Commuting doesn’t have to be boring and for 2015, Nissan has added new character to the compact Versa Note lineup. This new model gets a step up to make things more interesting on the drive around town. The Nissan Versa Note SR has the same personality, but gets new makeup to set it apart from its siblings and can be considered the better-looking model with the new upgrades.
This week we tested the 2015 Nissan Versa Note SR compact hatchback ($17,530).
What’s New for 2015?
The Nissan Versa Note adds new SR and SL trim levels for the 2015 model year. The new trim levels are priced at the top of the lineup and get new sporty cosmetics that set them apart from the other three trims.
2015 Nissan Versa Note SR Features and Options
On the outside, the new SR trim features cosmetics like a modified front fascia, headlights with smoked lenses, standard fog lights, lower body color rocker panel extensions, side mirrors with integrated turn signals and a unique rear roof spoiler. Exclusive sport machined-finished dark 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels wrapped in 195/55R all season tires are a nice bonus. On the inside, the sporty-looking SR trim features a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, suede upholstery, sport front seats and a rear-seat center armrest with cup holders.
This SR tester came with the Convenience Package ($660) that adds a 5-inch touchscreen, a rear view camera, satellite radio, Bluetooth audio connectivity, hands-free text messaging and Divide-N-Hide adjustable floor.
Total MSRP including destination $19,180.
Interior Features
Stepping inside the Nissan Versa Note SR reveals a cabin that feels much bigger than the compact car looks on the outside. Even the backseat is roomy and can handle two adults for extended trips.
The SR interior upgrades make the cabin feel a bit more upscale with the simulated suede-trimmed seats, complete with orange accents and double stitching.
The piano black center dash panel, silver trim accents and chrome interior door handles and accents all add to the sportiness.
The Nissan Versa Note SR is a five-door hatch and features plenty of flexibility for urban drivers. There is a respectable 18.8 cubic feet of storage behind the rear seats. This SR tester came with the optional Divide-N-Hide adjustable floor that is a necessity for those who carry electronics for their work.
The adjustable cargo area floor allows for thin objects (laptop bags and boxes) to be stored under the floor and out of sight, allowing larger items to be placed on top. The divider also can be dropped or removed completely for more space for additional items.
With the rear seats lowered flat, the Nissan Versa Note offers 38.3 cubic feet of cargo carrying ability.
Engine and Fuel Mileage Specs
Nissan Versa Note SR comes with the same fuel-stingy 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via the Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Nissan Versa Notes are EPA-rated at 31/40 city/highway and combined fuel mileage is 35 mpg.
Driving Dynamics
We drove the new Versa Note SR in the high altitude of Colorado and pushed the compact car hard during our week of testing. We felt it was under powered and could use more “ummph” to get up the hills west of Denver. Around town, the compact hatch is a very capable commuter and maneuvers easily through traffic.
The small 1.6-liter engine is capable for urban lifestyles and the five-door offers the kind of utility that is ideal for active millennials.
The automatic CVT transmission is smooth and low-key around town, but it is a typical CVT that revs up when you mash the pedal down. That’s just life in the fast lane when paired to a small powerplant. When you do reach higher speeds, the transmission revs drop down and the ride is quiet and enjoyable.
Just coming out of a Lexis IS250 luxury car last week, we had to keep in mind, this is an affordable compact car and we shouldn’t expect a luxury feel. Overall, the Versa Note excels at getting you were you need to go in the city efficiently and without issue.
Conclusion:
The new 2015 Nissan Versa Note SR steps up the image of the Versa Note both inside and out. The added exterior features give the small compact hatch a more sporty character. Inside, the addition of premium convenience features like keyless entry, a 360-degree backup camera and mirrors with integrated turn signals are nice touches for a car priced less than $20,000.
What do you think of the 2015 Nissan Versa Note SR? Tell us here.
2015 Nissan Versa Note SR Photo Gallery
Photo Credit: Nissan USA
