Nissan Cube: photo of the interior with a detailed overview of the interior (2002–2019)

Why is the Nissan Cube's interior so controversial?

Nissan Cube — one of the most unusual compact vans in the history of the automotive industry. Its eccentric exterior immediately catches your eye, but the real emotions begin when you open the door. Salon Cube it is also perceived differently: some call it brilliantly thought out, others call it too ascetic or even “toy-like”. In this article we will analyze photo of Nissan Cube interior all generations (Z11, Z12), we will analyze materials, ergonomics and reveal secrets that are not noticeable at first glance.

The model was produced from 1998 to 2019, but mainly versions were officially supplied to the Russian market 2002–2014 (Z11) and restyled Z12 (2008–2019). It is their salons that we will consider in as much detail as possible - with an emphasis on practicality, comfort and “tricks” that make Cube unique. If you are planning to buy a used one or simply love non-standard cars, this article will help you figure out whether the Cube interior is right for you.

Photo of the interior of the Nissan Cube Z11 (2002–2008): minimalism or missed opportunities?

First generation Cube, which has become widespread outside of Japan is the Z11. Its interior is often called “Spartan”, but this is not entirely fair. The interior design here is based on asymmetry and functionality: The center console is shifted towards the driver, and the front panel has wavy lines that follow the exterior. The photo below shows how unusual the instrument cluster looks - it is located not behind the steering wheel, but in the middle of the dashboard:

📌 Key features of the Z11 interior:

• 🔄 Asymmetrical console — the gearshift lever and climate control are shifted to the left, which is inconvenient for right-handers.
• 🎨 Plastic "metal" - cheap to the touch, but visually creates a premium effect.
• 🪑 Waterfall seats - an unusual shape of the back, which not everyone likes.
• 📦 Trunk 118 l (with folded seats - up to 1100 l), but with a high loading threshold.

In the photo of the salon Nissan Cube Z11 The absence of traditional air deflectors is striking - instead, narrow slots are used on the sides of the dashboard. This decision is controversial: on the one hand, the interior looks cleaner, on the other, the directional air flow is difficult to adjust. One more point: in basic versions there is no armrest, and in expensive ones (for example, 1.6 SL) it is there, but it is located too low.

Nissan Cube Z12 interior (2008–2019): evolution or step back?

The restyled version of the Z12 received a more “adult” interior, but lost some of its charisma. Designers Nissan We tried to make the interior more universal by removing the most radical solutions of the Z11. For example, the instrument cluster returned to its traditional position behind the wheel, and the center console became symmetrical. However the asymmetry still remains — the gearshift lever is still shifted to the left, which annoys many drivers.

📸 In the photo of the salon Cube Z12 it is clear that the materials have become a little better: the plastic is now softer to the touch, and in the top versions (1.8 S) “aluminium-look” inserts appeared. But the main innovation is Lounge Seat (optional for the Japanese market), which transforms into a mini-sofa. In Europe and Russia, this option is rare, but if you’re lucky, the salon turns into a real living room on wheels.

Characteristics	Nissan Cube Z11 (2002–2008)	Nissan Cube Z12 (2008–2019)
Dashboard location	In the center of the dashboard	Driving (traditional)
Finishing materials	Hard plastic “metal-like”	Soft plastic, aluminum-look inserts
Ergonomics of the gearshift lever	Shifted to the left (inconvenient for right-handers)	Shifted to the left (no changes)
Lounge Seat Option	No	Yes (Japanese market only)
Trunk volume	118 l (1100 l with seats folded)	118 l (1100 l with seats folded)

One of the main disappointments with the Z12's cabin is no steering wheel reach adjustment. Even in top trim levels, you can only adjust the tilt angle, which is inconvenient for tall drivers. But more modern options have appeared: heated seats, a rear view camera and a multimedia system with 5 inch screen (in US versions). In Japan it was even offered DVD player with ceiling monitor — a rarity for a compact van!

Pros and cons of the Nissan Cube interior: an honest analysis

Salon Cube It’s impossible to evaluate unambiguously - you either like it at first sight or it’s annoying. Let's break it down strengths and weaknesses based on owner reviews and expert tests.

✅ Pros:

• 🚗 Unique design - in traffic Cube stands out even from the inside.
• 🔄 Transformable salon — the rear seats fold down into a flat floor, and the front passenger seat can be folded down to transport long items.
• 👀 Good visibility thanks to large windows and high seating position.
• 🎵 High-quality sound insulation (for its class) - does not tire you on the highway.

❌ Cons:

• ⚠️ Inconvenient location of the gearshift lever — not everyone can get used to it.
• 🪑 Hard seats - Your back gets tired on long trips.
• 🔧 Cheap materials — the plastic creaks, and the fabric on the seats wears out quickly.
• 📱 Outdated media - even in Z12 the screen is small and does not support Apple CarPlay.

Owners especially criticize ergonomics of the driver's seat. For example, the climate control buttons on the Z11 are located too low, while on the Z12 they were moved higher, but made too small. One more point: in the cabin Cube there are very few places for small items - there are not even cup holders in the rear (only in the front).

Why doesn't the Nissan Cube have traditional air deflectors?

Nissan engineers wanted to create a minimalist design, so they replaced the air vents with slots on the sides of the dashboard. However, this solution turned out to be unsuccessful: the air flow is difficult to direct precisely, and in winter the glass blowing does not work effectively enough.

