Nissan Versa 5-speed manual - The last econobox

[@jkeelsnc]

The fact that the Versa and Mirage sales are actually UP tells me that they should not be cancelled.

[@BiffGreggle]

Nissan and Mitsubishi are also some of the largest purveyors of long, high-interest sub-prime loans among new car dealers, which also means that something is seriously wrong in America

[@digitaljon1109]

I like my MIrage.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

@@BiffGreggle average montly car payments are above $1000, as are the people underwater on a car loan the signs all point to something, and its not good.

[@dwightdixon8508]

it’s the EPA CAFE standards that’s forcing auto manufacturers to drop affordable subcompact and even some compact vehicles. Yes, you head that correctly. US Government CAFE standards actually makes it too difficult for auto makers to achieve the MPG for small cars because it’s based on wheelbase thus the larger the wheelbase the lower the MPG requirements so unfortunately no more subcompact vehicles, only larger vehicles. There’s a formula based on vehicle wheelbase which dictates a cars MPG requirement. Smaller the cars wheelbase the higher the MPG requirement so now a shorter wheelbase (subcompact car) auto can only achieve the required MPG by using hybrid tech. Seriously, check it out.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

@dwightdixon8508 i was waiting for this comment

[@doalwa]

Finally a regular car is being reviewed on KZbin!

[@turle8645]

Pretty sure there’s a KZbin channel that reviews regular cars. Just regular car reviews. Forgot the channel name though :)

[@StubbyPhillips]

A car like that would go great with my $175 smart phone. Works great! If I didn't already have an older car that doesn't spy on me or have subscriptions or need firmware updates, I'd buy one.

[@eltitux6256]

@@turle8645 mr regular now doesnt review many regular cars

[@kumarp3074]

I found quite a few reviews of this particular model on Yotube.

[@justin6581]

@@turle8645shooting cars does that

[@fhwolthuis]

Owning and driving a basic but competent car like this has something really satisfying

[@tonymanzo3766]

No wfdu 89.1 playing music from the 60-80, fairleigh Dickenson u no commercials

[@soldiersvejk2053]

Manual transmission, steel rim, halogen bulb, and real key… everything to love about a car❤

[@gentle285]

It's a wild contrast to LKA, AEB and automatic high-beam 😂

[@wigletron2846]

And manual parking brake so you can actually change the rear brakes yourself

[@Punkingamesss]

Not the steel rim

[@soldiersvejk2053]

@@Punkingamesss Steel rim works well in the rough road conditions of New England. Aluminum rims are virtually impossible to repair, and quite expensive to replace.

[@magnacartamedia6510]

Except all of them are assembled in Mexico, which has been proven to bypass many quality controls.

[@turle8645]

I would argue this car is better than 95% of what’s on the market today, being manual and having relatively few electronics, with an old engine design. it’s going to be extremely reliable

[@scott8919]

I agree. Bare bones vehicles have their own charm, kind of like sleeping in a tent as opposed to a bedroom.

[@Compact-Disc_700mb]

@@scott8919 A better comparison would be a normal bedroom vs a fancy hotel room, the fancy hotel room is fun to rent once in a while. But the simple bedroom is way better and cozier. A tent would be more akin to a golf cart or go cart or motorcycle.

[@kumarp3074]

Unfortunately Nissan as a manufacturer usually does relatively poorly on reliability surveys.

[@synapticburn]

​@@kumarp3074 that's largely due to their CVT transmissions

[@Joshtheweatherman]

​@@kumarp3074 Interestingly enough, the engine that is in that Versa was developed by Renault, and Mercedes Benz. Both Mercedes and Renault are known for making reliable naturally aspirated engines. The CVT's aren't as fun to drive, but they have improved a lot over the years. As long as you keep the CVT fluid changed, they can last a pretty long time. But if you gave me the option to get a manual or an automatic, you bet I would choose the manual. It's a lot more fun to drive. Much less electronic stuff to break as well. How I miss my simple 2000 Ford Ranger 2.5 with a 5-speed. It just kept on going, never gave me any check engine lights. Someone ran into me and completely totaled it :c

[@larrydrozd2740]

If your only automatic trans option is a CVT, you REALLY want that manual!!!!

[@vdivanov]

In traffic stop/go hell you really don't.

[@larrydrozd2740]

@@vdivanov Seriously, you do not want a CVT. They're JUNK! You can make them "work" if you change the fluid and filter every 25K miles max. Even then......

[@thomaseboland8701]

@@larrydrozd2740 You don't want Nissan's CVT. Other CVT's are getting along just fine. Manuals are a vestigial at this point. If you like them, fine. But they're like vinyl turntables. They're not better, they're not what most people want, they're not what most people should use, but you like them.

[@Handle_gravel]

@@vdivanov The clutch probably has a 5lb resistance. If you can't do that in traffic, I would advise running up and down some stairs, or have doc make sure you don't have some sort of degenerative muscle disease.

[@the80386]

not all CVTs are created equal. subaru is not bad at all.

[@howtobebasic2122]

That amount a features the Versa has would have been considered a luxury car back in the 90's

[@JessicaFEREM]

A lot of these features are required in america now, it's basically unavoidable, especially the lane keep assist and parking sensors, backup cameras, etc.

[@andreasu.3546]

Parking sensors! Lane assist! That screen! Way beyond most 1990s luxury cars.

[@GlorifiedG-z9c]

@@andreasu.3546 AC, Power steering/windows/mirrors= luxury.

[@scott8919]

​​@@GlorifiedG-z9cthe way cars are today, anything without power steering would be impossible to drive at low speed or in parking lots. Nothing is as light as a Toyota Tercel or Hyundai Excel anymore. So I'd argue it's a necessity and not a luxury feature.

