Nissan Cube 2nd generation (Z11): everything you need to know before buying

Nissan Cube second generation (index Z11) is one of the most unusual and memorable compact vans in the history of the automotive industry. Launched in 1998, it became a cult car thanks to its futuristic design, custom interior layout and unique "living space" philosophy. This car doesn't just transport passengers - it creates a special atmosphere, combining the practicality of a minibus with the maneuverability of a hatchback.

In Japan Cube Z11 was positioned as a “mobile salon” for young people and creative individuals, and in Europe and the USA it became exotic for connoisseurs of extraordinary solutions. Despite its modest technical characteristics, the car stands out for its thoughtful ergonomics, unusual body symmetry and the ability to transform the interior. Today, more than two decades later, Cube remains in demand on the secondary market - especially among those who are looking not just for transport, but for a stylish art object on wheels.

Specifications Nissan Cube Z11 (1998–2002)

Under the hood Nissan Cube The second generation hides time-tested, but far from the most powerful power units. The base engine is 1.3 liter gasoline engine CG13DE with distributed injection, developing 88 hp at 6000 rpm. A rarer version was equipped 1.5 liter GA15DE (103 hp), which was offered mainly on the Japanese market. Both engines are paired with a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission.

Feature Cube Z11 is front-wheel drive and independent suspension of all wheels (front - type MacPherson, rear - multi-link). The steering is power-assisted, and the braking system includes discs at the front and drums at the rear. Despite its modest dynamics (acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 13–15 seconds), the car is famous for its maneuverability and compact dimensions, ideal for urban conditions.

• 🔧 Engines: 1.3 l (88 hp), 1.5 l (103 hp)
• ⚙️ Gearboxes: 5 manual transmission / 4 automatic transmission
• 📏 Dimensions: 3780×1660×1740 mm (wheelbase - 2360 mm)
• ⛽ Fuel consumption: 6.5–8.5 l/100 km (city/highway)
• 💺 Ground clearance: 150 mm

Parameter	1.3 CG13DE (88 hp)	1.5 GA15DE (103 hp)
Max. speed, km/h	160	170
Acceleration 0–100 km/h, sec	14.8	12.5
Fuel consumption (combined), l/100 km	7.2	7.8
Tank volume, l	45	45
Toxicity standard	Euro 2	Euro 2

A unique feature of the Cube Z11 is the rear-facing asymmetrical rear door, similar to the London Taxi, making it easier for passengers to board in tight parking spaces. However, this design element takes some getting used to: if you open it carelessly, the door may hit nearby cars or obstacles.

Design and interior: why is the Cube Z11 still relevant?

Appearance Nissan Cube the second generation is a bold experiment with shapes and proportions. The body is made in the style of "liquid sculpture", with rounded lines, the absence of sharp corners and an unusual combination of convex and concave surfaces. The front of the car resembles a smiling face thanks to the headlights-“eyes” and the grille-“mouth”, and the rear is a beveled cube (hence the name of the model). This aesthetic makes the car recognizable even after 20+ years.

Interior Cube Z11 no less eccentric: the interior is made in a futuristic style with an abundance of plastic in unusual shades (from silver to bright orange), round air ducts and a center console reminiscent of a spaceship. Attracts special attention asymmetrical instrument panel, where the speedometer is located in the center and the tachometer is on the left. The seats are high, providing excellent visibility, but may be uncomfortable for tall drivers.

• 🎨 Color options: from monochrome (black, gray) to bright (yellow, green, blue)
• 🪑 Seats: convertible rear row (folds 60/40 or completely)
• 🚪 Doors: front - standard, rear - hinged "suicidal"
• 📻 Multimedia: optional CD changer, rarely - navigation (only for JDM versions)

The main trump card of the interior is space. Despite the external compactness, inside Cube surprisingly spacious: the cabin height reaches 1300 mm, and the trunk volume is 300 liters (up to 1100 liters with the seats folded down). Thanks to the vertical pillars and large windshield, the effect of a “floating” interior is created, which is especially appreciated in city traffic jams.

