35 MPG combined is the headline for the 2022 Nissan Versa 1.6L, and that number is exactly what makes it appealing. This isn’t a sporty sedan disguised as an economy car. This is basic, affordable transportation that uses very little fuel, and its target buyer prioritizes price and operating costs.

City and highway performance

The Versa’s 32 MPG city rating comes from its small 1.6L four-cylinder engine, which works perfectly well in cities where speeds are lower and less power is needed. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) keeps the engine in its most efficient operating range, maximizing fuel economy.

On the highway, the Versa gets 40 MPG, a respectable number for a non-hybrid vehicle. While some might find the engine working harder at highway speeds, the CVT makes the most of the available power and optimizes fuel consumption even at 70+ MPH.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Nissan Versa 1.6L at $1,250. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, city versus highway driving, and local fuel prices. The $1,250 figure provides a useful benchmark and highlights the Versa’s strength: It’s cheap to fuel. For budget-minded buyers, this represents real savings compared to less efficient vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures are a standardized measure of fuel economy, real-world results can be different. The Versa’s 35 MPG combined is achievable for most drivers, but aggressive acceleration or consistently high speeds may lower that number. Driving carefully, sticking to speed limits, and minimizing hard braking can potentially exceed the EPA estimates. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and the use of accessories like air conditioning can also influence fuel economy.

How it compares

The Versa’s fuel economy compares well against its competitors in the subcompact segment. The Mitsubishi Mirage G4, for example, achieves 37 MPG combined, slightly edging out the Versa. The Mirage often feels even more underpowered. While the Kia Rio offers a combined 36 MPG, the Versa often costs less. Older cars like the Honda Fit, before it was discontinued, sometimes achieved higher MPG figures in real-world tests, but that is no longer an option for new-car buyers. The Versa offers reasonable fuel economy within its class, but it’s not the absolute leader, which reflects a balance between price, features, and fuel efficiency that appeals to its core customer. To explore all Nissan fuel economy data, there are resources available, and to see VERSA MPG across all years is also enlightening to understand trends and variations.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize aggressive driving. The Versa’s CVT responds best to smooth, steady acceleration. Avoid sudden bursts of speed or hard braking. Watch the traffic and maintain a consistent speed. This is important in city driving, where stop-and-go traffic can reduce fuel economy.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. A small tire pressure gauge is a simple way to ensure your tires are always properly inflated.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight puts additional strain on the engine, reducing fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger cabin. Clearing out just 50-100 pounds can create a noticeable improvement, especially in the city.

Use cruise control on the highway. When driving on the highway, cruise control can help maintain a consistent speed and optimizes fuel efficiency. Avoid using cruise control in hilly areas, as the vehicle may downshift frequently, negating the fuel-saving benefits. Also, use the Versa’s ECO mode. The Versa isn’t particularly fast, so there’s little penalty to using this function which tweaks throttle and transmission mapping for additional savings.