[@Laykun9000]

@@GlorifiedG-z9c No. Nissan Sentras / Pulsars had all those features back in the 90s and they definitely weren't luxury cars, even the higher end trims.

[@truealarmer]

watching this video reminded me of when the teacher would roll out the cart with the TV on it in 90s elementary school. this was awesome

[@burner8959]

Thanks for keeping the 5 speed alive. This makes so sad.

[@SHO1989]

And he gets to not spend money on the inevitable Jatco CVT repair since he got the manual.

[@dchawk81]

A spongy cheap 5 speed behind an anemic engine is manual for manual's sake, and not for any tangible benefit. Not even for "driving feel."

[@El-Ritmo]

It is absolutely and officially "an car". Sensible, straightforward, sufficient: in most ways simply the essence of a car, and exactly as much as many people want (and considerably more than many people need), no more, no less. And to boot, no galaxy-brained features like turn signals on a touchscreen (and the simplicity of the heating and AC controls - what joy!). I can't pretend to be excited by it - it's a tool and does a job - but I wholeheartedly wish there were more cars like this around, instead of enormous SUVs and the like.

[@ashthewolfdog1380]

One of the last truly good cars. Cheap, affordable, does exactly what I want a car to do, AND IT'S A MANUAL!!! I love driving manual.

[@zaxchannel2834]

3:21 the amber turn signals make it better than most cars already

[@scottjacko87]

Its a regular thing here in Australia.

[@STho205]

Much ado is made of that but it is basically just a regional preference by familiarity. My wife and I have two black Ford sedans. Nearly identical but hers has amber rear tail lights ...mine red for some reason. Both blink the same and are similar height and size. She's been hit 4 times. I don't care if the car in front of me has red or amber blinkers...I can still tell they are signalling a turn or lane shift.

[@MR_FIAT]

Amber indicators are mandatory in europe afaik. only time ive ever seen red indicators is from grey american imports.

[@nex69696]

@@MR_FIAT and in most cases, they're still illegal. For registration in most European countries (including mine) they need to be converted to independent amber lights, but owners choose to switch them back after passing the inspection because they think it looks better

[@STho205]

@@MR_FIAT do BMW drivers use them or is there a shortage of blinker fluid there too.

[@runrin_]

lotta respect for getting a simple, small car that suits your needs. i would be proud to own this car. i don't understand why single folks or couples with no children feel they need huge suvs. a smart fortwo is enough room for 99% of what i need a car to do. if people think that safety is the best reason to buy an suv, they are only inviting the creep of ever larger cars that are more dangerous for pedestrians. for most folks, we spend maybe an hour tops in a car every day, why does it need to be $40,000+ to get to and from work and run errands? i'll never understand it.

[@SHO1989]

Agreed. I got off the better and better new car merry-go-round 15 years ago and continue to drive my very well used 2000 Honda with just regular maintenance and the occasional failed part replacement ( which at 260k miles is to be expected. ) Parts are cheap and plentiful and I don't mind the occasional spend needed vs having car payments, higher taxes and insurance, and depreciation that would be way more than whatever part I replaced.

[@michealpersicko9531]

well if you're doing uber or lift and youre just one person an SUV makes sense or if you're doordashing it does too.

[@davidanderson8469]

And they're still buying them. I see them struggling to park 'em at Costco.

[@ssnoc]

Congratulations - Smart purchase its almost like a NOS turntable :) Nice to see an old school manual with normal controls.

[@Saastapukki]

1:09 They really used those beepers everywhere. I have a 90's seiko alarm clock that makes that exact sound.

[@rei_frajernami_philleotardo]

yeah there is a japanese salaryman yt channel and he has the exact same sound in his vids lol

[@wigletron2846]

Sounds like an old Honda I had

[@jmi5969]

Hmm... I have a 1990s washing machine (JDM) and 2000s refrigerator (Euro spec) that beep in anger just like this Nissan. And yet I never heard anything like this in a car. But then again these were all Euro or JDM cars. And the beeper in my VW died as soon as warranty expired.

[@SockyNoob]

Better than 90% of the crossover slop on the roads today.

[@cocusar]

I still remember when you bought the VW; one of the facts that caught me by surprise back then was that you chose manual, which is rare in the states (unlike where I live, where it's still the norm). I bought recently an automatic transmission car and I'm missing my old manual. I drove a versa in the US in 2018, a rental car, and boy it was underpowered! we were four in that car and we lost a lot of speed on a simple hill. I got to admit this car has a nice charm. I would like to see you add some improvements, like the anti fog lights, a better stereo, tweeters on the I pillar, or whatever you chose to do, it's always entertaining to watch your videos.

[@MrDuncl]

Having gone from manual to DSG (now on my second) I don't miss the manual at all. Especially when the long term MPG on my first was over 50MPG (42 US MPG).

[@jub8891]

a tape deck

[@NJRoadfan]

Its actually the opposite these days. VW has kept the manual option on US models, where they were eliminated from the same car in Europe. You couldn't get the last gen Audi S4 with a manual in Europe (despite being the "sporty" model), only the USA. Right now the only Jetta you can buy with a manual is the GLI, which isn't sold in Europe either.

[@rkan2]

​@@NJRoadfanYeah, someone at VW realized that enthusiast models sell better with manuals. Hence why Porsche brought back some manuals too and they can charge more for it than the DSGs 😂 Meanwhile at Ferrari...

