In this article we will analyze in detail the **actual trunk volume** (from a modest **110 liters** in the standard configuration to an impressive **1330 liters** with the seats folded down), comparing it with competitors like Toyota Ractis or Honda Freed, and we will also reveal the secrets of interior transformation, which even dealers are silent about. You will learn how to load the trunk correctly, what accessories will increase its useful volume, and why Cube may be more practical than many crossovers.
If you are planning to buy a used one Nissan Cube or you are simply interested in its capabilities - this article will help you understand the nuances that are not obvious when you first get acquainted with the car. We collected data for all generations, added real photos of loading and prepared tables for visual comparison. Let's start with the most important thing - **basic characteristics of the luggage compartment**.
Official data: trunk volume by generation
The manufacturer states different figures for different markets and generations Nissan Cube. This is due not only to changes in design, but also to methods of measuring volume (according to standards VDA or SAE). Let's look at the key models:
**1st generation (Z10, 1998–2002)** - the most compact version. The trunk here is modest, but it’s enough for the city: The volume is only 110–130 liters in the standard seat position, but with the rear rows folded, the space increases to 850–900 liters. This generation is more focused on youth and urban use, where priority is given to maneuverability rather than carrying capacity.
**2nd generation (Z11, 2002–2008)** - a significant step forward. Engineers Nissan redesigned the platform, increasing the wheelbase and body height. Result:
- 📦 Standard volume: 170–190 liters (depending on configuration).
- 🪑 With seats folded: up to 1100 liters.
- 🔧 Feature: a function has appeared
Flexible Seating System— the back row can be moved back and forth by 20 cm, which allows you to vary the space.
**3rd generation (Z12, 2008–2019)** - the peak of the model’s evolution. Here the trunk has become not just larger, but also more functional:
- 📦 Basic volume: 220–250 liters (standard
VDA). - 🪑 Maximum volume: up to 1330 liters with seats fully folded.
- 🔄 Unique feature: asymmetrical folding of the rear row (
60:40), which allows you to transport long loads (for example, skis) without losing seats.
It is important to understand that **actual usable volume** may differ from what is stated. For example, in the 3rd generation, the high ceiling and rectangular body shape allow you to load luggage almost to the roof, while in competitors (for example, Kia Soul) the sloping rear end eats up some space.
- 1st (1998–2002)
- 2nd (2002–2008)
- 3rd (2008–2019)
- I haven't decided yet
Actual dimensions of the trunk: what fits in practice
Volume numbers are good, but how do they translate into practice? Let's figure out what you can carry in the trunk Nissan Cube without folding the seats and with their transformation.
**Standard configuration (seats up):**
- 🛒 Products: 4 large bags from the supermarket + 2 boxes of drinks.
- 🎒 Backpacks/suitcases: 2 medium suitcases (
24") or 3 backpacks with a volume of up to 30 liters. - 👶 Children's things: stroller
transformer(For example, Chicco Bravo Trio) folded + bag with accessories. - 🐕 Animals: transport box for a medium-sized dog (up to 50 cm in length).
**Rear row folded (maximum mode):**
- 🚴 Bicycles: 2 adult bicycles (wheels up) or 1 bicycle + additional weight.
- ⛷️ Sports equipment: skis up to 180 cm + boots and clothes for 2–3 people.
- 🛠️ Construction materials: 10 bags of dry mix (
25 kg), drywall (12 sheets 120×250 cm) or laminate for a room of 15 m². - 🎁 Large purchases: TV
55"in a box, refrigerator up to 140 cm high or furniture made of IKEA (for example, a cabinet Kallax).
**Secret life hack:** In the 3rd generation, under the trunk floor there is an additional compartment ~15 cm deep. Small things can be placed there (tools, spare tire dokatka, canister with washer). Don't forget about him!
| Generation | Volume (seats up) | Volume (seats folded) | Max. load length | Loading height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (Z10) | 110–130 l | 850–900 l | 120 cm | 65 cm |
| 2nd (Z11) | 170–190 l | 1100 l | 150 cm | 70 cm |
| 3rd (Z12) | 220–250 l | 1330 l | 180 cm | 75 cm |
| Toyota Ractis (for comparison) | 180 l | 1000 l | 140 cm | 68 cm |
| Honda Freed (for comparison) | 215 l | 1250 l | 160 cm | 72 cm |
Pay attention to **loading height** - this is critical for heavy loads. B Cube It is one of the lowest in its class (only 65–75 cm), making it easy to load without assistance.
If you are transporting fragile items (such as furniture or electronics), use anti-slip mats for the trunk. B Nissan Cube the floor is almost flat, but with sharp braking the load can slide towards the backs of the seats.
How to increase trunk volume: accessories and modifications
Even if the basic volume is not enough for you, there are ways to expand your capabilities Cube. Let's look at proven solutions - from factory options to tuning.
