on support, and unlike previous Versas, the rear seat is tight.

The 2012 redesign of the sedan was a disappointment, eroding the previous car's budget-plush feel with a noisy and blatantly cheap interior and a so-so ride. While the previous model was our top-rated subcompact sedan, the changes made to this version dropped it to the bottom of the 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, this version of Nissan's small car feels low-rent.