[@hyperturbotechnomike]

It's funny how different the perception of gearboxes is across the world. I'm from Germany, where manual is the norm. But elderly people and urban commuters have automatic. I live in the alps. Took a ride with an automatic from a friend once and hated it. The car was performing very poorly. Maybe it was the car itself that was faulty, idk. The Unimog my wife and i use as camping vehicle has three shift levers for different speed ranges, even multiple backwards gears. Useful for terrain. In the united states, most people drive automatic. But i'm curious, if this is also true for people living in the mountains. I guess for urban, flat terrain, stop and go traffic, automatic would be better suited. //edited: typo, have a new HTPC keyboard

[@cadenswain158]

i bought one 6 months ago. It's been a great car so far. i upgraded from a 90s corolla with the 5 speed, so the 24 versa feels right at home to me. the versa 5 speed is buttery smooth. love it.

[@STho205]

This car is extremely similar to the mid teen Fiesta S with stick shift. Same body style/size as that and the teens Corolla. The Fiesta S was 14k, Corolla base was 18k then...Versa in 2015 was $9995 so 10 or 11k really. Nissan has tried to keep the cost down with simplicity...where all others have abandoned it or shut down the lines to start at 22k min and mostly sell for 30k basic transportation

[@ghiagoo]

The monochromatic colors for the last year, are like dressing up for the funeral

[@BillyBlazeTheKeenest]

Glad you picked up one of these gems before it's too late. My brother has a 2021 Nissan Versa in the base 5MT configuration and he absolutely loves his.

[@netoe]

This channel will now be called Nissanestlife then.

[@777anarchist]

*Dacialife😉

[@pikaporeon]

I’m still mentally in the Subaru era

[@vwestlife]

Actually when I started making videos, my daily driver was a Mazda.

[@netoe]

@vwestlife those versas are quite popular here in Mexico , they cost basically the same as in the States, in pesos of course, favorite car for uber driving.

[@honestguy7764]

Make it a 6 speed, make it a station wagon, and we have a winner!

[@jmacdermott8871]

The most fun car I ever had was a Subaru Justy hatchback. It had a manual transmission, no power steering, a three cylinder engine and maybe 85 horsepower. Boy, was it good on gas! Its weak klink was its tiny wheels, and every time I hit a pothole at any speed it seemed I had to replace the rim. It has 4-wheel drive, but the wheels were so small and the car so low, it didn't really have a practical application for that. I miss those days of cheap, manual transmission cars.

[@jordantomblin2302]

Thank you for buying one of these. I really wanted to buy one of these, but due to issues at work and subsequent unemployment… I couldn’t enjoy one of these simple econoboxes. I miss cars that you could take at face value and had nothing to hide. On the bright side, I got a good deal on a 1995 Buick Century with only 36k miles at the time. Thankfully, it’s been a simple and good car despite only averaging about 24mpg instead of the 30 I want out of a car I own. Fantastic overview of the new Versa.

[@davidanderson8469]

Those are equally simple and reliable and super comfortable.

[@LyleBialk]

I bought a 2024 just like this last August. I'm getting ready to take it in for it's 5,000 mile service (I did change the oil/filter at 2,000 miles to get rid of manufacture debris if there was any). I have taken it on one 1,200 mile road trip, and was pleasantly surprised at how well it handles prolonged highway driving. I do tend to stay close to the posted speed limits, it does well. My overall MPG thus far is 43.5 MPG, well above EPA estimates. I also did not NEED a new vehicle, but wanted to get something a little more economical compared to my F150. It is everything I hoped it would be (except for lack of Android Auto and folding rear seats). It is very unfortunate that manufacturers seem to feel that only poor people who do not drive much would want a manual transmission. Shame on you Nissan for not allowing a manual transmission at all trim levels. A definite contributing factor in why "Manuals don't sell" - they cripple them. Funny, if they don't sell, why are they so hard to find, and why do they disappear from a dealers lot within a day or two of arrival?

[@davidanderson8469]

You don't need a sophisticated alarm system either as most thieves don't know how to drive a manual.

[@damanchur604]

Nice car! In Europe we have something similiar to this, it's called a Dacia Sandero, it's a little 3 cylinder hatchback that doesn't come with ac in the base model and costs $14723.

[@donavan8581]

Oh no! Anyway - Jeramy Clarkson.

[@Rich_123]

Great News!

[@donavan8581]

@@Rich_123 oh no! Anyway.

[@eatmyholelimey204]

missed the opportunity to say “Good News!”

[@doalwa]

@@damanchur604 These Dacias are everywhere here in Germany…people can’t afford VW or Mercedes anymore, I guess 🤷‍♂️

[@oldsledpurgatory3595]

I bought one of these (silver) in June of 2024 and I'm very happy with it. Got about 3500 miles on it so far with no issues. The manual trans makes this relatively simple basic car pretty fun to drive. The engine loves to rev and will happily live between 3000 and 4000 rpm all day and still get around 40 mpg average. Highly recommended if you can find one.

[@TheAnd0055]

wonder how much you paid?

[@oldsledpurgatory3595]

@@TheAnd0055 Just over $18,000 with tax , title. etc.

[@Daktyl198]

I love that all of my favorite KZbinrs reference each other. The Aging Wheels reference at the start, and the Technology Connections shoutout.

[@runrin_]

ha! the aging wheels reference went over my head despite my regular viewership. good catch.

[@MR_FIAT]

also a small hubnut reference.

[@fritzkuhne2055]

@@MR_FIAT doom wiper!

[@thatguythatdoesstuff5899]

I drive a small 80s Japanese car and this Nissan has some things that remind me of it, especially the trunk opening lever on the floor.

[@scialyticsteve]

In my experience, the problem with the levers on the floor can be rust if you're in an area that gets a lot of snow and they salt the roads. Road salt gets on them from your boots and it makes them rust and stiffen up.

