These days, everyone is looking to stretch every cent they have - especially college students.  With the economy in shambles and the potential job market bleak, what’s a college student to do about transportation?

Nissan has a solution. The 2009 Nissan Versa combines value with reliability and safety, all wrapped in a somewhat stylish exterior.

Available in four-door sedan or five-door hatchback, the Versa is a handy little car.  The short test drive we had reviled an adequate amount of power coming from its 107 horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine.  A quick downshift of its five-speed manual transmission, launching the tachometer close to the 6,500-rpm redline, made us quickly forget we were in an “econo-box.”

Fuel economy is an amazing 26 city, 34 highway with the 1.6-liter.  And with a 13.2-gallon fuel tank, the Versa has an estimated highway range of 400 miles.

Nissan has really done their homework in the reliability department.  They claim that the Versa doesn’t need a tune-up for 105,000 miles, and every new Nissan is covered by a three-year, 36,000-mile warranty. 

Pricing for the Versa is the best part of this sweet package.  The 1.6-liter “base” Versa starts at a meager $9,990.  However, those wanting amenities like a radio and air conditioning will have to spend more.   Air conditioning is a $1,000 option and a radio isn’t even an option on 1.6-liter - although Nissan was kind enough to pre-wire the car and include four speakers. 

Upgrading to the 1.8-liter four-cylinder would get you a radio and air conditioning, not to mention a more powerful engine that makes 122 horsepower.   The 1.8-liter is offered in both the sedan and hatchback versions.  However, the 1.6-liter is only offered in the sedan flavor.

Our overall impression of the Nissan was good.  We enjoyed the spacious interior, although the lack of a radio and A/C would hinder the car’s livability on long trips.  Fit and finish were very good for such an inexpensive car. 

Visit Nissan online and build your own Versa or take a look at their other products.

So would you buy the Versa? What other cars appeal to you?  Write your response in a comment below!