🚗 Nissan Cube — Quirky Charm Meets Sporty Fun
By Paquito Jr Conde | August 12, 2025
The Nissan Cube isn’t just another compact car — it’s a statement on wheels. With its unique boxy shape, roomy interior, and fun personalization options, this funky ride stands out from the crowd. From practical city cruising to sporty trims like the Krom and AUTECH Rider, it blends personality with everyday usability. ✨
🚗 Nissan Cube — Quirky Charm Meets Sporty Fun
Here’s a look at the Nissan Cube in all its unique glory — from the original funky design to sportier editions like the Krom and AUTECH Rider. Whether you love its boxy personality or crave its creative interior, there’s a lot to discover! ✨
📋 General Specs & Features
- 🛠 Produced from 1998–2019; sold in North America from 2009–2014.
- 🚙 Mini-MPV with front-engine, front-wheel-drive or optional e-4WD (electric rear drive).
⚙️ Engine & Performance
- 🔧 1.8L 4-cylinder engine (122 hp, 127 lb-ft torque).
- ⚡ Transmission: 6-speed manual or CVT.
- 🏁 0–60 mph in ~9.7 seconds.
⛽ Fuel Economy
- CVT: ~27 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (combined ~29).
- Manual: ~25 mpg city / 30 mpg highway (combined ~27).
🛋 Interior & Space
- 🪑 Spacious interior with sliding/reclinable rear seats.
- 📦 Up to ~58 cubic feet of cargo space with seats folded.
- 🚪 Side-opening “refrigerator-style” rear door for easy access.
🎨 Design & Customization
- 🪟 Iconic asymmetrical wrap-around rear window.
- 🐶 “Bulldog” inspired grille, water-ripple interior motifs.
- 💡 Fun personalization options: color lighting, shag dash toppers, unique trims.
🛡 Safety
- ✅ Stability & traction control, multiple airbags.
- 🏆 Safety ratings: IIHS “Good”; NHTSA 4/5 stars front, 5/5 stars side.
🏅 Awards
- Top 10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000 (KBB).
- Top 10 Road Trip Cars.
- IIHS Top Safety Pick.
- Japan Good Design Long Life Design Award (2018).
🔥 Sporty Editions
💎 Krom Edition (US)
- Sporty bumpers, grille, side sills, rear spoiler.
- 16-inch alloy wheels, premium interior, leather accents.
- Rockford Fosgate audio, Bluetooth, and upgraded trim.
🏁 Rider / AUTECH Models (Japan)
- Sport suspension with Yamaha rear dampers, lower ride height.
- 16-inch wheels, sport body kit, unique interior trim.
- “Black Line” version adds bi-xenon headlights and darker chrome.
📊 Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ⚠️ Cons |
|---|---|
| Distinctive design that stands out. | Looks are polarizing — not everyone’s taste. |
| Excellent urban maneuverability & visibility. | Soft handling and light steering feel. |
| Flexible interior & clever cargo solutions. | Fuel economy only average for its size. |
| Comfortable ride & roomy rear seats. | Noticeable wind/road noise at high speeds. |
| Strong safety & Nissan reliability pedigree. | CVT reliability concerns (needs regular fluid changes). |
| Great customization options. | Parts can be harder to find due to low sales. |
💬 Owner Insights
🗣 “Most people’s gripes about the Cube were its poor gas mileage for a compact, and lackluster handling. If those don’t bother you, go for it.”
🗣 “Unless you find one that’s had the transmission fluid changed every 30k miles, it will blow up…”
💡 Why Consider Buying One?
If you love quirky style, spacious and versatile interiors, and a personality-packed daily driver, the Nissan Cube—especially a sporty Krom or AUTECH Rider—can be a perfect match. It’s comfortable, safe, and endlessly customizable. 🎯
However, if you want sharp handling, top-tier fuel economy, or worry about long-term parts/service availability, you may want to check other options before deciding. 🚦