[@thatguythatdoesstuff5899]

@scialyticsteve Good to know. I do live in an area that gets snow, luckily I have a whole spare lever, cable and all. I also make sure the underside of the car is protected in the winter.

[@scialyticsteve]

@@thatguythatdoesstuff5899 I think it's a good idea to apply oil to the levers to prevent rusting. I get my car treated with Krown rust protection annually to prevent the road salt from rusting it away.

[@ProjectGeek1]

Almost all the reasons you mentioned are why I'm keeping my 2014 VW Jetta till it dies. Basic 2.0 Engine, 5 Speed. Base model for life.

[@Daniel-79]

I drive a ‘93 Nissan D21 pickup with a 2.4L 4cyl engine and 5-Speed manual transmission. It has 299,000 miles. It has been a good little pickup. The only creature comforts that I wished it had are cruise control and intermittent wipers. Needless to say, I like my vehicles basic! Congratulations on your new car purchase! I hope it provides you years of trouble free transportation!

[@arnoldm889]

This car will outlive all of us.

[@davidanderson8469]

Why get an electric when these are available?

[@Ale.K7]

I love that it has analog speedometer and tachometer!

[@openscholar9908]

I hate all that infotainment crap. Physical gauges look so much better.

[@mpwheatley]

Love the Technology Connections turn signal reference.

[@idkidk5552]

This is basically my 2001 Toyota Corolla with a few modern touches, funny hearing some of the features described as novelties when it's all I've ever known. I will be sad the day the Corolla bites the dust from rust, finding another car like it is progressively harder. It still puts a smile on my face when zipping up the roads around here with a manual, I don't see myself ever wanting anything else. Great video.

[@AricVogel]

Congrats on the new car! I feel the same way about a lot of the stuff you mentioned. I don't care to impress other people with my car, all that matters is that I like it and it works well for me. One of the best things about having a cheap car is being able to upgrade it however you want, it would be cool to see you upgrade things like the horn, add fog lights, you could even upgrade the radio if you ever felt the need. Maybe do something fun like install an older head unit with a decent tuner and a CD/cassette player, it would definitely fit the theme of this channel.

[@CommodoreFan64]

He couldn't install an older one, as the backup camera is a required safety feature, and New Jersey where he lives is a state that does safety inspections, but he could get a touch screen Android audio head unit that accepts input from the backup camera.

[@AricVogel]

@@CommodoreFan64 Yeah a double DIN touch unit would be the most practical replacement anyways, that's what I went for with my car too. I used the iDatalink Maestro RR to retain all my factory features as well, things like the backup camera, retained accessory power, steering wheel controls, satellite radio receiver, even the vacuum fluorescent heads up display module (which ford calls the "FDIM" I believe) still shows the date and time like the factory navigation system did. That being said, do you think he could buy one of those cheap aftermarket wireless backup cameras to satisfy the safety requirement? I doubt they'd require the backup camera be integrated with the radio, just that it be present and functional.

[@Chickenpatty878]

This was not recorded on a handycam 😳

[@vwestlife]

Actually, it was. A Sony HDR-CX360 from 2011.

[@Chickenpatty878]

@ oh wow, it looks great!

[@TSL73]

@@vwestlife Got that fancy HD camera!

[@NateTheMeh]

When these older sensors get a good amount of light they can look pretty good!

[@AnthonyGuidetti]

Congratulations and I’m glad you bought one new to show that there is demand for a basic manual transmission car! I drove one of these as a rental with the CVT of course, and I was delighted by how basic yet livable it was. I was briefly looking into one of these with a manual but ended up obtaining a family member’s car instead. In the past I briefly owned a Ford Maverick Hybrid and a Mitsubishi Outlander Sport with the 5 speed and I was always taken aback with the high revs at highway speeds like you mentioned, which is why I liked the eCVT in the Mav. The great thing about the Versa with a manual is that it seems to be basic and reliable, so hopefully it treats you well!

[@izyreal]

First time I want a Nissan in many years.

[@toyorobo]

This is the best review of a Versa I’ve seen ever! Thank you for celebrating the simple, satisfying, and affordable cars.

[@gabes3dvideos]

I bought this car a year ago, very cool to hear you appreciate all the same things I enjoy about it. don’t think I’d buy a different car even if I had more money. Also, the gas mileage improved over time. After one year and 14k miles my average mpg is 39.9.

[@devdammit40]

I ended up getting a '24 GTI 380...the last year for a manual transmission. I love it!

[@jeraldjoyce2995]

i wont necessarily fault people for wanting nice things like heated leather seats. but there is intrinsic value in being able to purchase an inexpensive, dependable runabout that will last decades with the proper care. i think auto manufacturers (& to an extent consumers) are losing sight of that & will have to pay that price. a five speed fit/versa isnt glamorous but it sure as hell beats walking.

[@GGigabiteM]

While this car is probably going to be fairly reliable, it's not going to last decades. The versa has always been a low volume car, and with the changes between model years, parts commonality isn't there. In 2023 in the US, fewer than 25,000 of them were sold. In Canada, fewer than 1,700. The used parts pool from wrecked versas is going to be tiny and aftermarket companies aren't going to make parts for it because there's no profit to be made. Nissan is also moving on to a new model year with different parts and isn't going to keep parts on the shelf for more than the warranty period of the car. I've known some people that have bought the rare manual transmission model of some late year cars and it came back to bite them. The most recent I think was a Dodge something, basically the pedal assembly was made out of cheap plastic and it broke, making the clutch and acceleration pedal inoperable. The whole assembly was unobtanium, nobody had one, not even the dealer. The shop that it was at basically had to engineer their own assembly and graft it on to the remaining good part of the OE assembly. It worked, but there was no guarantee for how long because more of the OE plastic trash could come apart. This car is sort of a strange anachronism. It's a 90s style mass produced economy car, but it has the problems of low volume exotics. I think this is a nice car, but I would never buy it because of the expensive cost of owning a low volume car. I have a 3 model year 1st gen Dakota, I know all about low volume cars and their problems.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

manual Fits are great lol, its basically the continuation of the 90s civic but with modern car amenities and fits are extremely practical whilst being a blass to drive look at sundaecip for gridlife

[@jeraldjoyce2995]

@@ShaiyanHossain It's funny you mention 90s civics. my first car was a 99 civic, so when I went hunting for something newer/nicer the fit was a shoo in.

