2009 Nissan Versa: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Nissan Versa is the addition of a lower-cost sedan with a 1.6-liter engine. Beyond the expanded trim range, the first-generation Versa carries over without a redesign or major technology update.
About the 2009 Nissan Versa
1st generation Versa (C11), third model year, before the mild 2010 refresh.
Nissan positioned the Versa as the roomy, value-focused small car in its lineup. Its biggest selling point was space: Nissan repeatedly highlighted class-leading passenger room and generous rear legroom, along with low ownership costs and the choice of sedan or hatchback body styles. Compared with rivals, the Versa leaned more toward comfort, practicality, and everyday usability than sporty handling or flashy features.
The 2009 lineup spans a basic 1.6-liter sedan, the everyday 1.8 S, and more convenience-focused SL versions in sedan and hatchback form. The Base keeps things simple with manual windows and locks and no factory radio, while the S adds air conditioning and a CD stereo. The SL brings power accessories, cruise control, alloy wheels, and upgraded audio, while the SL FE Plus pairs that equipment with a fuel-economy-focused CVT hatchback layout.
What changed, by category
2009 Nissan Versa specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, CVT | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 26 mpg | 24–27 mpg | 26 mpg | 27 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 31 mpg | 32–33 mpg | 34 mpg | 33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 122 hp | 122 hp | 107 hp | 122 hp |
| Torque | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft | 111 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.8–17.8 cu-ft | 13.8–17.8 cu-ft | 13.8 cu-ft | 17.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| AM/FM Radio | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Locks | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2009 Nissan Versa?
The biggest change is a new entry-level sedan powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. It expands the Versa range below the stronger 1.8-liter versions.
Was the 2009 Nissan Versa redesigned?
No, the 2009 Nissan Versa was not redesigned. It remains part of the first generation and carries over the same basic body styles and layout, with the main update being an expanded trim and engine range.
How does the 2009 Versa Base differ from the 1.8 S?
The 2009 Versa Base is the simpler model, with a 1.6-liter engine, manual windows and locks, and no factory radio. The 1.8 S has a larger engine, air conditioning, a CD stereo, power mirrors, and a more finished cloth interior.
What is special about the 2009 Versa SL FE Plus?
The 2009 Versa SL FE Plus is the efficiency-focused version of the better-equipped hatchback. It combines a CVT automatic transmission with SL-style features such as alloy wheels, power accessories, upgraded audio, and a split-folding rear seat.
Is the 2009 Versa substantially different from the 2008 model?
No, the 2009 Versa is not substantially different overall. Its main advantage over the 2008 model is the broader lineup led by the basic 1.6-liter sedan; the design and overall feature strategy otherwise carry over.