Design: Why does the Nissan Cube stand out from other cars?
Japanese compact van Nissan Cube is a car that is impossible not to notice. Its distinctive shape with asymmetrical windows, rounded lines and a smiling front end makes it one of the most recognizable compact crossovers on the road. Designers Nissan were inspired by the idea of creating a car that looks like a “capsule on wheels” - cozy, functional and futuristic at the same time.
Feature appearance - it's not only aesthetics, but also practicality. The high roof and vertical pillars provide excellent visibility, and the short overhang front and rear makes maneuvering in the city easy. At the same time Cube does not look bulky - its compact dimensions (length about 3.9 m) make it easy to park even in tight yards.
The interior space also pleases with non-standard solutions. The salon is designed in style "lounge" - with soft seats, rounded shapes and a large number of plastic panels with a fabric or metal texture. The interior can be compared to a guest room on wheels: it is comfortable for both the driver and passengers.
Technical specifications: what's under the hood of the Nissan Cube?
Nissan Cube was offered with several types of engines, but gasoline versions are most often found in the Russian and European markets. The basic equipment was equipped 1.5 liter engine 109 hp, which was combined with a 4-speed automatic transmission or 6-speed manual. A more powerful version had 1.8 liter engine (122 hp) with CVT CVT.
Feature Cube - it is front-wheel drive and independent suspension on all wheels, which ensures good handling in the city. However, don't expect sporty performance from it: acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 11-13 seconds depending on the engine. But fuel consumption is good: in the combined cycle 1.5 liter version consumes about 7-8 liters per 100 km.
The table below shows the key technical parameters:
| Parameter | 1.5 MT | 1.5 AT | 1.8 CVT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine capacity, l | 1.5 | 1.5 | 1.8 |
| Power, hp | 109 | 109 | 122 |
| Gearbox | 6-speed manual | 4-automatic | CVT |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s | 11.5 | 12.8 | 10.9 |
| Fuel consumption, l/100 km | 6.8 | 7.5 | 7.9 |
⚠️ Attention: CVT CVT in Nissan Cube requires regular oil changes (every 60,000 km). Neglecting this rule can lead to expensive repairs!
Options and equipment: what did Nissan offer?
Depending on the market Nissan Cube offered in different configurations, but the most common are Base, S And SL. Even in the basic version, the car was equipped with air conditioning, electrical accessories, and an audio system with CD/MP3 and airbags.
More expensive versions received:
- 🎵 Premium audio system Bose with 6 speakers
- 🌡️ Climate control with separate settings for driver and passenger
- 🔑 Keyless entry and engine start button
- 📱 Integration with Bluetooth and voice control
- 🪟 Panoramic roof (optional for versions SL)
An interesting feature is asymmetrical rear row of seats, which can be folded in different configurations, increasing the luggage compartment from 117 to 420 liters. Also present in some versions "Magic Seat" — a seat transformation system that allows you to transport long loads.
- 1.5 MT (economical)
- 1.5 AT (comfortable)
- 1.8 CVT (powerful)
- I don't care about the engine
Pros and cons of the Nissan Cube: is it worth buying?
Like any car, Nissan Cube has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's look at them in detail.
Benefits:
- 🚗 Unique design - stands out on the road and is memorable
- 🏙️ Ideal for the city: compact, maneuverable, with good visibility
- 🛋️ Spacious and cozy salon with non-standard solutions
- 💰 Low cost of ownership: cheap maintenance, low fuel consumption
- 🔧 Reliable suspension, adapted to bad roads
Disadvantages:
- 🐢 Weak dynamics - not suitable for speed lovers
- 🛣️ On the highway there is a feeling of “sailiness” due to the high body
- 🔊 Noisy cabin at high speeds (especially with CVT)
- 💸 Spare parts for some versions have to be ordered from Japan
- 🔄 CVT CVT Requires careful handling and regular maintenance
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Nissan Cube In the secondary market, be sure to check the service history of the CVT. Many owners skimp on oil changes, which leads to breakdowns!
The Nissan Cube is an ideal choice for city driving, but not for long-distance travel or sporty driving.
Secondary market prices: how much does a Nissan Cube cost in 2026?
Cost Nissan Cube on the secondary market depends on the year of manufacture, mileage and condition. In Russia and the CIS countries prices vary from 350,000 to 800,000 rubles.
