Car Nissan Cube is one of the most controversial creations of the Japanese automobile industry, which has polarized the opinions of drivers to this day. On the one hand, this is a unique design that cannot be confused with anyone else, and on the other hand, there are specific ergonomics and operating features that sellers on the secondary market are silent about. Owners are often divided into two camps: those who fell in love with Cube for its practicality and style, and those who were disappointed in the reliability of some components.
When choosing a used crossover hatchback, it is critical to rely not on marketing brochures, but on the real stories of those who encounter the car every day in city traffic jams and on the highways. We've analyzed hundreds of reviews to highlight key benefits and hidden drawbacks that could influence your purchasing decision. Find out what owners really think about fuel consumption, suspension and build quality this unusual car.
Design and ergonomics: love at first sight or disappointment?
The first thing that catches your eye when meeting with Nissan Cube is its asymmetrical design. The rear passenger window is moved back, which creates the illusion of space, but in reality this decision has a purely practical basis. Drivers note that this body geometry makes it much easier to get passengers on and off, especially in tight parking conditions. However, not everyone likes the angular silhouette, which looks futuristic, but can visually become outdated faster than classic shapes.
Inside the cabin you will find a spacious cabin where space is distributed as efficiently as possible. The front seats are equipped with armrests, which is rare for compact cars, and the rear bench folds into a flat floor, creating almost a cargo platform. Many owners praise quality of materials a dashboard that does not creak even after years of use. But there are also those who complain about the inconvenient placement of some controls and a specific view due to the high roofline.
Particular attention should be paid to the luggage compartment. Thanks to the almost vertical walls, the loading volume here is impressive for a car of this size. You can download to Cube large items that will not fit in a regular hatchback. However, the body shape imposes restrictions on aerodynamics, which directly affects noise at high speeds.
Engines and transmission: reliability of Japanese units
Under the hood Nissan Cube The most common are 1.6-liter gasoline engines, which have already proven themselves to be reliable and unpretentious engines. These units produce enough power for city driving, but on the highway with a full load there may be a lack of traction when overtaking. The owners note that fuel consumption in the combined cycle it is about 8-9 liters, which is an excellent indicator for such mass and dimensions.
The engine is usually paired with either a manual transmission or a continuously variable variator. CVT. The mechanics are reliable, but the variator requires special attention. Japanese transmissions of this type are prone to overheating during aggressive driving, so it is important to monitor the condition of the oil and change it on time. Some owners report a characteristic "hum" from the variator at high mileage, which is a sign of wear on the belt drive.
It is also worth mentioning that the dynamics of acceleration to 100 km/h leaves much to be desired, especially in winter. The car is not intended for racing; its element is calm movement around the city. If you plan to frequently hit the highway with a full load, it may be worth considering more powerful alternatives. However, for most urban tasks Cube fits perfectly, offering a smooth ride and no jerking.
It is important to consider that engine life directly depends on the quality of fuel and regular maintenance. Using low-quality gasoline can lead to rapid failure of fuel injectors and oxygen sensors. Owners with high mileage note that with proper care, engines can run more than 200 thousand kilometers without major repairs.
- Gasoline 1.6 (reliable)
- Gasoline 1.8 (powerful)
- Electric (Leaf)
- Diesel (rare)
Suspension and handling: comfort versus stability
Suspension Nissan Cube configured primarily for comfort, which allows you to ignore minor unevenness in the road surface. Soft shock absorbers perfectly absorb shocks, making the ride pleasant for passengers. However, this softness comes at a price: during high-speed turns or during sharp lane changes, the body experiences noticeable roll. Drivers accustomed to sporty driving may call the steering “wobbly.”
The beam-type rear suspension works predictably, but can feel stiff in big potholes. This is especially noticeable if the car is loaded with passengers and luggage. However, for the city this compromise is optimal. Body geometry creates the illusion of instability due to the high seating position, but in practice the car holds the road confidently, especially on dry asphalt.
The steering has good effort at low speeds, making it easy to maneuver in tight yards. The hydraulic booster operates smoothly without creating sudden surges. However, on the highway at speeds above 100 km/h the steering becomes too light, which requires constant concentration. Many owners recommend installing stiffer springs to improve handling if you do a lot of highway driving.
⚠️ Attention: Due to the high center of gravity and the specific body shape Nissan Cube more susceptible to skidding on slippery roads than classic sedans. Be extremely careful when overtaking in rain and snow.
Body reliability and corrosion resistance
One of the most common questions in reviews concerns anti-corrosion protection. Body Nissan Cube does not have ideal rust resistance, especially in regions with aggressive winter chemicals. Most often, corrosion appears on the sills, arches and where the bumpers are attached. Owners are advised to check the paintwork immediately after purchase and, if necessary, carry out additional treatment.
The paintwork is quite thin, and small chips from gravel can quickly lead to the appearance of reddish marks. This is especially true for the rear arches, where stone impacts are most common. However, with timely care of the body, the car can serve for years without serious problems. Pay attention to the condition of the door seals, as their destruction can lead to water entering the interior.
Glasses and optics should also be examined carefully. The plastic elements of headlights become cloudy over time, reducing lighting efficiency. In some cases, owners are faced with the problem of rear lights fogging due to a leak. These nuances are not critical, but require regular attention and repair costs.
☑️ Body inspection checklist
Operating costs and maintenance
Owners Nissan Cube Overall satisfied with the cost of service. Parts for this vehicle are available, although some interior and exterior items may cost more due to their uniqueness. Regular maintenance does not break the bank, and consumables correspond to the price of analogues for other Japanese cars. The main thing is not to skimp on the quality of oil and filters.
