The 2019 Nissan Versa 1.6L 4-cyl gets 34 MPG combined, which shows its main goal: affordable and economical transportation. This isn’t a vehicle created for exciting performance or luxury. It’s ideal for budget-conscious buyers who want cost-effectiveness, and its fuel economy is a big selling point. Students, commuters, and people who simply need reliable transportation from place to place without spending a lot of money often buy this Versa. They choose this car knowing its limitations, and the fuel efficiency helps make up for what it lacks elsewhere.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Nissan Versa gets 31 MPG in the city and 39 MPG on the highway. These numbers are possible because of its efficient 1.6L four-cylinder engine and the continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT keeps the engine operating in its most efficient range. In city driving, the Versa’s lightweight design and limited power help it use less fuel, allowing it to handle stop-and-go traffic without using too much gas. On the highway, that nearly 40 MPG figure makes it a good long-distance option for those willing to trade some comfort for significant savings at the gas station. The 39 MPG highway rating is particularly attractive to commuters who spend a lot of time on the open road.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Nissan Versa 1.6L 4-cyl is $1,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may be different based on your driving habits, the roads you drive on, and local fuel prices. The $1,300 estimate is a guide to understanding the Versa’s long-term running costs. For buyers on a tight budget, this consistent and relatively low fuel cost is a key selling point, especially compared to larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles.

Real-world expectations

The EPA ratings are a good guide, but real-world fuel economy can vary. However, the 2019 Versa usually performs close to its EPA estimates. Drivers who accelerate gently and maintain consistent speeds are more likely to get the advertised MPG. Aggressive driving, frequent hard braking, and excessive idling will hurt fuel economy. The Versa’s light weight and limited power also mean it can be affected by wind resistance, so driving in strong headwinds can reduce MPG, especially at highway speeds. Careful drivers can expect to see numbers close to 31 MPG in city driving and near 39 MPG on the highway.

How it compares

The 2019 Nissan Versa’s fuel economy compares well to some of its competitors in the subcompact segment. The 2019 Toyota Yaris gets 32 MPG combined, and the Honda Fit, known for its practicality, gets about 33 MPG combined. The Kia Rio, another popular choice, only reaches about 32 MPG combined. These differences might seem small, but they can add up, making the Versa a slightly more economical choice for some buyers looking for the best VERSA MPG across all years. To see all Nissan fuel economy data, you can explore other models in the lineup and see how they compare.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration helps optimize fuel economy in the 2019 Versa. The CVT is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but sudden acceleration makes the engine work harder and use more fuel. Focus on smooth acceleration to minimize fuel consumption, especially in city driving.

Maintain a steady speed on the highway. Using cruise control (if equipped) helps prevent speed changes that can affect fuel economy. Avoiding speeding is also important, as fuel efficiency decreases at higher speeds. A consistent pace will result in the best highway MPG.

Proper tire inflation is important for optimal fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and make sure they are inflated to the recommended pressure, which is on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel.

Reduce weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds weight, which increases the engine’s load and reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk or backseat to lighten the load. This is important for a small car like the Versa.