2009 Nissan Versa

Upon its introduction, the Versa somehow got grouped in with Asian subcompacts like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, and Suzuki SX4. Maybe it's because of the Versa's hatchback body (a sedan followed later); the continued existence of the Sentra probably played a factor as well. But to be sure, the Versa belongs to a bigger, more mature segment than those little zippers.

Specifically, Nissan seems to be aiming squarely at the Toyota Corolla and Matrix. It's got the same body styles, a similar 1.8-liter engine, rides on economy-grade tires, and uses a simple torsion beam rear suspension. Coupled with somewhat slow steering and lazy handling, the Versa obviously isn't the most energetic little runabout, but it's got enough performance and refinement to meet class standards. One bonus: if you order the Versa in the SL version, you get Nissan's CVT, the smoothest, smartest automatic transmission available at this price range (more efficient, too -- the Versa scores 28 MPG). Likewise, the Versa's stickshift is a 6-speed, one gear more than the compact car norm.

The Versa continues the "more" theme on the inside. The cabin feels open and airy thanks to the high roof, and the back seat borders on gigantic, with more legroom than in Nissan's own Maxima. The seats aren't all that supportive, though, and an octogenarian style scheme keeps the cabin feeling functional rather than special. Still, the controls are well-designed, and many will like Nissan's optional Intelligent Key feature, which lets you open the doors and start the car with the remote in your pocket.

If you're indifferent about the Versa so far, Nissan's unusually modest pricing might change your mind. In SL trim with the automatic, the Versa only reaches into the $16K range -- a good three grand down on most Japanese competitors. Even considering that the Versa's reliability is a notch below them, it's definitely a deal.