All 2007 Nissan Versas arrive with a 1.8-liter, inline four-cylinder expected to put out 120 horsepower and 125 lb.-ft. of torque. These are solid numbers in the compact class, as most econoboxes are just pennies over the horsepower and torque century marks. Chevy’s Aveo rates at 103 hp. and 107 lb.-ft., while Kia’s Rio delivers 110/107, and Toyota’s upcoming Yaris (the Echo replacement for 2007) yields 106/103. Versa also shines in the transmission department, offering a standard six-speed manual, an optional four-speed automatic, and an available CVT. A CVT eliminates gear steps in favor of an infinitely variable gear ratio, thus keeping the engine at its best speed for a variety of power needs. Nissan says Versas equipped with the CVT should achieve 38 mpg on a combined city/highway cycle. Other highlights include independent MacPherson-style front suspension, torsion beam rear suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, electric power steering, front disc and rear drum brakes with available ABS, standard 15-inch steel wheels with 185/65HR15 tires, and optional six-spoke alloy wheels.