Overview & Reviews

The Nissan Cube is a whimsically styled compact hatchback with an emphasis on versatility and value. Thanks to a profile that perfectly matches its name, the Cube has plenty of room for adults in its backseat. And if you fold the rear seatbacks down, it can haul a lot of stuff, too. Nonetheless, the Cube's pricing is typical for a compact car, so even a new one won't break the bank, and a used one could be a great deal.

Offered with a manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic (CVT) paired to a small four-cylinder engine, the four-door Cube won't win many races. Moreover, its fuel economy is disappointing for a car in this class. But if the Cube's funky styling speaks to you, perhaps you're willing to live with these shortcomings. Just be sure to check out capable rivals like the Honda Fit and Kia Soul before making your final decision.

Current Nissan Cube
The Nissan Cube is a compact four-door hatchback wagon. A 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine sends 122 horsepower to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT. Fuel economy tops out around 30 mpg, a poor performance by segment standards.

The Cube is offered in two trim levels: S and SL. Base-level S models come standard with alloy wheels, air-conditioning, power accessories, Bluetooth and a height-adjustable driver seat. The SL adds larger wheels, keyless ignition/entry and automatic climate control, and it's eligible for options like a navigation system, a rearview camera and a Rockford Fosgate sound system. Customizing Cubers can tempt themselves with a multitude of factory- and dealer-installed accessories that include body kits and interior styling mods.

Along with its attention-grabbing design and park-anywhere dimensions, the Nissan Cube boasts a tall, spacious cabin. Headroom and legroom are plentiful for all occupants, and the backseat both reclines and slides fore and aft. With the rear seatbacks folded down, the Cube can carry nearly 60 cubic feet of cargo, putting it on par with some small crossover SUVs. If you need to carry people and cargo at the same time, though, you may be out of luck, as there isn't much space behind the second row.

Driving a Nissan Cube is an underwhelming experience. While the ride is agreeably comfort-tuned, the car can feel overly soft and unwilling when going quickly around turns, an unusual trait in a compact car. Taller drivers may wish for a telescoping steering wheel, and all occupants would benefit from less wind noise at highway speeds. Under the hood, the 1.8-liter four provides average acceleration, but its subpar fuel economy is disappointing. There are certainly some good reasons to buy a Cube -- they're just not readily apparent from the driver seat.

Used Nissan Cube Models
The current, first-generation Nissan Cube debuted for the 2009 model year with base, S, SL and Krom trim levels on tap. The base model came with rudimentary steel wheels but did enjoy air-conditioning and full power accessories; the Krom, meanwhile, featured exclusive styling enhancements like a chrome three-bar grille and two-tone upholstery, as well as Rockford Fosgate audio and other content upgrades. This was also the only model year in which the unforgettable Ginormous package was offered. You can look it up.

For 2010, Bluetooth became standard on every Cube, and the S received two additional audio speakers and an iPod interface. Also, the Krom got a color audio display and a couple other extras as standard. The 2011 Cube ditched the formerly available Garmin navigation unit in favor of an optional integrated touchscreen navigation system. For 2012, the Krom trim was discontinued, and the base trim bit the dust for 2013.

User Reviews:

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  Right car for smart ppl - 2009 Nissan Cube
  By DeeTee - August 14 - 4:10 pm

  Well I didnt actually purchase it, though if I had money for the downpayment, I would have taken it right then and there. I test drove it, although I would prefer the SL trim level, but they didnt have it yet. The ride, very comfortable, very smoothe, and enjoyable. When you see it in person, it is really strange, it looks so small, like a rock or a toaster with wheels, but CAVERNOUS inside. I really hope I can purchase it.

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  love my cube!!!!! - 2010 Nissan Cube
  By janzoo - July 16 - 5:43 am

  Back in October I was given the cube to drive while husbands car being serviced. When I looked at it I said, "You have got to be kidding!" Well, after driving it for 36 hours - I was in love! Traded in my 3 year old Civic and have not regretted it once. This car makes you happy! Fun, kwirky, economical and smart - this is an under-sung great little but roomy car! Also, it was a real champ in the snow this past winter. Am thrilled with my gas mileage as well. I average between no less then 31 mpg and up to 35mpg - which did seem to increase after the 3,000 mile mark. In my 40 some years of driving I have never loved a car. I do now.