Approximate prices by year:
- 📅 2009-2011 — 350,000–500,000 rub. (mileage 100,000–150,000 km)
- 📅 2012-2014 — 500,000–700,000 rub. (mileage up to 100,000 km)
- 📅 2015-2017 (restyling) - 650,000–800,000 rubles. (mileage up to 80,000 km)
When purchasing, pay attention to:
Mileage and service history (especially CVT)
Suspension condition (knocking, play)
Operation of air conditioning and electronics
Body for rust (especially arches and sills)
Documents (some copies are imported through the “gray” route)-->
Important point: Many Nissan Cube on the Russian market these are used cars from Japan. Before purchasing, be sure to order a vehicle history report (for example, through CarVertical or Autocode).
Comparison with competitors: who is better?
Main competitors Nissan Cube in the compact van market - this is Toyota bB, Honda Freed, Suzuki Wagon R And Kia Soul. Let's compare them based on key parameters.
| Parameter | Nissan Cube | Toyota bB | Kia Soul |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | The most unusual | Classic "box" | Sports crossover |
| Cabin space | Very spacious | Narrow but tall | Compact but convenient |
| Dynamics | Weak | Average | Best in class |
| Reliability | Good (except CVT) | Excellent | good |
| Resale price | RUB 350,000–800,000 | 400,000–900,000 rub. | 500,000–1,200,000 rub. |
If you need most practical and inexpensive compact van - Nissan Cube great option. If dynamics are important, take a closer look Kia Soul. And if reliability is paramount - Toyota bB will be the best choice.
During a test drive Nissan Cube Be sure to check the operation of the variator while driving: there should be no jerks or delays during acceleration!
Owner reviews: real operating experience
Opinions about Nissan Cube Owners are divided, but most agree on one thing: this is a great car for the city. Here are some real reviews:
Pros according to reviews:
- 👍 “In 3 years of ownership, I have never let you down, I only changed consumables. It’s very convenient to park!” — Alexey, Moscow
- 👍 "Children love getting into the car - they say it's like a spaceship. The trunk can even fit a bicycle if you fold the seats." — Olga, St. Petersburg
- 👍 “I’ve been driving a CVT for 120,000 km, no problems. The main thing is to change the oil every 50,000 km.” — Igor, Ekaterinburg
Cons according to reviews:
- 👎 "When overtaking on the highway, you have to put a lot of pressure on the gas - the engine is not enough." — Dmitry, Novosibirsk
- 👎 "In winter, the interior is cold until the engine warms up. The heater is rather weak." — Maria, Kazan
- 👎 "Spare parts for a CVT are expensive if something breaks." — Sergey, Krasnoyarsk
Many owners note that Cube — this is a car “for everyone.” It won't suit those who value speed or premium finishes, but it will be an ideal choice for those looking for inexpensive, practical and memorable car for the city.
What malfunctions are most common?
The most common problems:
1. **Variator** - wear of the belt and cones due to untimely oil changes.
2. **Suspension** - knocking noises in the stabilizer struts and bushings after 100,000 km.
3. **Electronics** - sometimes the on-board computer or audio system malfunctions.
4. **Body** — rust on arches and sills due to poor care.
5. **Air conditioning** - freon leak in systems older than 10 years.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Cube
❓ Is Nissan Cube suitable for a family with children?
Yes, Nissan Cube — an excellent family car. The high interior makes it easy to board children, and the spacious trunk accommodates a baby stroller. However, the back row is not very wide - it will be cramped for three passengers.
❓ Which engine is more reliable: 1.5 or 1.8?
Both engines are considered reliable, but 1.5 liter easier to maintain and more economical. 1.8 liter more powerful, but the CVT requires more careful maintenance. If you drive mostly around the city, it is better to choose 1.5.
❓ Is it possible to install gas equipment on Nissan Cube?
Technically yes, but this is not always justified. 1.5 liter the engine does not tolerate gas well - detonation may occur. 1.8 liter fits better, but installation will cost 50,000–70,000 rubles, and the savings will be minimal due to low gasoline consumption.
❓ How much does Nissan Cube service cost per year?
With a mileage of 15,000 km per year, the costs will be approximately 20,000–30,000 rubles. (changing oil, filters, brake pads). If there is a CVT, add another 10,000–15,000 rubles. for an oil change CVT once every 2 years.
❓ Where is the best place to buy spare parts for Nissan Cube?
Original spare parts can be ordered from official dealers Nissan, but they are expensive. A more budget option is online stores (for example, Exist.ru, Autodoc) or dismantling Japanese cars. For the variator, it is better to take only original consumables.