2019 Nissan Versa Note

With 2019 being the last model year in the life-cycle of the Versa Note, the humble and efficient hatchback variant of the Versa sedan attempts a final curtain call in this guise. Still equipped with the same lackluster 1.6-liter engine and delivering a meager 109 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque, the Note offers the same weak performance and low price tag it has before. Still, it does have the benefit of a more appealing visage and, with a spacious interior and impressive storage space, the hatchback serves well as a day-to-day vehicle for those who place affordability above all else. However, features remain minimal, even on the top-most trim, and comfort is only a peripheral concern. With rivals like the Honda Fit and Ford Fiesta boasting similar spaciousness, significantly better performance, and many more standard features, the Versa Note is a hard sell.

The Nissan Versa is one of the most affordable hatchbacks on the market, with a starting MSRP of $15,650. The mid-range SV trim bumps this price up to $16,550, but it does add a few nice features to the otherwise spartan base S trim, and even more, if you add the $735 Special Edition Package. The top-tier S trim starts at $18,360. These prices exclude tax, registration, licensing, and Nissan's $895 destination fee. With the Note scheduled for discontinuation after the 2019 year model, dealerships may be open to more negotiation than usual and you could pick up a great deal if you're willing to negotiate.

The handling on the Versa Note leaves much to be desired. The steering is slow and uncommunicative, and while it handles corners well enough in town, it doesn't inspire any confidence if you try to take even a mild curve at higher speeds. The brakes are firm and responsive too, but they aren't particularly strong, taking 128 ft to bring the car to a stop from 60 mph.

Ride comfort is neither here nor there, with quick errands around town managed without concern. Long drives will most certainly be less pleasant. In traffic, the Note's small size means it maneuvers well and can park almost anywhere with ease, but cross-winds can be problematic, especially on highways and at speed. Overall, the Note is a passable hatchback in the sense that it gets the job done, but you may still want to pass it over in favor of one of its better-handling rivals.

The Versa Note is a good car if your priority is simply to have a cheap mode of transportation with decent cargo-hauling capabilities. If you want anything more than that, then the hatchback will fall short in just about every area.

With one of the weakest engines in the segment, the Note won't offer any thrills on the road, especially when you consider its middling handling. The suspension takes bumps in its stride, but the cabin's distinct lack of quality materials or comfort features make for an absolutely mediocre ride. This is compounded by an infotainment system that is bare-bones on the base model, and only passable on the top trim. The Note also lacks any driver assistance features, with passenger safety relying on ABS brakes, traction control, and a rearview camera.

All of this comes together to create a vehicle that's as dull as dishwater. But, with a low price, ample cargo capacity, and a spacious interior, the Note isn't without its advantages. Sadly, rivals like the Honda Fit are far more charming, offering so much more, for a very similar price. When placed beside these rivals, the Nissan Versa Note is a hard sell.

While the base Note S is the cheapest option, it is sorely lacking in features. Opting for the SV trim won't break the bank, even if you add the Special Edition Package. For just $17,275, you get a decent daily driver with impressive cargo capacity and the extra Divide-N-Hide adjustable floor. The Special Edition Package also adds fog lights, keyless ignition, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, giving you a bit more value for your money.

With identical performance values and almost identical features, there isn't much to compare between the two body styles of the Versa. The Note does cost a bit more, but in return, you get a hatchback with a slightly smaller footprint and superior internal space. Cargo capacity is significantly better, and the Note is easier to maneuver on town roads. It doesn't hurt that the Note also looks better than its sedan sibling, with a much sportier profile. Considering the Versa is really only a buy for someone who can't afford to shell out a little more for something better, the sedan might outclass the hatchback on price, but the Note is the better choice if you can afford it.

The Versa Note sits at the bottom of the subcompact hatchback segment, while the Honda Fit is, arguably, at the very top. If that isn't saying enough, here are the reasons why: the Fit offers a stronger 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 130 hp and 114 lb-ft, yet manages to be significantly more fuel-efficient. Additionally, it handles much better on the road. Comparing the interiors of the two hatchbacks is also like comparing slate to marble - the Honda is far more luxurious, offering significantly more comfort and many more standard features. Sadly, its infotainment offering is not much better than the Note's. Ultimately, with more power, better handling, better comfort, and comparable cargo space, the Honda Fit is the obvious choice. At a slightly higher purchase cost than the Note, the Fit's starting price of $16,190 still identifies it as a very affordable vehicle.