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2018 Nissan Versa: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 13, 2026
The 2018 Nissan Versa is a light-update model, led by a newer 7-inch touchscreen on late 2018.5 cars. Earlier 2018 versions received only small equipment and trim changes, with no mechanical overhaul.
About the 2018 Nissan Versa
Versa sedan: second generation (2012-2019), late-cycle year. Versa Note hatchback: first U.S.-market generation (2014-2019), second year after its 2017 styling update.
Nissan positions the Versa as the practical small car with more usable room than its footprint suggests. The sedan leans on a very low entry price, strong fuel economy, and a large trunk, while the Versa Note hatch adds flexible cargo space and an easy-to-park shape. Across both body styles, the core appeal is simple, efficient daily transportation with straightforward controls and passenger space that feels bigger than many subcompacts.
The 2018 Versa family includes the straightforward Versa sedan and the more flexible Versa Note hatchback, with S serving as the basic entry trim and SV adding everyday conveniences such as power windows, cruise control, and remote keyless entry. The sedan’s S Plus pairs an automatic transmission with cruise control and a rear spoiler, while the Note SR adds 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, push-button start, and sportier cabin trim without extra engine power.
What changed, by category
Tech
Late 2018.5 sedan and Versa Note models received a newer 7-inch touchscreen audio system with Bluetooth, USB connectivity, hands-free text messaging, and Siri Eyes Free.
2018 Nissan Versa specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, CVT w/Xtronic / Manual, 5-Spd | Auto, CVT w/Xtronic | Auto, CVT w/Xtronic | Automatic, CVT w/Xtronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 27–31 mpg | 31 mpg | 31 mpg | 31 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 36–39 mpg | 39 mpg | 39 mpg | 39 mpg |
| Horsepower | 109 hp | 109 hp | 109 hp | 109 hp |
| Torque | 107 lb-ft | 107 lb-ft | 107 lb-ft | 107 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 14.9–18.8 cu-ft | 18.8 cu-ft | 14.9–18.8 cu-ft | 14.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 37–38.3 in | 38.3 in | 37–38.3 in | 37 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Folding Rear Seat | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Locks | ||||
| Power Windows | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Does every 2018 Nissan Versa have the updated 7-inch touchscreen?
No. The updated 7-inch touchscreen arrived on late 2018.5 cars, while earlier 2018 versions have the older audio hardware. The newer system adds Bluetooth, USB connectivity, hands-free text messaging, and Siri Eyes Free.
What changed on the 2018 Nissan Versa sedan before the 2018.5 touchscreen update?
The 2018 Versa sedan received adjustable front head restraints, front map lights, and variable intermittent windshield wipers. Otherwise, it was largely unchanged before the late-year touchscreen update.
Which trim was dropped from the 2018 Nissan Versa Note lineup?
The SL trim was dropped from the 2018 Versa Note lineup, leaving S, SV, and SR. The hatchback’s former S Plus badge was also simplified to S.
Did the 2018 Nissan Versa get a new engine or transmission?
No. The 2018 Versa kept the same 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and existing transmission choices, so this was not a mechanical update.
Is the 2018 Nissan Versa Note SR a performance model?
No. The 2018 Versa Note SR is a sport-styled trim, not a more powerful version. It uses the same engine while adding fog lights, side sills, a rear spoiler, 16-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, and sportier interior trim.
2018 Nissan Versa Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Nissan Versa.
3.8
2018 Nissan Versa
(185 reviews)
“It's affordable on gas but the connectivity of bluetooth is a pain and also the sound is not so great. But it's a great first car!”
“My Nissan Versa is a fun, sporty car which I am enjoying driving, as a first time Nissan owner. I wish it had more storage in between the 2 front seats and I wish the quality of the floor mats was better (they tend to shed).”
Sources
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2018 / 2018 Versa Sedan Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2018 5 / 2018 Nissan Versasedan En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2018 5 / 2018 5 Versa Note Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2019 / 2019 Versa Note Brochure En
- nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2019 / 2019 Nissan Versasedan Brochure En
- es.nissanusa.com — Vehicle Brochures / 2017 / 2017 Nissan Versa Note Brochure En