In the base form, the Versa is a decent amount of car for the money, but it can get kinda pricey in a more loaded up form. IMO, once you start to break that $17K range, that opens up a lot of other possibilites. The Matrix, even a fairly loaded 5-speed XR, can be had for not much more. The Mazda 5 wagon is a very versatile car that can seat 6 and get close to 30mpg highway and starts sub $18K. The Mazda 3 hatch is cool ride as well.

BTW, the clutch issue in the Matrix and Vibe is a little misleading. If you are cruising enthusiast forums like MatrixOwners.com or GenVibe, ect. you will hear about premature clutch failures. However, they're small numbers when you look at how many Matrix and Vibes have been sold in the last 4 years. The people that hang out on those sites account for but a fraction of total owners. And, quite frankly, tend to be a bit harder on their cars than the average person....that's just the plain truth.

Also, one other thing related to the Matrix/Vibe clutch issue. The few problems that there have been, effected mainly the XRS and GT 6-speed versions with the 2zz engine, not the base/XR trim levels with the 1zz engine. Over-zealous driving, lack of low-end torque and tall gearing are never a good combo for long clutch life....especially for inexperienced clutch drivers.

The base and XR are better buys anyway. They burn regular fuel, not premium like the XRS/GT and will net you mid to upper 30's for highway mileage....unlike the XRS which struggles to hit 30mpg.

 

Yep, you are right about the XRS and GT models. I heard the base models had few issues. The only thing I heard it from was an employee who said he may have been a bit "hard on it". However, I learned how to drive stick on my Grand Am and it wasn't babied at all and the clutch is just starting to go at 125,000 miles. I'm going to look at a Vibe this weekend and whatever else I can find.

 

You'll like the Vibe, trust me. It all depends on your budget. The xA is the best car (IMO) for the price range it's in. The Vibe is a bit more but in it's class and price range I think it's also the best.

 

backseat room is great. i just "tested it out" last saturday if you know what i mean. HIYOOOOOOOOOOOOOOoooooooo.

 

You put groceries back there?????

 

Well I bought a 2007 Versa S model this past Saturday. Mine is the base model but came with the power package and floor mats. I must say I'm not disappointed in it at all. My friend who is 6' 2" sat in back and his knees didn't touch the back of my seat which was back quite a bit. The 6 speed keeps it in the powerband easily and it really goes. Mileage is great and the dash is beautiful. I traded in my Grand Am for $1000 and the car was $13,352 out the door! Thanks for your advice on the xA. I never got the chance to test drive one but i think I'd be happier with the Versa due to the space and pickup.

 

Congrats!

 

Wow, great price. Too bad they didnt make the Versa look more like the concept Versa:


Post pics when you have a chance!

 

If back seat room is really important to you, consider an xB over an xA. The amount of room back there is insane on the xB. It's okay on a xA, but in the xB is insane.