Nissan has been manufacturing the Nissan Cube for well over a decade, with its fist production starting in 1998. Since then, it has opened markets in Europe and North America. This cartoonish, boxy-looking car is a mini MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) that is appropriately classed as a subcompact car.
The line has 3 generations so far, with the latest being released in 2008. The 2011 Nissan Cube markets itself to younger buyers; attracting drivers with its hip look, fuel economy, and ability to fit into small parking spaces. While buyers will be sharply divided by its exterior appearance, no one can dispute that this uniqueness of the Cube is also one of its most endearing qualities for those that do fall in love with it. The Cube is offered in four trims: 1.8, 1.8 S, 1.8 SL, and 1.8 Krōm Edition.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Compact SUV | Base Price: $14,740.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50 liters) | Miles Per Gallon: 27 city / 31 hwy |
| Length: 156.7 in. (398 cm) | Width: 66.7 in. (169 cm) |
| Height: 65 in. (165 cm) | Wheel Base: 99.6 in. (252 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 2789 lbs (1265 kg) | Ground Clearance: 6.3 in. (16 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 11.4 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 16-valve DOHC 4 cylinder | Displacement: 1.8 liter |
| Horsepower: 122 HP | Max RPM: 5200 RPM |
| Torque: 127 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph (2010): 9.3 seconds | Maximum Speed: NA |
| Option:1.8 S | MSRP: $16,100; MPG: 25 city / 30 hwy |
| Option:1.8 S Krom Edition | MSRP: $21,640; MPG: 25 city / 30 hwy |
| Option:1.8 SL | MSRP: $18,200; MPG: 27 city / 31 hwy |
Engine & Performance
The Nissan Cube has a 1.8 L four-cylinder 122 horsepower engine and carries with it 127-pound-feet of torque. Buyers have a choice of either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission for all models except for 1.8, which only has a six-speed manual transmission.
While the Nissan Cube isn’t designed for speed, it is perfect for city driving. It isn’t as responsive as most Nissan cars, but it acquits itself with light steering, maneuverability in traffic, and increased convenience in parking. It averages 27/31 mpg in traffic/highway conditions with automatic transmission, and 25/30 mpg for manual transmission. Fantastic economy in fuel, but there are other subcompact cars of the competition that does better.
Interior & Exterior
As previously stated, the Nissan Cube’s exterior design will either be its strong suit or its weakest point depending on who is looking at the car. For those who value eccentricity and unique looks, the Nissan Cube will be a heaven-sent in a field of roads that offer nothing but conformity and boredom. It is pudgy, with a glassy upper body, and a shape that as its name suggests, is almost a perfect cube. There’s a reason the Cube is called a “box carton on wheels.”
The Nissan Cube measures 3.98 m long, 1.69 m wide and 1.65 m tall. It has a wheelbase of 2.53 m. Inside, the Cube is equipped with power windows, mirrors and locks; air-conditioning, and a navigation system optional on SL models but standard on Krōm. Depending on the models, it may also offer other features such as an audio system with subwoofer and speakers, XM satellite radio with NavTraffic capability, and a rear view monitor.
The interior of the car is well designed, has stylish carpeting, and a 20-color cabin-accent lighting kit. It also has Bluetooth capability for those who want it. Seating is adequate and there’s enough leg room and head room for everybody. It isn’t as comfortable though during long rides as the seats don’t give much support to its riders.
Safety & Reliability
None of the Nissan Cube’s earlier version up to the latest has been tested by the federal government. However, the insurance industry did give it a good score for front and side impacts as well as roof strength crash tests. Just like all of Nissan’s cars, the Cube is equipped with complete front and side air bags, a dynamic control and traction control system, and a tire pressure monitor.
Comparisons
The Nissan Cube has two main rivals: the Kia Soul (MSRP $13,300; 26 city / 31 hwy) and the Scion xB (MSRP $16,300; 22 city / 28 hwy). For a more powerful engine, you might want to take a look at the xB, although this comes with a heavier price. Both Soul and xB fail to beat the Cube in terms of fuel economy. Another car you may want to take a look at is the Honda Fit (MSRP $15,100; 27 city / 33 hwy). Honda Fit has more cargo space and has better mileage though it’s more expensive than the Cube.
Pros
- Distinctive style
- Spacious
- Convenient parking
- Room for customization
Cons
- Susceptible to cross winds
- Small cargo capacity
- Seats aren’t supportive enough
Overall Rating
What others say:
“The 2011 Nissan Cube looks like nothing else, while being surprisingly practical.”Car Connection
“For a basic economy car, Cube is fairly nimble and pleasant to drive. The precise steering has light effort at low speeds, but it builds nicely as the pace quickens.”Consumer Guide
“This small car holds five passengers in a surprisingly roomy interior.”MSN-ConsumerReports
“Reasonable performance; ample passenger space; easy to park; generous standard features list; unique customization opportunities.”Edmunds