**1. Roof rack**
- 🚗 Rails: On the 3rd generation original roof rails are installed
Nissan (K0100-9M900)or universal (for example, Thule). Load capacity - up to 75 kg. - 📦 Boxes: A box with a volume of 300–400 l is suitable (for example, Thule Motion XT). Important: check compatibility with roof shape Cube - Due to the rounded edges, special fastenings may be required.
**2. Organizers and grids**
- 🧺 Fence mesh: Original mesh
Nissan (S0100-9M900)prevents cargo from flying into the cabin. An alternative is universal nets with hooks. - 📦 Modular boxes: System Cargo Organizer from Nissan or plastic containers from Really Useful Box (size
35×24×16 cmfits perfectly into the niche under the floor).
**3. Interior tuning**
- 🪑 Removable seats: In the 3rd generation, the rear row can be completely dismantled (requires removal of 4 bolts). This frees up space for loads up to 120 cm high.
- 🔧 Shelf above the trunk: A homemade plywood shelf (12 mm thick) increases useful space for small items. The main thing is not to exceed the load of 10 kg/m².
**4. Trailer**
- 🚛 Light trailer: Nissan Cube (especially with engine
1.8 l) pulls a trailer weighing up to 600 kg. Popular models: MZK Koala or Brenderup Tourer.
**Warning:** When installing roof rails or a trailer, check the **maximum roof load** (indicated in the manual). For Cube 3rd generation is 50 kg (including the weight of the roof rails and box). Exceeding this may result in body deformation!
Check the roof's load-carrying capacity in the manual.
Measure the width of the trunk (in the 3rd generation - 105 cm between the wheel arches)
Make sure the fasteners are not blocking the rear door
Use anti-corrosion treatment for bolts (especially when installing a towbar) -->
Comparison with competitors: who is more practical?
To evaluate the trunk Nissan Cube Objectively, let's compare it with its main rivals in the class of compact vans and minivans. We will take into account not only the volume, but also the ease of loading, body shape and additional options.
**1. Toyota Ractis (2005–2016)**
- ✅ Pros: more reliable suspension, better suited for bad roads.
- ❌ Cons: The trunk is narrower by 10–15 cm, making it more difficult to load long cargo.
**2. Honda Freed (2008–present)**
- ✅ Pros: folding seats
Magic Seat, trunk volume up to 1250 l. - ❌ Cons: higher price, less legroom in the second row.
**3. Kia Soul (2008–present)**
- ✅ Pros: stylish design, greater choice of engines.
- ❌ Cons: the trunk is 100–150 liters smaller than that of Cube 3rd generation.
**4. Suzuki Wagon R (2017–present)**
- ✅ Pros: the cheapest to maintain, high ground clearance.
- ❌ Cons: trunk is only 180 liters, poor sound insulation.
**Key Advantage Cube:** Thanks to the **rectangular shape of the body** and **high roof** it is easier to transport large loads here than in competitors with a sloping rear. For example, in Kia Soul furniture more than 1 m high does not fit, and Cube - easy.
| Model | Trunk volume (min/max) | Width between arches | Loading height | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Cube (Z12) | 220 / 1330 l | 105 cm | 75 cm | Asymmetrical seat folding, under-floor compartment |
| Toyota Ractis | 180 / 1000 l | 95 cm | 80 cm | Already the luggage compartment, but higher ground clearance |
| Honda Freed | 215 / 1250 l | 100 cm | 70 cm | Seats Magic Seat, but less legroom |
| Kia Soul | 180 / 1150 l | 102 cm | 85 cm | Stylish design, but the sloping back eats up volume |
The 3rd generation Nissan Cube is a leader in the “compact dimensions/trunk volume” ratio in its class. Its main advantages: rectangular shape, low loading height and flexible interior transformation.
Common mistakes when loading the trunk
Even in a car as sophisticated as Nissan Cube, mistakes may be made that will result in damage or inconvenience. Let's look at typical mistakes and how to avoid them.
**1. Rear axle overload**
⚠️ Attention: Maximum rear axle load Cube — 400 kg (indicated in the PTS). Exceeding this leads to suspension sagging and poor handling. For example, if you are carrying 5 bags of cement (25 kg × 5 = 125 kg), it's safe, but 10 bags (250 kg) is already risky.
**2. Incorrect load distribution**
- ❌ Error: Heavy things (batteries, tools) are placed in the back.
- ✅ Correct: Place weights closer to the backs of the front seats to prevent the center of gravity from shifting.
**3. Ignoring fasteners**
- ❌ Error: The load is not secured, especially with the seats folded down.
- ✅ Correct: Use original hooks
Nissan (S0100-9M901)or universal belts with carabiners.
**4. They forget about the compartment under the floor**
- ❌ Error: Small things (documents, tools) are lying around in the main compartment.
- ✅ Correct: Store them in a niche under the floor - this will free up space and protect against theft (the trunk door is centrally locked).