Weaknesses and typical problems of the Nissan Cube Z11

Like any car of considerable age, Nissan Cube the second generation has a number of “diseases” that you should know about before purchasing. The main problems are related to body corrosion, electrician And suspension. The most vulnerable areas:

• 🚗 Body: rust on the sills, wheel arches and lower edges of the doors (especially on cars from Japan with salt treatments)
• ⚡ Electrical: oxidation of contacts in the fuse box, problems with the central locking, malfunctions of sensors (ABS, fuel level)
• 🔧 Suspension: wear of the silent blocks of the front levers, knocking in the rear multi-link, leaking shock absorbers
• 🔥 Engine: for a 1.3-liter engine CG13DE increased oil consumption is possible (after 200 thousand km), for a 1.5-liter GA15DE - problems with the thermostat

Automatic Transmission (RE4F03A) It is considered reliable, but requires regular oil changes (every 60 thousand km). If the regulations are not followed, jerks during switching and wear of the solenoids are possible. A manual transmission is more durable, but can “crunch” when shifting inaccurately due to wear on the synchronizers.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Cube Z11 with mileage over 150 thousand km, be sure to check the condition engine mounts — their destruction leads to vibrations on the body and premature wear of the transmission.

Problem	Reason	Repair cost (approx.)
Rust on the thresholds	No anti-corrosion treatment	15,000–40,000 ₽ (welding/painting)
Knock in rear suspension	Wear of lever bushings	8,000–15,000 ₽ (set of bushings + labor)
Floating speed XX	Throttle valve contamination	2,000–5,000 ₽ (cleaning + gasket replacement)
Oil leak from under the valve cover	Gasket wear	3,000–7,000 ₽ (replacement + sealant)

Secondary market prices: how much does the Nissan Cube Z11 cost in 2026?

Cost Nissan Cube second generation on the secondary market varies greatly depending on condition, configuration and region. In Russia, most copies are imported from Japan cars with mileage from 80 to 150 thousand km. Average prices for 2026:

• 💰 Basic version (1.3 l, manual transmission, without air conditioning): 250 000–350 000 ₽
• 💰 Average configuration (1.3 l, automatic transmission, air conditioning): 350 000–500 000 ₽
• 💰 Top version (1.5 l, automatic transmission, leather interior, sunroof): 500 000–700 000 ₽
• 💰 Copies in perfect condition (collectible): 800 000–1 200 000 ₽

In Europe and USA Cube Z11 is less common and more highly valued - especially versions with right hand drive (JDM), which are considered rare. In the American market the price can reach $8 000–$12 000 for cars in good condition. When purchasing, it is important to consider service history: Japanese cars with full service (for example, from auctions USS or TCV) are 15–20% more expensive than their counterparts without documents.

Owner reviews: pros and cons of operation

Opinions about Nissan Cube Z11 owners are divided into two camps: some admire its originality and practicality, others criticize it for its weak dynamics and problems with spare parts. Here are the most frequent reviews:

• ✅ Pros:
• 👍 Unique design — the car stands out in the traffic and attracts attention.
• 👍 Spacious salon — despite its external compactness, the inside is comfortable even for tall passengers.
• 👍 Maneuverability - ideal for the city, turns around almost on the spot (turning radius - 4.7 m).
• 👍 Low cost of ownership — cheap maintenance, available spare parts (many components are unified with Nissan Micra K11).

• ❌ Cons:
• 👎 Weak engines — The 1.3-liter engine does not perform well on the highway, overtaking is difficult.
• 👎 Noisy suspension - even after repair, knocks and squeaks may persist due to design features.
• 👎 Electronics problems — sensors and fuses often fail, especially in wet weather.
• 👎 Difficulty finding spare parts — some parts (for example, interior plastic) have to be ordered from Japan.

What do owners say about fuel consumption?

Many note that the actual consumption Cube Z11 exceeds that declared by the manufacturer by 1–1.5 l/100 km. This is especially noticeable in the city, where the 1.3-liter engine spins at high speeds. Owners recommend using oils with a viscosity 5W-30 or 10W-40 (For example, Idemitsu Zepro or Mobil Super 3000>) to reduce friction and save fuel.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Cube Z11 with automatic transmission check automatic transmission radiator condition - its clogging leads to overheating of the oil and failure of the box. Replacing a radiator costs 10,000–15,000 rubles, but ignoring the problem can cost a complete overhaul of the gearbox (from 80,000 rubles).

Tuning and modifications: how to improve the Nissan Cube Z11?

Nissan Cube The second generation is an excellent platform for tuning, especially if you strive for uniqueness. Most owners divide modifications into three areas:

1. External tuning — vinyl stickers, chameleon-like tinting, installation of LED headlights or eyelashes on optics. Popular body kits from JUN or TRUSTwhich give the car a sporty look.
2. Interior — replacing standard seats with sports ones (for example, from Recaro), steering wheel installation Nardi, reupholstering the instrument panel in leather or Alcantara. Some owners install RGB interior lighting to create a futuristic atmosphere.
3. Technical tuning — engine chip tuning (up to +15 hp on a 1.3-liter engine), replacement of the exhaust system with a forward flow one, installation of a short-throw gearbox. For extreme sports enthusiasts, there are kits for suspension lowering (for example springs Tein or H&R), but this degrades comfort.