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  Love My Cube - 2009 Nissan Cube
  By Bec55 - June 27 - 12:03 pm

  I have owned my Cube since October 2009. We immediately took it on a thousand mile trip from mid NC to Ohio and back. It was great. Lots of room for me, the hubby and 2 dogs. I wouldnt change a thing. Road noise is not an issue. It has no more road noise than my 2003 Corolla. It drives great on the interstate as well as in town. I am getting 32.5 mpg consistently. While in Ohio, my sister liked mine so much, she has since purchased one as well and loves it as much as I love mine. My husband loves the head and leg room.

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  Tons of room! - 2009 Nissan Cube
  By carlson66 - June 9 - 8:46 am

  I bought this car yesterday - I went to look at the Altima and the Maxima; the dealership had just gotten their first Cubes, so I was curious. I was sold as soon as I sat in it. Its deceivingly big on the inside! My husband is 61" and when he sits in the driver seat, there is still a good 8-10" of head room. It has very comfortable seats and is extremely easy to get in and out of. The back seat offers again, tons of room and it slides forward or backward to give you either more leg room or more cargo room. I have a 5 year old who uses a booster seat and its been hard finding something that is easy to get her in and out of, until now. The fun part...its a blast to drive!

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  2011 Nissan Cube Red - 2011 Nissan Cube
  By iggypop1 - June 8 - 12:09 am

  Bought my 2011 Cube in Red, used, was about 11 months old, with about 16k miles, got it for about $14k total. I traded in my 2007 PT Cruiser for a Cube. I love the look/interior/headliner! I did NOT get the extras; 20 color lights/Rockford stereo/better seats/better ac/heat dial (wish I would have), but it is still a great car! Rides pretty bad (like a truck), and you have 2 hold the wheel at all times (very shaky and flimsy) BUT after I had the car a few months I was doing about 50 on the interstate and could not avoid a 12 foot piece of wooden fencing and I went right over it without ANY damage or problems! I love Nissan! BUT my PT was a much better car! I would buy another cube!!!!

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  Love it - 2009 Nissan Cube
  By brenda - May 29 - 10:40 pm

  Really enjoy the cube. I hate that all cars look the same right now. Either a box or a sedan. This one has the chutzpa to have an asymmetrical window, nice lines, radiating roof design, etc. It just feels fun.

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  1.8 With Good CVT - Bang! - 2010 Nissan Cube
  By AEB - May 14 - 7:33 am

  Measuring the Toyota XB, Hundai Tuson, and Kia Soul for dollars and sense. The Cube came on top for me. If you are seeking 100% Japan made econo utility vehicle with functionality, the Cube is a home run. It s an excellent commuter and can comfortably travel long distances. The wind does become turbulent and feels light in the front end above 80 mph, but what other encono -vehicle doesnt. You drive any 15 to 20 K$ car and tell me it drives like BMW feel at 80 mph. I think people tend to get over critical on value vs. quality. Remember this car was made in Japan for 10 years before coming to the states. It is a small multi-purpose vehicle for 30 mpg on regular. This is a great car for the US

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  Cubed - 2009 Nissan Cube
  By Ice-Cube - April 21 - 1:50 pm

  Picked up my Krom a week ago and Im 250 miles in. A couple minor bugs but overall very happy. Im 64" and have plenty of room. Comfortable seats, quiet ride and great creature features. Plenty of power although the CVT takes awhile to get accustomed to. Very fun to drive and fit and finish are very good.

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  definetly unique - 2009 Nissan Cube
  By moonbaby - February 28 - 2:40 am

  Today, I was introduce to the "cube". I even test drove it. At first I was like uh... I dunno. But then I saw the White one and I was like hmmm... Im actually liking this. I have never been interested in buying a box type of car. But I found this one to be different. The more I looked at it, the more I liked it! However, it did remind me a lil bit of a circus feel, but I think that it makes it fun. The gas mileage is grreat, the price isnt too bad, compared to other vehicles. I thought it only looked good in White. Throw on some tint, and Nice wheels. And its gonna look good! Overall, I think people will buy this for the good mileage and the fair price. Ill probably go buy one next week!

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  Nissan Cube Review - 2009 Nissan Cube
  By Jacek P. Drozda - January 14 - 7:16 am

  The cube is absolutely amazing. Its like getting a minivan for the price of a Honda Fit. Its fun to drive due to stability control system, abs the acceleration is more than adequate, Im over 61 and feel that there is plenty of space in front as well as in the rear, there is an incredible amount of headroom. You feel like you are driving a small bus, with turning and braking of a sports car. I recently went to home depot and after reclining back seats I was able to fit the screen door! I bought this car for my wife and I drive the bmw coupe myself which I rate 10/10 but still enjoy the CUBE after driving my beemer.