[@floripaspbr]

I´m a long time viewer, just wanted to say I wish you a happy 2025! I live in Brazil but I too drive an econobox over here. On top of all the problems we also have high crime rates so using the cheapest car at least makes me a less likely target.

[@LucasPereiradaSilva]

Just tell him this "econobox" is NOWHERE as affordable as it is in the US, actually, it costs over US$ 114,000 equivalent, but only comes with the CVT.

[@scialyticsteve]

Here where I live in Canada (and I suspect much of the US) having a standard transmission vehicle is a theft deterrent because most of the thieves can't drive them.

[@jim9930]

@@scialyticsteve2001 GMC Sonoma pckp (S10/trim) got stolen twice. 5 speed stick, no air, hand cranks, cheap radio. One guy was nice enough to bring it back; went to visit his girlfriend out of town. Neighbors called the cops and they caught the guy the second time - I had to pay to get it out of impound. There were only 256 key cuts for that model - surprising number sold in the same area with the same key (yeah, I went around unlocking and trying to start every one I saw after the second time, they all unlock with any key). I drove that little truck till rust killed it, 20 years in the salt belt western PA. Last of the great simple small trucks!

[@obert10019]

This is why I have been running a 5M Fit for many years tho I have the budget for newer and “fancier” cars. I like cars from the 70s even more but they’re money pits as daily drivers.

[@chinna9056]

You are very informative. I like the way you talk about the Versa.

[@fabianaguilar3537]

I bought a new one of these early this year when my 8 month old Nissan Kicks was totaled in front of my house at 3 AM by a drunk driver. It took me a while to remember how to drive manual, but I really like the little car now.

[@Sedan57Chevy]

You do genuinely great car reviews! This little car, in this configuration and color, really is a neat little throwback! I miss when you could get something this simple in a larger size that could fit four adults comfortably- like a big sedan from the 60s or 70s.

[@bertb3731]

Love your passion for the MT - we rarely see the base model versions of vehicles reviewed - very refreshing!

[@Raptor50aus]

Perfect I wish they were in Australia. I'm still running my 2005 Camry V6 with 475,000 km and still running perfect

[@BADMAN-SJ]

YO I HOPE YOU SEE THIS MESSAGE I love your video man it’s like the old school 90s car reviews , not trying to sell anything just being straight informative but I hear the passion of sharing your thoughts through your voice nice man

[@LTMedia]

Drove one of these in this color but the SR trim, and I really think the Versa is a wonderful cheap car, as long as one has realistic expectations. I was able to haul 3 family members and a trunk full of groceries around town with no issues whatsoever. Gonna miss these little cars!

[@MrRightNow]

I love everything about this car except the no keyless entry option. To me that's a must have

[@EC-ki5wv]

Harder to steal

[@lirrprodigy2810]

My Grandpa whos 78 got one of these this year except with added rims and color coded handles to replace a 2009 Corolla S that was bought new. Wore itself out mechanically and started to become expensive to repair with 177,000+ hard highway miles going from Long Island to Brooklyn daily till the company closed up a few years ago. He asked for a no BS simple car with a key and inexpensive asking price. The salesman whos known my grandmother as a loyal service customer for her Rogue knew exactly where to take him and he loves it, I gotta admit that it looks sharp ! Currently driving myself a 2006 Mazda 3 hatch which is my 2nd car following a very unique green 1998 Corolla that i sold for health reasons at the time. Stupid reliable and simple, I miss it still to an extent.

[@warrenf5821]

I know you're not really a car KZbinr, but I have found your car reviews and personal fleet updates to be some of the most interesting car videos on KZbin. You seem to think about cars from the perspective of someone who is trying to spend their money wisely, and I appreciate that. Every other car KZbinr would just tell you "oh you don't want the low end version." Well I certainly do... As a side note, this Versa reminds me of my 2004 Honda Accord. Simple. Reliable. No frills. I don't need my car to do everything. I just want it to work well and not be miserable to own and drive.

[@FoundarySource]

Fun Fact!. This versa model was manufactured in Aguascalientes, Mexico (Where I live!) including all parts.

[@MeowStationOrignal]

I’m glad you got the manual.

[@volvo09]

Absolutely!

[@valiantviktor]

@@TimmyJoePCTech I think that's a very sensible choice! Only issue is those cars will only last so long on the road, so buying new isn't all bad.

[@donavan8581]

@@TimmyJoePCTechwonder how things will change after Honda takes over.

[@volvo09]

@@TimmyJoePCTech eh, I love my Honda's and Toyotas, but a base Versa with a manual isn't a bad car. I wouldn't be afraid to buy one with my money. Change the oil (not when the reminder comes on), and it's a nice basic car with little to go wrong and repairs are cheap. Lots of these lower priced cars don't get good service, mainly because they are cheap and people are stretching finances to even get it. For some of these people they think why change the oil at 5k miles when they put 15k or more miles on the oil and the car still runs fine? (Till it doesn't), that's the mindset of a lot of cheap car buyers... They neglect the cars and it shows up later in life.

