Initially very popular in the 1990s, the subcompact took a dive, but it is coming back with a vengeance today. The Hyundai Accent can be said to be the flagship vehicle for subcompact cars as it is a quality yet affordable vehicle.
The 2014 Nissan Versa is one of the least expensive cars in its class, and boasts strong reliability, but with less of a history than the Hyundai Accent. So which one of these cars is the better buy?
First, the Specs:
| 2014 Hyundai Accent | 2014 Nissan Versa | ||
| City MPG: | 27 | 27 – 31 | |
| Highway MPG: | 38 | 36 – 40 | |
| Engine(s): | Inline-4 | Inline-4 | |
| Seating Capacity: | 5 – 5 | 5 – 5 | |
| Basic Warranty: | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles | |
| Overall Safety Rating | 4 stars | 4 stars | |
| Frontal Crash Rating | 4 stars | 3 stars | |
| Side Crash Rating | 4 stars | 4 stars | |
| Invoice*: | $14,248 | $11,703 – $16,465 |
The 2014 Nissan Versa
It is hard to ignore the low price tag of the Nissan Versa, making it attractive to younger buyers. The Versa also provides plenty of back seat room for additional passengers. There is also 14.9 cubic-feet of trunk space which is pretty decent.
The space is offset by an underpowered engine. However the Versa gets great fuel economy with 31 mpg city and 40 mpg highway.
The 2014 Hyundai Accent
The Accent has the advantage of being relatively loaded despite the low sticker price. It comes standard with all the power features, six speakers, a tilt steering wheel for better handling and a 60/40 folding rear seat.
Where the Hyundai Accent takes off is under the hood. It gets a little less efficient gas mileage than the Versa at 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. But the power is undeniable with a 1.6-liter engine that delivers 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque; this blows the Versa’s 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque out of the water.
Verdict: Nissan Versa
With better fuel efficiency and a more attractive price tag, the 2014 Nissan Versa is all that modern buyers want in a subcompact. It is easy to park, even in urban areas, doesn’t guzzle gas, contains top tech and keeps its price tag low.
The 2014 Nissan Versa has won this battle. To get a closer look at your champion, check out our video slideshow or schedule your test drive today at your Philadelphia-area Nissan dealer!