The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) recently named the 2012 Nissan Versa sedan a Top Safety Pick. This rating is given to vehicles that get the highest rating of "good" on frontal offset, side impact and roof strength tests.

The 2012 model features six standard air bags, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution, vehicle dynamic control with traction control and brake assist. It is also the first Nissan in North American to be included in the automaker's PureDrive initiative, which focuses on reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. The new car has a combined fuel economy of 33 miles per gallon (30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

"Nissan remains committed to the highest levels of safety and innovation, as is reflected in the Nissan Versa sedan receiving the Top Safety Pick from IIHS," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Nissan North America. "The 2012 Versa provides customers with a remarkable level of value, comfort and security for an MSRP starting under $11,000."

Since the car is fairly inexpensive when it's new, drivers looking to get behind the wheel of a used model can expect to find prices well below the $10,000 mark. The IIHS reports the Versa had ratings of "good" for the 2007-2010 models when it came to side impact testing and frontal offset tests. The roof strength for these model years was found to be "acceptable," which is the next grade below "good."

Drivers interested in the Nissan Versa can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction, which offers a wide variety of used fuel-efficient sedans. Even if the Versa doesn't meet their needs, consumers can check out a number of comparable vehicles at NJ Auto.