[@volvo09]

I was looking these Versas up about a month ago when I learned they were the last true econobox you can get with a manual transmission. Great buy!

[@xl7667]

Yeah Nissans are fine as long as you stay away from the plague that is the CVTs in them. The Versa is definitely not a powerhouse but neither is a new Corolla either. I think it makes 109 or 110 HP and a new Corolla makes 140. The CVT in the versa might be fine though since it’s not under much of any load from the gutless 4 banger in it.

[@tim3172]

@@xl7667 Alternatively, you could just... IDK... change the CVT fluid and keep it for years and years.

[@Compact-Disc_700mb]

@@tim3172 Depends on the CVT, The Jatco ones that Nissan cars have are known to have major issues, but Toyota and Honda ones seem ok. However a manual or a regular automatic is likely to more reliable and solid. CVTs just aren't really that pleasant to drive though so it makes more sense to avoid them.

[@xl7667]

@@tim3172I said specifically the Nissan CVTs, the Jatco produced ones have major design flaws, my sister owned a then new 2022 Sentra with 20,000 miles, (before Nissan says to service it) and it completely failed. Car wouldn’t go above 40mph. This a common issue with them. The Toyota eCVTs are probably the best of the bunch, with regular service I’ve heard them last a while. But Jatco CVTs are completely hit or miss.

[@RobGMyMX5]

11:14 Never thought Id hear a Hubnut reference on a normally completely unrelated channel 😊 The annoying rev hang on lift-off is an emmissions control measure to ensure all fuel in the cylinders is fully burnt off. It definitely makes it hard to shift quickly while leeping things smooth.

[@Trance88]

Congrats on getting a new car! I had the chance to check out a Versa at the IAS last year. It was the only car on the market that I could actually see myself in. The only drawback to this car is the non-folding rear seats, which would technically leave me with less "continuous" cargo space than I have in my Chevy Spark. I can at least BARELY fit a bicycle in the rear of my car. In the Versa with the fixed back seats, I wouldn't be able to.

[@CommodoreFan64]

Maybe get one of those folding bikes if that would work for you?

[@theuncalled_64]

​@@CommodoreFan64 as the Author said, the problem with the rear folding seats is that is only available for the higher trims, which means CVT only

[@brenthooton3412]

You don't know how pleased I am to see you actively hunting out a manual transmission on a "normal" car. It seems like they're only available now on either the "top of the line" or the "bottom of the line." I would gladly forego the high-tech bells and whistles and keep the joy of shifting my own gears.

[@gabrielrogd]

As a European I'd say this would sell a lot across our continent, especially if they used a lower displacement turbocharged engine (as Renault/Dacia does with their Clio/Sandero) or perhaps a 6-speed (at least a longer ratio gearbox). I'd say this would be the only sedan at this price point to be sold. Nevertheless, very nice review. Happy new year! From Greece

[@und4287]

There is the Dacia Logan, but the current generation seems to be only sold in certain countries, such as Romania (where it is built), Bulgaria and Serbia

[@gabrielrogd]

@und4287 I wish the Logan was sold in all Europe like it used to. But a Versa that is a Micra-related platform-based car would not be bad even if it's a Nissan-Renault joint.

[@no1DdC]

Small sedans only sell in Eastern and South Eastern Europe. They are really unpopular, probably because at this size, hatchbacks are just so much more practical.

[@eggnoodlezz2]

Very nice review on the Versa. You were thorough and comprehensive in your review!

[@jeenkzk5919]

Those Versa’s are good lil cars. The beauty of a manual is that an automatic transmission can go out for a number of reasons. If your manual transmission goes out on you, it’s your fault. It’s also good that you have a mechanical handbrake. I’ve had those push button ones and I hate them. They’re difficult to find if I need to push it in an emergency. With a mechanical, you just yank that sucker up

[@tim3172]

Manual transmissions fail all the time for all kinds of reasons. There have been massive manual transmission recalls in the past due to faulty... everything: fluids, clutches, balancing, etc. "They’re difficult to find if I need to push it in an emergency." That's... that's not what parking brakes are for. (Apostrophes are used for contraction or possession. They don't pluralize words.)

[@B9M3]

Aren't the clutches in all manuals considered wear items? It's guaranteed to need replacement, but much less expensive than an automatic or CVT repair.

[@TheMM360]

Smart choice. If you don't need all the fancy new stuff, cars like that are very good deals nowadays.

[@BobM925]

Great video. What a fine car, just honest to the point of what a car is - personal transportation, and comfortably so. I love simple no-frills motoring, just brilliant. I'd have one.

[@moonsattic]

I had a 2019 Mirage, 5 speed base. I loved it, the revy little 1.2 3cyl was a ton of fun.

[@beavis6363]

OMG, I think I'm in love. I bought a 2020 Rogue and hate most of the "features". The simplicity of this model is what I long for. Key locks, manual, and steel rims?! I'm there.

[@svilen2006]

Congratulations for the purchase!

[@Jacobelsenraat14]

I love the 5 speed it’s very smooth, clutch is light. I have 17k miles on it.

[@Carnold_YT]

I love these cars, simple, honest and fun to drive. Great buy and also great video!

[@robme3660]

I own a 21 Corolla hatchback se 6mt. Toyota dropped the 6mt option in the States for the regular Rolla in 2023. Mad props to Nissan for offering this in 2025.

[@standup109]

After binging classic top gear all week, this was a delight to follow me in my notifications. I love how old fashioned it is because there’s less that can go wrong!

[@DeathInTheSnow]

How long before you change the oil with eggnog and the coolant with pilk?

[@probablyanadult7354]

Don't forget the banana

[@ImmortalThanos]

He's going NOGGIN'!

[@stonent]

Aww my PKCell.