**5. Does not take into account the height of the load**
⚠️ Attention: In the 3rd generation, the maximum cargo height with the door closed is 100 cm. If you are carrying something higher (for example, a wardrobe IKEA PAX), cover the load with a tarpaulin and secure the tailgate with a rope (but do not exceed the speed of 60 km/h!).
**6. Neglects cleaning the trunk**
- ❌ Error: Sand, salt or moisture remain on the floor, causing corrosion.
- ✅ Correct: Use a rubber mat
Nissan (K0100-9M902)or universal WeatherTech — they protect the floor and are easy to clean.
What to do if the trunk does not close?
If after loading the back door Cube does not close, check:
1. Is the seal jammed (especially in the upper corners).
2. Does the load interfere with the closing sensor (in the 3rd generation it is located on the right).
3. Is the door warped due to overload (try lifting it by the handle when closing).
If the problem persists, the hinges may need to be adjusted or the gas stops replaced.
Operating issues: what the owner needs to know
trunk Nissan Cube requires not only proper loading, but also regular maintenance. Here are the key points that are often forgotten:
**1. Caring for the seat folding mechanism**
- 🔧 Lubrication: Once a year, treat the rear seat hinges with silicone lubricant (for example, WD-40 Specialist). This will prevent squeaking and jamming.
- 🧹 Cleaning: Dust and sand entering the mechanism accelerate wear. Vacuum crevices after off-roading.
**2. Moisture protection**
- ☔ Waterproof: In the 1st and 2nd generations, the rear door seal loses its elasticity over time. Check its condition and, if necessary, treat it with silicone grease.
- 💧 Condensation: If moisture appears in the trunk, use moisture absorbers (such as Dry Dry) or regularly ventilate the interior.
**3. Security**
- 🔒 Central lock: In the 3rd generation, the trunk is locked together with the doors, but in the 1st and 2nd generations it is locked separately. Don't forget to check it before you leave!
- 🚨 Alarm: Install a volume sensor (for example, Pandora DXL 3500) - it will work when the trunk is broken into.
**4. Tuning and improvements**
- 🔌 Additional lighting: In the trunk Cube There is often not enough light. Solution - LED strip
12Vwith a motion sensor (for example, Osram LEDriving). - 🔊 Soundproofing: Thin trunk walls allow noise to pass through. Use vibration isolation to improve acoustics StP Aero (thickness 2–3 mm).
**5. Operation in winter**
⚠️ Attention: In cold weather, the rubber trunk seals can freeze. Before opening the door, tap it lightly or use a defroster (e.g. Liqui Moly Tiefenwirksames Schloss-Eis-Spray). Do not use hot water - this will damage the seal!
FAQ: Answers to popular questions
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator with a height of 160 cm in a Nissan Cube?
Yes, but only in the 3rd generation (Z12) with the seats folded down. The height of the luggage compartment here is 100 cm, but if the refrigerator is tilted (for example, at an angle of 20°), it will fit. The main thing is to secure the load well with straps so that it does not move during braking. In the 1st and 2nd generations this is not possible due to the lower body height.
How much weight can a Nissan Cube trunk support?
The maximum load on the trunk (including passengers) is indicated in the vehicle title and depends on the generation:
- 1st generation: up to 350 kg (including weight of seats and cargo).
- 2nd and 3rd generation: up to 400 kg.
At the same time, the load on rear axle should not exceed 450 kg (indicated on the plate in the driver's doorway). Exceeding this leads to sagging of the springs and deterioration in controllability.
Is it possible to sleep in the trunk of a Nissan Cube?
Theoretically yes, but with reservations:
- In the 3rd generation, with the seats folded, the length of the flat surface is - 180 cm, the width (105 cm) is enough for one person.
- The height of the body allows you to sit, but only people up to 170 cm can lie down at full height.
- For comfort, you will need a thin mattress (for example, Inflatable Car Mattress) and a sleeping bag.
⚠️ Important: Do not sleep in a car with the engine running - it is dangerous due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning!
Which roof rack is suitable for Nissan Cube?
For 3rd generation (Z12) the following options are suitable:
- Original roof rails:
Nissan K0100-9M900(load capacity 75 kg). - Universal: Thule WingBar Evo (length 118 cm) or Yakima JetStream.
- Boxes: Thule Motion XT L (370 l) or Hapro Adventure Box (420 l).
For the 1st and 2nd generations, roof rails are not provided by the factory, but universal ones can be installed (for example, Rhino-Rack Vortex>) with mounting on doorways.
What to do if there is a squeak in the trunk?
Creaking in the trunk Nissan Cube usually caused by one of the following reasons:
- Friction of plastic panels: Treat the joints with silicone grease or apply felt pads.
- Rear door hinge wear: Lubricate them Litolom-24 or replace the stops (original -
Nissan 80510-4M000). - Problems with door shock absorbers: The 3rd generation uses gas struts
Nissan 80512-4M000(cost ~1500 rubles per piece).
If a squeak appears when driving, check the spare wheel mounting (in the niche under the floor) - it may be loose.