Fuel consumption is one of the strengths of the model. In the urban cycle, the car consumes about 9-10 liters of gasoline, which is excellent for such a volume. On the highway this figure drops to 6-7 liters. It does Cube an economical choice for daily travel. However, it is worth considering that when using an air conditioner, consumption may increase by 1-1.5 liters.
Insurance and taxes are also within reasonable limits due to the small engine size and class of the car. Many owners note that spare parts for the suspension and chassis are affordable and easy to replace. However, specific interior elements may require ordering from abroad, which will increase the repair time.
When purchasing a used Nissan Cube, be sure to check the service history. The absence of records of oil changes in the variator is a red flag that requires an immediate check of the transmission at the stand.
Comparison table of characteristics
For clarity, let’s compare the main technical indicators of different modifications Nissan Cube, available on the secondary market. This will help you understand the differences in resource dynamics and consumption.
| Modification | Engine size | Power | Consumption (city) | Gearbox type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 Base | 1.6 l | 110 hp | 9.2 l | Manual transmission / CVT |
| 1.6 SL | 1.6 l | 110 hp | 9.4 l | CVT |
| 1.8 S | 1.8 l | 122 hp | 10.1 l | CVT |
| 1.8 Platinum | 1.8 l | 122 hp | 10.3 l | CVT |
As can be seen from the table, the difference in power between versions 1.6 and 1.8 is small, but this is reflected in the dynamics of acceleration and fuel consumption. The version with a 1.8 liter engine is more preferable for those who often drive on the highway or transport cargo. However, versions with a 1.6 liter engine are more common and cheaper to maintain.
In winter, when using a stove and heating, the numbers may be higher. In the summer, when driving in traffic jams with the air conditioning on, consumption also increases. Consider these factors when planning your budget.
The choice between the 1.6 and 1.8 engine depends on your priorities: if savings are important, take the 1.6; if you need dynamics and power reserves, spare no expense on the 1.8.
Hidden problems and nuances that sellers are silent about
In addition to the obvious advantages, Nissan Cube There are a number of hidden problems that can only appear after long-term use. One of them is the air conditioning system. In some models, the compressor may fail prematurely, and replacing freon does not always help solve the problem. Owners are advised to check the operation of the climate control when purchasing, especially in hot weather.
Another common problem is electrical. Malfunctions of the power windows, central locking or tire pressure sensors may occur. This is due to the quality of the wiring and connectors. Sometimes a complete replacement of the harness or re-soldering of the contacts is required. It is also worth paying attention to the operation of the system Start-Stop, if it is installed, since the battery in it operates under difficult conditions.
Owners also note problems with sound insulation. At high speeds, road and wind noise enters the cabin, reducing comfort. Installing additional sound insulation can significantly improve the situation, but this will require additional costs. Some owners recommend replacing standard mirrors with higher quality analogues to improve visibility.
What to do with a CVT when purchasing?
If you buy a car with a CVT, be sure to have it diagnosed at a specialized service station. Change the oil in the box and check the pressure in the valve body. Ignoring these procedures may result in costly repairs in the future.
Don't forget about the specifics of the body. Due to the high seating position and wide track, the car may catch on its bottom when driving onto curbs or into deep holes. This is especially true for versions with large wheels. Therefore, when choosing tires, it is better to give preference to options with a smaller profile in order to increase ground clearance.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Nissan Cube with a mileage of more than 150,000 km, be sure to check the condition of the engine mounts. Their wear can lead to vibrations and damage to suspension components.
Results: who is the Nissan Cube suitable for?
To summarize, we can say that Nissan Cube is a car for those who value individuality and practicality above sporty dynamics. It is ideal for young families, girls, students or people who need a reliable city car with a large trunk. Its uniqueness attracts attention, and the spacious interior pleases with comfort.
However, if you're looking for a vehicle for aggressive driving, frequent off-road driving, or long-distance travel with a full load, this option may not be suitable. Weak suspension and specific aerodynamics will make such trips less comfortable. It is also worth considering that liquidity on the secondary market for this model is lower than for classic crossovers.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you like the design and are willing to put up with some operating nuances, Nissan Cube will be an excellent companion. The main thing is to carefully check the technical condition before purchasing and be prepared for regular maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Nissan Cube in the city?
In the urban cycle, fuel consumption averages 9-10 liters per 100 km for the version with a 1.6 liter engine. The 1.8 liter version consumes about 10-11 liters, especially in traffic jams and when using the air conditioner.
Is the CVT reliable on the Nissan Cube?
CVT CVT on Nissan Cube reliable provided that the oil is changed regularly (every 40-50 thousand km) and a calm driving style. With aggressive driving and overheating, the service life may decrease, so it is important to monitor the temperature of the transmission.
Is body corrosion a common problem?
Corrosion occurs, but is not critical. Most often, rust appears on the sills, arches and where the bumpers are attached. Timely anti-corrosion treatment and care of paintwork helps to avoid serious problems.
Is it comfortable to sit in the back row?
Yes, thanks to the specific shape of the body and the window moved back, legroom and headroom in the back row are very large. Seating is comfortable, but access may be limited due to the shape of the doorway.
Is it worth buying a Nissan Cube for the track?
For the track Cube suitable, but with reservations. Due to the high seating position and aerodynamics, there is noise and instability at speeds above 120 km/h. The car best reveals its capabilities in urban mode.