[@TechnoboxOG]

OH NOOOOO

[@Netsuni]

Haha

[@BReal-10EC]

As a tall guy (6ft 5), I've always liked smaller cars... it seems like they tend to have more headroom than bigger sedans. I guess because they have a higher roof height and more vertical seating. Good job on the color choice. Now you just need some bronze RPF1s.

[@no1DdC]

Ever sat in a Smart? They are surprisingly roomy height-wise, at least on the driver's seat. The passenger side has less legroom though, because depending on the model year, they put either the battery or the tire inflation kit in front of the foot well. I will not share how long it took me to find the latter when I actually needed it once - only to then find out it was missing...

[@thekidfromiowa]

Do you find something comical about my appearance when I am driving my automobile? Everyone needs to drive a vehicle, even the very tall. This was the largest auto I could afford. Should I therefore be made the subject of fun, huh? Would you like it if others laughed at YOUR misfortune?

[@BReal-10EC]

@@thekidfromiowa I used to drive a 92 Miata (brother moved to other coast and I got it)... at 6ft 5, I resemble that episode.

[@CaptoCapri]

I have a 2015 Versa sitting in my driveway, it's still going strong and I love it!! Simple, comfortable and reliable... plus it's been paid off for the past 5 years!

[@Hurriedimpgames]

Fun little HubNut reference there 11:13

[@DanteScaglione]

Very interesting! Cool to compare this stripped back 2024 car to my daily driver, a 1990 Toyota Corolla. It’s a base model with no features to speak of. I grew up driving sedans from the early 2000s and realized that you take features as simple as storage on the doors for granted. I did however put a very nice radio and sound system in it :). A simple and reliable car is incredibly satisfying and I’ve grown accustomed to my econobox

[@gwheregwhizz]

One day the US will perhaps get Dacia that sell extremely well throughout Europe, though even they have gone upmarket. The base model now even has a radio.

[@joshhoman]

Americans like big pickup trucks and SUVs packed with lots of features.

[@Kirix]

I've driven the manual Versa and I love it and would get it. The clutch is very light and the shifter is very mechanical feeling like the Nissan Z and satisfying to drive

[@chinna9056]

It does have direct injection and port injection. That's why it has eight injectors.

[@auxmike718]

So it’s a GDI?

[@henryjoshual1848]

@@auxmike718 Versa does not have DI. The Sentra has DI. A DI engine is always more problematic.

[@henryjoshual1848]

This is the best Versa stick video I have yet seen. Very informative. I have been researching a Versa stick purchase for months. They are very hard to find and rarely discounted. I have found that the base Sentra has FAR more discounts and is often barely $500 more than the Versa stick. I will likely end up buying a base Sentra with the CVT. Not by choice, but the huge Sentra discounts cannot be ignored.

[@juanignacioaschura9437]

You guys really got shafted with the transmission and trim level choices... Where I live (Argentina), your S+ package trim is called Advance here and has the Manual Transmission as an option. The Sense trim level (base) is exactly what you got, down to the lack of foglights. Oh, and there is a different shade of blue available here, Metallic Blue, which I think suits the model better. As for this car being like something out of the '90s, I have to agree.. because I own a car from the '90s, a 6th Gen Honda Accord 2.3. Almost all of the things you point out, I find them in my car, with the extra active and passive safety systems and safer crash structure being the differences. Simplicity is something the Japanese get so right, I wish they would do more of that...

[@Nutz0]

very true

[@l3p3rM355i4h]

Great video. A few years ago I bought my 2013 135is because it was the last car BMW offered with hydraulic steering and without a high resolution infotaiment screen. It was as close as I could get to buying an E46 while not buying a 20 year old BMW because I didn't want to have to fix my daily driver every other week. of course since it's a BMW, it's still been in the shop for something every 6 months, but I got that CarMax warranty a la Doug DeMurro and a rental or loaner every time it's broken down. Had a 2020 Nissan Versa CVT once as a rental while my car was in the shop and I think the most standout feature to me was that the whole car would rock back and forth if you had the windshield wipers on max and weren't moving. You definitely don't want one of these with a CVT, it felt like pressing the accelerator down was just a noise machine, the car would accelerate at the same leisurely pace no matter what you did.

[@Offensively-normal]

All the things your car doesn't have, you didn't have to pay for. They also won't break or need replacing. I also think this car will take you places you want or need to go. Happy motoring.

[@CommodoreFan64]

The only thing I could see this car adding as a nice to have is Android audio, but it's not really a huge deal if you get a good phone mount, and use the bluetooth feature it has.

[@johanslabbert2869]

Long time subscriber here. I always watch all your videos but I especially enjoy the automotive content. Great buy! I’m a huge fan of “basic” transportation, having owned a few bare bones entry level vehicles myself. The Nissan seems like a well thought out package. The only criticism I can think of is the lack of remote operation for the central locking. Fumbling with keys will just always be less convenient, and in the long run locks do wear out and get sticky. I’m sure this omission can be remedied in the aftermarket relatively easily and cheaply though. On that note, you might find good benefit in sourcing and fitting the correct tweeters for the sound system. Despite the decent quality factory system, playing sound at your ankles will never be ideal :) Some of the equipment fitted is seriously impressive. The safety tech for example, nice to have cruise control and auto lights as well! I’m in favour of manual aircon too. Most automatic climate control systems are a little too responsive for my liking, almost frantic in some cases. I absolutely love the 15” steel wheels! It should give a very comfortable ride and you don’t have to worry about pothole damage. I hope the wheel trims are of the type that stays attached properly though. Decent halogen headlights are underrated nowadays. True, the more modern LED / HID lights are brighter, but something halogen has on its side is a near perfect colour rendering index by default. It lets you see more things more easily at night. Great video, thanks. Wishing you many happy motoring miles ahead!

