A better Fit? The 2015 Nissan Versa Note SR [First Impressions]

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Looking pretty sleek in blue, the 2015 Nissan Versa Note SR is a MUCH better car than the regular Nissan Versa. It looks better, drives better and, with the hatcback configuration, it’s more utilitarian.

The consesus at TFLcar is that the new Honda Fit is the best all-around car in its class. Still, the 2015 Nissan Note is a viable alternative for those who want more useable passenger space and a cheaper price. It’s mighty thrifty too.

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When equipped with the 109 horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine – that makes 107 lbs-feet of torque, and the continuously variable tranmission (CVT) the 2015 Nissan Versa Note gets a combined 35 mpg. That is very impressive considering how close that is to many (much more expensive) hybrids on the market.

Speaking of inepensive, the 2015 Nissan Versa Note starts at $14,180. Sure, that’s $2,190 more than the Nissan Versa Sedan – but it’s worth it. Despite that premium, it’s still a very cheap car. My well optioned SR has a base price of $17,530.

It’s one of the best deals out there considering the content.

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My tester was an SR and it had 16″ machined aluminum-alloy wheels, sport fascias, side sills and spoiler with Z-inspired leather-wrapped sport steering wheel a unique grille and dark headlight treatment. The 2015 Nissan Versa Note SR also has premium sport synthetic suede seat trim with orange accents and stitching. It’s kind of cool.

Some of the cost-cutting can easily be seen with the use of interior materials. Nissan still trails the competition when it comes to the use of cheap-feeling, interior materials. Fortunately, the seats are very comefortable and the ergonomics are better than the Honda Fits.

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Interior space is what this bracket is all about and the 2015 Nissan Versa Note has a lot of it. With 18.8 cubic-feet of cargo spce behind the rear seats (which is more than the Honda Fit), and 38.3 cu-ft with the rear seats folded, (which is less than the Fit) the Nissan Versa Note is externally larger than the Honda Fit in nearly every dimension.

Obviously, a car buzzing with just 109 horsepower is going to be slow. The 2015 Nissan Versa Note is slow. Passing takes some pre-planning and the Versa Note gets pretty pokey when loaded with passengers.

Still, as a comfortable commuter, it’s pretty comfortable. I think that’s the strongest point I can make for the Nissan Versa Note, it’s a simple, good, comfortable car.

It’s pretty cheap too.

It’s not a better “Fit,” it’s nowhere near as sophisticated or utilitarian. The Fit is a much more enjoyable car to drive in many ways. Still, the 2015 Nissan Versa Note is no slouch.

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I wish I had a chance to sample the manual version.

Now, if Nissan ever dumped the turbo four-banger that resides in the Juke in this car (it should fit) then we’re cooking with oil!

Speaking of cooking… on a racetrack…

Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism - Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum.  His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.
Easily amused by anything with four wheels, Nathan Adlen reviews vehicles from the cheapest to the most prestigious. Wrecking yards, dealer lots, garages, racetracks, professional automotive testing and automotive journalism – Nathan has experienced a wide range of the automotive spectrum. His words, good humor and videos are enjoyed worldwide.