The Nissan Versa, in its third generation and refreshed for 2022, represents Nissan’s entry-level sedan offering primarily for the North American market. While Nissan has a long history of compact cars, the Versa specifically evolved to cater to buyers seeking affordability, fuel efficiency, and a surprising amount of standard technology. The 2022 facelift brought subtle styling updates and continued the Versa’s focus on value within the subcompact sedan segment. This generation of the Versa is not sold in Europe or Japan; instead, Nissan offers different models like the Micra (Europe) and Note (Japan) to fulfill those market’s needs.
Nissan Versa III (Facelift 2022): An Overview
The Versa III, particularly the 2022 facelift, is positioned as a practical and economical choice for first-time car buyers, commuters, or those needing a reliable second vehicle. It competes with other subcompact sedans like the Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent, and Mitsubishi Mirage G4. The 2022 update focused on refining the existing platform rather than a complete overhaul, maintaining the core strengths of the Versa while enhancing its appeal. The vehicle’s design prioritizes maximizing interior space within a small footprint, and its standard features list is comparatively generous for its price point.
Engine & Performance
The 2022 Nissan Versa is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine, designated the HR16DE. This naturally aspirated engine produces 122 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 155 Newton-meters (114.32 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4,000 rpm. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT), branded as Xtronic CVT by Nissan. This CVT is tuned for fuel efficiency and smooth operation, prioritizing a comfortable driving experience over sporty performance. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 9.9 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 7.8 kg/Nm. Fuel economy is a key selling point, with EPA estimates of 35.1 US mpg combined (6.7 l/100 km), 31.8 US mpg in city driving (7.4 l/100 km), and 39.9 US mpg on the highway (5.9 l/100 km). The engine meets Tier 3-Bin30 (EPA) / LEV3-SULE emission standards.
Design & Features
The 2022 Nissan Versa maintains the sedan body style with four doors and seating for five passengers. The facelift brought minor cosmetic changes to the front fascia, including a revised grille and headlight design. The interior focuses on functionality and practicality, with a straightforward dashboard layout and durable materials. Standard features include a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety technologies under Nissan Safety Shield 360. This suite includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The Versa’s trunk offers 416-425 liters (14.69-15.01 cubic feet) of cargo space, providing ample room for everyday needs. The vehicle’s drag coefficient ranges from 0.29 to 0.32, contributing to its fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Versa |
| Generation | Versa III (facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (122 Hp) Xtronic CVT |
| Start of production | October, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Tier 3-Bin30 (EPA) / LEV3-SULE |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HR16DE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.6 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVTCS |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1202-1238 kg (2649.96 – 2729.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1635 kg (3604.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 397-433 kg (875.24 – 954.6 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 416-425 l (14.69 – 15.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 41 l (10.83 US gal | 9.02 UK gal) |
| Length | 4496 mm (177.01 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1455-1466 mm (57.28 – 57.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2619 mm (103.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1506-1519 mm (59.29 – 59.8 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1514-1529 mm (59.61 – 60.2 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29-0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Xtronic CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 254.51×22.1 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 203.2 mm |
The Nissan Versa III (facelift 2022) continues to be a compelling option in the subcompact sedan segment, offering a blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and modern features. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, it provides a comfortable and reliable transportation solution for a wide range of drivers.