[@Paul-qz8he]

My Mazda2 has the same independent gauge cluster light sensor, but you can override it by turning the trip button (in your car it has the same symbol next to it).

[@joshhoman]

One of my neighbors has one of them, cute little toys.

[@chinna9056]

I'm glad you made the upgrade to the Versa. I've owned my Versa since February. 2024 it's very good on gas. and the only problem I have Is the steel beam suspension on the back? It makes the car drives very rough. but otherwise It's a good car. There are too many Gremlins with German cars. Never ever by German again.

[@JB-mk4ry]

Happy 2025 bud! Still remember you from the last century on Vwvortex :)

[@fmphotooffice5513]

Nice. As long as you don't find QC problems, it's a winner. The QC thing can't be worse than VW QC. Best of luck to you.

[@gstcomputing65]

I just checked my local dealership. They have several 2024s but they are all priced at $19,999 and up. I will consider taking one for a test drive.

[@happyphilosopher596]

Congratulations on your new car! I loved the review. Wishing you many cheap & cheerful miles!

[@scott8919]

I hope this isn't taken the wrong way but at 15:45 I appreciate actually putting a face to the voice. If you're not fond of being in front of a camera I respect that, but it would be nice to see more talking head footage in future videos.

[@NJRoadfan]

He has been in front of the camera in other videos. Some of us have even met him in person.

[@Psythik]

Yeah seriously; I'm surprised you're the only one excited about the face reveal.

[@georgebowben3223]

On the upside he didn't jam the camera in his face with another ''What's up KZbin ?'' blather for half the vid. Clean clear review of the Versa.

[@Gazdatronik]

My '13 Fiesta S 5speed was one of the best driving cars I ever had. Only option it had was hill hold. It got rear-ended and then I was sad. Got a 07 Cobalt LS 5speed to replace it and appreciate the extra horsepowers. When I drive the Wife's Van or my '91 full size wagon, it feels like I am pushing elephants uphill. Hopefully that Versa was built on a Wednesday and it'll serve you for years to come.

[@BigCar2]

Grab handles. I don't have those on my expensive Tesla Model 3!

[@JonnyBlueChair]

Big Car!!!

[@scialyticsteve]

We used to call them "Oh Shit!" handles

[@honestguy7764]

Nice to see you hanging here!

[@andrewwang8204]

The way that car companies has convinced and fooled people into them thinking needing bigger cars really killed off a breed of fun, tossible, cheap to run nuggets. I drive an '07 GD Honda fit, I realized how little this car has more than my car, I also realize how little more I would need in my fit. Sure, a front dome light will be nice since mine doesn't come with one, but a peppy, 100 odd horsepower engine on a lightweight car paired with a 5-speed manual with smart rear folding seats with some decently well set up suspension is the final answer to the gods Chariot. Unpretentious, frugal, and incredibly fun. Driving your slow car 10/10 everywhere means starting through traffic feels like a much more engaged activity than having a large cumbersome SUV doing the same thing. And for the people who say I need to store more stuff in the back, I had a full size, twin door fridge in the back of my fit during a move and I wonder what is bigger than that that you need to transport. Some say I want to drive faster so I need a sports car with a lot of power. Before you get that sports car, get a fit, do some track days in it, do some autocross. It's one of the best cars to learn how to drive a faster car from a car that won't fight back, and won't behave unnaturally like snap over steering in a Miata, let alone an S2000 or a mid engine sports car. It is truly a sad day to see the death of this genre of car.

[@BADMAN-SJ]

What should I get Honda fit manual or versa manual?

[@freespirit1975]

3200 rpm at 70mph is high-that should reduce engine longevity. I looked and can only find a black version within 200 miles of me, and I don't like black cars-that blue is very nice and I'd buy one. You forgot to mention one other feature that it has-the passive anti-theft device, aka manual transmission. I'm getting so sentimental for a manual that I'd love to find a very good condition Ford Maverick with three on a tree and a straight six resting and covered with dust in some barn somewhere.

[@ParallelSyntax]

I can see these appreciating as there's a good market for those who just want 'an car'. Such a shame we don't get this in the UK. Pitty Nissan has found itself under new ownership. At least this time it's with a decent brand.

[@steviebboy69]

This car would be state of the art compared to the old Leyland Mini I had, it was as basic as they come. Think of the Mr Bean car it was like that except it had a boxy front being the Clubman. It was very LOUD as it had extractors and 3 " straight through exhaust. They had a huge steering wheel almost like a small bus and no power steering at all hehe. It seems strange to see that funny white powder at either side of the road, I have never seen that before.

[@chinna9056]

It has the both of them it has. GDI which is gasoline direct injection, and it has port injection.

[@Random_Palmetto]

You may have made a mistake….. I know the Versa….. it’s what made my entire family quit buying Nissan. I like the 5 speed but knowing what I know now I’d rather have a Toyota. Just my humble opinion if you like it and it works for you then you like it and it works for you. Hope it works out and they improved their previous issues. Happy new year!

[@CommodoreFan64]

Agreed I'd take a Toyota all day long, as I have a 2022 model Toyota Highlander for the family, but having said that it seems Honda, and Nissan are merging to form one company, so there is hope Nissan benefits from Honda, and becomes more reliable in the future 🤷‍♂

[@ShaiyanHossain]

theres no equivalent toyota left unless he gets a used one

[@LyleBialk]

How to make a comment without really saying anything helpful or informative.

[@Nutz0]

@Random_Palmetto toyota doesn't sell a manual on their base models anymore. you have to get the the corolla gr which is a performance model.