MODEL
Nissan Versa Safety
NHTSA safety across every Nissan Versa model year we cover.
Across the 7 model years of the Nissan Versa we cover (2019 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2022 at 91 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 76. 8 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Nissan Versa is a subcompact sedan aimed squarely at budget-conscious commuters and first-time car buyers who need affordable, no-frills urban transportation. Now in its third generation, the Versa competes in one of the most price-sensitive segments in the American market, where buyers are weighing every dollar. MotorCaliber covers the 2019 through 2025 model years and puts its safety record under the microscope.
The 2022 Nissan Versa achieved an exceptional NHTSA Safety Index of 91 out of 100, a standout result for a subcompact sedan. This strong overall score is set against a more nuanced picture in crash-test geometry, particularly regarding frontal impact protection. While side-impact protection earned a solid 5 out of 5 stars, both frontal and rollover testing yielded a respectable 4 out of 5 stars. The four-star frontal crash rating is significant; frontal collisions are the most common and lethal type on American roads, indicating some room for improvement compared to top-rated vehicles. Across the 2019 to 2025 model years, the Versa has accumulated 8 recalls, a moderate count that prospective buyers should investigate thoroughly through NHTSA's database for any specific model year. Owner complaints total 272, including 15 alleged crashes and 11 alleged injuries. While these are unverified allegations, the reported injury count warrants serious consideration. The Versa offers genuine safety value at its price point, but buyers should confirm their specific model year's recall status and carefully assess the frontal-crash score.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally position the Versa as one of the most accessible entries in the subcompact sedan class, praising its surprisingly spacious cabin for the segment and straightforward, easy-to-use controls. Most note that interior materials and overall refinement reflect the car's budget positioning, and driving dynamics are described as adequate for city use rather than engaging. Value for the money is consistently highlighted as its strongest selling point.
- The 2022 Versa earned a NHTSA Safety Index of 91 out of 100, placing it in our Exceptional band, but not every model year in this range performs at that level, so always check the specific year you are considering.
- Frontal crash protection came in at 4 out of 5 stars in best-year testing. Frontal collisions are the most common fatal crash type, so this score deserves weight in your buying decision alongside the stronger 5-star side-impact result.
- Eight recalls have been issued across the 2019 to 2025 model years. Before purchasing any used or new Versa, run the VIN through NHTSA's free recall lookup tool to confirm all open recalls have been remedied.
- Owner complaint filings across these model years include 15 alleged crashes and 11 alleged injuries. These are unverified allegations submitted to NHTSA, but the pattern is worth reviewing in detail on the NHTSA complaints database for your target model year.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Nissan Versa with 3 recalls.