Comparison with competitors: which is better - Cube, Scion xB or Kia Soul?

Nissan Cube often compared to other “box-shaped” compact vans: Scion xB, Kia Soul and even Honda Element. Let's see how its interior looks against their background.

🔹 Scion xB (2008–2015):

Salon xB more spacious and practical - there are normal air deflectors, comfortable seats and a large trunk (up to 1900 l). But the design is more boring, and the materials are at about the same level. Main advantage Scion - this is steering wheel reach adjustment, which is not in Cube.

🔹 Kia Soul (2009–present):
Soul won against Cube on all fronts: modern design, better materials, more options (including seat ventilation in new versions). But it has fewer “highlights” - interior Kia predictable, whereas Nissan surprises at every turn.

🔹 Honda Element (2003–2011):
Element is more of a mini-SUV, but its interior is also non-standard. There is waterproof seats and a huge space, but visibility is worse and sound insulation is weaker than Cube.

If you need practical and reliable car - choose Scion xB or Kia Soul. If you want unusual design and are ready to put up with shortcomings — Nissan Cube will be an excellent choice.

How to improve the Nissan Cube interior: tuning and modifications

Many owners Cube do not stop at the standard interior and modify it. Here are some proven solutions:

🔧 Popular improvements:

• 🎧 Installation of a modern radio - for example, Pioneer AVH-X5800DAB with support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto.
• 🪑 Replacing seats - many people install chairs from Nissan Juke or Mazda 3 for better back support.
• 🔦 LED interior lighting — improves the atmosphere and makes it easier to find things in the dark.
• 🛠️ Noise insulation - additional layer StP-bimast on the floor and doors reduces noise levels by 20–30%.

One of the most common tuning projects is interior reupholstery. Standard fabric on the seats quickly gets dirty and wipes out, so many owners choose leather or Alcantara. For example, reupholstering the steering wheel and gearshift lever in leather costs ~15,000 rubles, but significantly improves tactile sensations.

💡 Tuning tip: if you are annoyed by the asymmetrical arrangement of the gearshift lever, you can install short-stroke slide (for example, from Nissan Sentra B15). This will not only improve ergonomics, but also make gear shifting more precise.

Owner reviews: real operating experience

To understand how comfortable the salon is Nissan Cube in everyday life, we analyzed owner reviews from forums (including Drive2 And CubeOwnersClub). Here's what they say:

⚠️ Attention: Z11 owners often complain about plastic squeaks — especially in the area of the dashboard and center console. The problem can be solved by treating with silicone grease, but requires regular repetition.

🗣️ Positive Feedback:

• 👍 “The salon is more spacious than it seems in the photo! Two adults in the front and three children in the back fit in - no one felt cramped.” (Owner of Cube Z12 1.6)
• 👍 “The visibility is superb - like on a bus! No dead spots." (Owner of Cube Z11 1.4)
• 👍 “The rear seats fold into a flat floor - I transported the refrigerator without any problems.” (Owner of Cube Z12 1.8)

🗣️ Negative feedback:

• 👎 “The gearshift lever on the left is torture! I constantly confuse it with the handbrake.” (Owner of Cube Z11)
• 👎 “Plastic melts in the sun - sticky spots remain on the dashboard.” (Owner of Cube Z12, USA)
• 👎 “In winter, the interior takes a long time to warm up - the heater is weak.” (Owner of Cube Z11, Russia)

Interestingly, most of the negative reviews are related to ergonomics, and not with reliability. For example, owners note that after 3-4 years the door hinges begin to creak, but this is a typical problem for Japanese cars of this age.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Cube interior

🔍 Is it possible to install a child seat in the Nissan Cube?

Yes, but with reservations. Inside Cube there are fastenings ISOFIX in the rear seats, but due to the non-standard shape of the backrest, some seat models may not be suitable. We recommend that you try on the chair first or choose a universal model with adjustable fasteners.

🚗 Why is there no armrest in the Nissan Cube?

In basic versions there is really no armrest - engineers Nissan it was considered that it interfered with the transformation of the interior. In top trim levels (for example, 1.8 SL) there is an armrest, but it is small and non-adjustable. Many owners install universal armrests from other models (for example, from Nissan Note).

🔧 How to remove the dashboard in a Nissan Cube for repairs?

Dismantling the dashboard Cube requires accuracy. Basic steps:

1. Disconnect the battery.
2. Remove the decorative trims around the steering wheel and center console (they are attached with latches).
3. Unscrew the bolts under the glove compartment and near the driver's feet.
4. Carefully pull the dashboard towards you - it will come off along with the wiring.

⚠️ Attention: Do not pull too hard - you may damage the airbag connectors!

🎨 Is it possible to repaint the plastic in the Nissan Cube interior?

Yes, but the result depends on the quality of preparation. Plastic in Cube often coated with a metallic texture, so it must be thoroughly matted before painting. It is better to use plastic paint (for example, Plasti Dip) or vinyl stickers. Some owners completely cover the dashboard with leather or Alcantara.

🔋 How to improve glass blowing in Nissan Cube Z11?

The problem of weak glass blowing in the Z11 is related to the design of the deflectors. Solutions:

• Install an additional fan on the dashboard (for example, USB fan with guide vanes).
• Check the cabin filter - a clogged filter will impair air flow.
• Modify the deflectors by installing flexible tubes on them for precise flow direction.