Nissan versa vs. volkswagen voyage: battle of the affordable sedans

The Nissan Versa and Volkswagen Voyage are two popular subcompact sedans that offer a blend of affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. However, deciding which one is the better choice can be a challenge. This article will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Nissan Versa vs Volkswagen Voyage, analyzing their key features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Exterior

Nissan Versa: The Nissan Versa boasts a sleek and modern design with sharp lines and a sloping roofline. Its front fascia features a V-shaped grille and angular headlights, giving it a sporty and aggressive appearance.

Volkswagen Voyage: The Volkswagen Voyage, on the other hand, has a more conservative and understated design. Its exterior is characterized by clean lines, a wide grille, and rectangular headlights. While it may not be as flashy as the Versa, the Voyage exudes a timeless elegance.

Interior and Space

Nissan Versa: Inside, the Nissan Versa offers a spacious and well-equipped cabin. The dashboard is laid out intuitively, and the materials used are of decent quality. The front seats provide ample legroom and headroom, while the rear seats can accommodate three passengers comfortably.

Volkswagen Voyage: The Volkswagen Voyage’s interior is slightly smaller than the Versa’s, but it still provides a comfortable and functional space. The dashboard is simple and easy to use, and the build quality is impressive. The front seats offer good support, but the rear seats may feel a bit cramped for taller passengers.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Nissan Versa: The Nissan Versa is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT automatic transmission. The Versa’s fuel economy is impressive, with an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway with the CVT transmission.

Volkswagen Voyage: The Volkswagen Voyage is equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 105 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission. The Voyage’s fuel economy is slightly lower than the Versa’s, with an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway with the automatic transmission.

Features and Technology

Nissan Versa: The Nissan Versa offers a range of features and technologies, including a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a rearview camera, and lane departure warning. Higher trim levels add features such as navigation, heated front seats, and a Bose premium audio system.

Volkswagen Voyage: The Volkswagen Voyage’s features are more limited compared to the Versa. It comes standard with a 5-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels include features such as a 6.5-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a premium audio system.

Safety

Nissan Versa: The Nissan Versa received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a “Good” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It comes standard with a full suite of airbags, traction control, and stability control.

Volkswagen Voyage: The Volkswagen Voyage received a four-star safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating from IIHS. It also comes standard with a comprehensive safety package, including airbags, traction control, and stability control.

Price and Value

Nissan Versa: The Nissan Versa has a starting price of $16,650 for the base S trim level. Higher trim levels can reach up to $22,650. The Versa offers a good value for the money, with a spacious cabin, impressive fuel economy, and a range of features.

Volkswagen Voyage: The Volkswagen Voyage has a starting price of $17,995 for the base S trim level. Higher trim levels can go up to $24,995. While the Voyage is slightly more expensive than the Versa, it boasts a higher level of build quality, a more refined interior, and a solid safety rating.

Which One is Right for You?

The choice between the Nissan Versa and Volkswagen Voyage ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel economy, a spacious cabin, and a wide range of features, the Nissan Versa is an excellent option. However, if you value build quality, a more refined interior, and a higher level of safety, the Volkswagen Voyage may be a better choice.

Summary

The Nissan Versa and Volkswagen Voyage are both solid subcompact sedans with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Versa offers a more spacious cabin, impressive fuel economy, and a wide range of features, while the Voyage boasts a higher level of build quality, a more refined interior, and a solid safety rating. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this comparison, you can determine which sedan best meets your needs and provides the best overall value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which car has better fuel economy, the Nissan Versa or Volkswagen Voyage?

A: The Nissan Versa has better fuel economy than the Volkswagen Voyage. The Versa gets up to 40 mpg on the highway, while the Voyage gets up to 35 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which car has a more spacious interior, the Nissan Versa or Volkswagen Voyage?

A: The Nissan Versa has a more spacious interior than the Volkswagen Voyage. The Versa offers more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats.

Q: Which car has a higher safety rating, the Nissan Versa or Volkswagen Voyage?

A: Both the Nissan Versa and Volkswagen Voyage have good safety ratings. The Versa received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating from IIHS, while the Voyage received a four-star safety rating from NHTSA and a “Good” rating from IIHS.