Strengths:
Stylish, quirky look inside and out; passenger-friendly interior; very compact and easy to park; smooth ride; a lot of features for a low price; in-town fuel-efficiency
Overview
The Cube is available in basic S and better-equipped SL trims, with S trims offered with a choice of either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable automatic transmission, while the SL is only offered with the CVT. All Cube models are powered by a 122-horsepower, 1.8L 4-cylinder engine, providing adequate and economical operation and EPA fuel economy ratings of up to 27 mpg city, 31 highway (with the CVT).
Thanks to a suspension layout much like a small sedan, with MacPherson struts in front and a torsion beam setup in back, the Cube rides mostly flat and handles like a somewhat softly sprung small car; speed-sensitive electric power steering helps this boxy vehicle maneuver well around town--with its length of less than 157 inches shorter than some subcompact cars. Stopping power is provided by anti-lock front disc/rear drum brakes with Brake Assist, and S models come with 15-inch steel wheels while the SL gets 16-inch alloys.
The boxy, van-like exterior of the Cube pays off inside, with a layout that prioritizes passengers over cargo. There's a sofa-style sliding rear bench seat that can recline, as well as slide to three different positions, plus lots of storage spaces and a total of six cupholders plus 'shelves' at the instrument panel. Two interior color themes are offered: Light Gray, with a quilted suede fabric, and Black. The Cube has an unusual asymmetrical look that helps with outward visibility, as well as a side-opening hatch that Nissan says helps aid cargo access when in a tight parallel-parking spot.
The Cube S includes air conditioning, keyless entry, cruise control, cargo hooks, and a 6-speaker CD sound system with auxiliary input. In addition to that, the SL gets an Intelligent Key system, push-button start, automatic climate control, and rear heating ducts. Factory options are very limited, with the only significant one being the SL Preferred Package, which adds a navigation system with five-inch touch screen, a RearView Monitor, a USB port, Rockford Fosgate audio with upgraded speakers and a subwoofer and SiriusXM satellite radio compatibility.
There's plenty more room for extras, though--through the long list of more than 40 official accessories available at the dealership. Everything from special trims, wheels, and lighting kits are offered, as well as a cargo organizer.
Changes
For 2013, the Nissan Cube is only offered in S and SL trims, with the base model dropped from the lineup. One new exterior color, Sapphire Slate, has been added. Otherwise the Cube is carried over unchanged.
Value
Urban dwellers who have limited parking space and want something more stylish than the typical small car will probably find a lot to love in the Cube. There's nothing quite like it on the market, and its asymmetrical design, side-opening hatch, sofa-like rear seat, and water-ripple interior designs all make it quirky and endearing. The Cube drives well in the city and rides comfortably, with a low sticker price and great fuel economy to boot.