Wrapped in no-frills utilitarian styling, the Versa sedan is touted as being the lowest price car that is sold in the United States, although that price gets you only a barren base sedan, with crank-up windows and no radio. That's no matter, because other versions remain reasonably priced and perform up to our expectations. A tall roofline provides surprisingly spacious interior room. Hatchback versions are our top choice because of their added versatility. A feeble but frugal 107-hp, 1.6-liter engine propels the base sedan, but the hatchbacks and higher-trim-level sedans come with a 1.8-liter version that delivers 122 horses. Either way, the Versa isn't exactly built for speed. Transmission choices include five- and six-speed manuals, a four-speed automatic and a gearless continuously variable transmission (CVT). Various high-tech gizmos are optional on top SL models, although you should be forewarned that a fully fitted model can cost nearly twice as much as that lowest price Versa.

* 2009 PRICES. 2010 PRICES NOT ANNOUNCED AT PRESS TIME