Determine the goal (appearance/dynamics/comfort)|Check the compatibility of spare parts with your modification|Estimate the budget (from 50,000 ₽ for cosmetic tuning to 300,000 ₽ for a deep alteration)|Find a trusted technician (many service stations refuse to work with rare models)|Save the original parts in case of sale-->

One of the most popular improvements is replacement of standard audio system. Standard radio Cube Z11 supports only CD and radio, so owners install modern 2DIN systems with Android Auto And Apple CarPlay. This will require a transition frame (for example, Metra 99-7303) and a sound amplifier, since the standard acoustics are rather weak.

Comparison with competitors: why choose Cube?

In the class of compact hatchbacks and minivans, Nissan Cube Z11 there are several direct competitors, but none of them can boast the same originality. For comparison, consider three models:

Parameter	Nissan Cube Z11 (1998–2002)	Toyota bB (2000–2005)	Honda Element (2003–2011)	Suzuki Wagon R (1999–2003)
Engine (base)	1.3 l, 88 hp	1.3 l, 86 hp	2.4 l, 160 hp	0.7 l, 54 hp (turbo - 64 hp)
Drive	Front	Front/Full	Front/Full	Front/Full
Trunk volume, l	300–1100	200–1100	750–1900	200–1000
Unique Feature	Asymmetrical design, "cubic" shape	High ground clearance, off-road style	Plastic body, modular interior	Compact, economical
Average price on the secondary market, ₽	350 000–700 000	400 000–800 000	1 000 000–1 800 000	200 000–400 000

Advantages of Cube Z11 over competitors:

• 🎨 The most original design - none of the models looks so futuristic.
• 💺 More spacious interior compared to Suzuki Wagon R And Toyota bB.
• 💰 Lower cost of ownershipthan Honda Element (especially regarding spare parts).

Disadvantages:

• 🚗 Weak engines - loses Honda Element in dynamics.
• 🛠️ Fewer offers on the marketthan Toyota bB.
• 🌍 No all-wheel drive, unlike competitors.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Cube Z11

❓ Is it possible to install gas equipment on Cube Z11?

Yes, but with reservations. 1.3 liter engine CG13DE does not tolerate HBOT due to the high compression ratio (10:1), which can lead to detonation and damage to the pistons. For 1.5 liter GA15DE (compression ratio 9.5:1) is suitable for 4th generation LPG, but requires ECU adjustment. The average cost of installation is 40,000–60,000 rubles.

❓ What kind of oil to pour into the Cube Z11 engine?

The manufacturer recommends oil viscosity 5W-30 or 10W-40 with classification API SG/SH or SL. Popular options:

• Idemitsu Zepro Touring 5W-30 — optimal for urban use.
• Mobil Super 3000 5W-40 - Suitable for hot climates.
• Liqui Moly Special Tec AA 5W-30 — reduces oil consumption on worn engines.

Oil volume for 1.3-liter engine - 3.2 l, for 1.5-liter - 3.4 l.

❓ What is the service life of Cube Z11 engines?

When properly maintained, engines Cube Z11 able to pass 300,000–400,000 km. However, there are nuances:

• 1.3 liter CG13DE needs replacement timing belt every 100,000 km (if a break occurs, the valve bends!).
• 1.5 liter GA15DE more reliable, but sensitive to fuel quality (AI-95 gasoline is recommended).
• Both engines are prone to seal leaks after 200,000 km (especially the rear crankshaft oil seal).

❓ Is it possible to convert the Cube Z11 to right-hand drive?

Technically possible, but inappropriate. Rework requires:

1. Replacement of the steering rack and pedal assembly (cost of parts - from 50,000 ₽).
2. Relocation of the instrument panel and center console (welding required).
3. Re-registration with the traffic police (difficulties with registration, as this is considered a design change).

The total cost may exceed 200 000 ₽, which is comparable to purchasing a right-hand drive copy from Japan.

❓ Where can I find spare parts for Cube Z11?

Main sources:

• 🌍 Japanese online stores: Amayama, Buyee, Japan Parts — original parts with delivery 2–4 weeks.
• 🏬 Local showdowns: in Moscow and St. Petersburg there are specialized dismantling centers for Japanese cars (for example, Japancar or Nissan-Piter).
• 🔧 Standardized details: many components (brake pads, filters, spark plugs) are suitable from Nissan Micra K11 or Almera N15.
• 📦 Aliexpress: non-original plastic interior elements, stickers, LED lamps.

The average delivery time for spare parts from Japan is 3–5 weeks, the cost is 20–30% lower than that of local sellers.