2010 Nissan Versa: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2010 Nissan Versa is standard ABS with added braking assistance on the 1.8 S and 1.8 SL trims. This is a light refresh, not a redesign, with updated exterior and interior details across the lineup.
About the 2010 Nissan Versa
1st generation Versa (C11), fourth model year, light refresh year.
Nissan sold the Versa as a small car built around space and value more than sportiness. Its main appeal was simple: adult-friendly rear-seat room, a soft ride, low running costs, and either sedan trunk space or hatchback cargo flexibility in a compact footprint. Higher trims added nicer convenience features, but the core idea stayed the same across the range — a practical, roomy commuter that felt bigger inside than its price and size suggested.
The base sedan remains simple transportation with a 1.6-liter engine, while the mainstream 1.8 S adds air conditioning and a stronger 122-hp engine. The comfort-focused 1.8 SL brings alloy wheels, cruise control, power accessories, stability control, and traction control; the SL hatchback also has fog lights and sport-styled exterior pieces as standard equipment.
What changed, by category
2010 Nissan Versa specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, CVT | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 26 mpg | 24–28 mpg | 26 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 31 mpg | 32–34 mpg | 34 mpg |
| Horsepower | 122 hp | 122 hp | 107 hp |
| Torque | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft | 111 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 13.8–17.8 cu-ft | 13.8–17.8 cu-ft | 13.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Anti-Lock Brakes | |||
| Cruise Control | |||
| Stability Control | |||
| Traction Control | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | |||
| AM/FM Radio | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Locks | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2010 Nissan Versa?
The biggest change is that the 1.8 S and 1.8 SL trims gain standard ABS with Electronic Brake force Distribution and Brake Assist. These systems help prevent wheel lockup and manage braking force during hard stops.
Was the 2010 Nissan Versa redesigned?
No, the 2010 Versa was not redesigned. It received a light refresh with a revised grille, new wheel treatments, and updates to its interior fabrics, trim, and gauges.
What changed on the 2010 Nissan Versa SL?
The 2010 Versa SL adds standard ABS, stability control, and traction control. SL hatchbacks also make fog lights and sport-styled exterior pieces standard, while all SL models receive the refreshed grille and interior updates.
Was the Versa SL FE Plus offered for 2010?
No, the SL FE Plus trim was dropped for the 2010 model year. The remaining lineup consists of the base sedan, 1.8 S, and 1.8 SL models.
Is the 2010 Nissan Versa meaningfully different from the 2009 model?
Yes, but the differences are modest. The 2010 model is most notable for added standard braking safety equipment on 1.8 S and SL trims, along with refreshed exterior and interior details; it remains part of the same first-generation design.