Nissan Cube (2010 – 2011) Review

December 2009

The Cube has been conceived as a totally different take on an automobile. From the ground up it challenges convention, placing function ahead of form. Inside theres a lounge-style space for five with a clever, inspired and surprisingly open occupant space with a Jacuzzi Curve layout offering a space for relaxing, travelling and socialising.

A large triple-layered glass roof is fitted as standard, giving a light and airy atmosphere throughout the cabin. As well as the traditional blind to prevent heat build up on sunny days, there is a shoji shade, inspired by traditional Japanese shades made of rice paper which can be drawn across the sunroof, allowing light to enter but minimising heat build up.

Measuring only 3,980mm in length the Cube is designed to be the perfect urban transporter, with a wheel-at-each-corner design maximising interior space without compromising the compact external footprint. Its beautifully functional: Nissans designers affectionately describe the Cube as a bulldog in sunglasses.

And in keeping with its relaxed approach to transport, theres nothing on the Cube price list to stress out the urban driver. The simple model range has been designed to offer a straightforward choice. The line-up consists of only 2 grades, starting at £14,000. Each version provides a template for drivers to create their own, customised Cube using a range of accessories and tattoos.

Even though the angular Nissan has been a cult car in Japan since 1998 with over 1million sold to date, so far British drivers have been deprived of a Cube experience. To celebrate the Cubes long awaited arrival in the UK, the first 100 examples sold will all be LDN special editions, finished in a unique Bitter Chocolate colour with matching suede interior trim. Priced from £14,600, the LDN also comes with climate control, rain sensing wipers and auto headlamps as standard. The Cube is set to remain a cult phenomenon in its first year as only around 2,000 will find their way to the UK.

The standard Cube grade not only introduces iconic asymmetric design to your driveway, but also includes a glass roof, rear privacy glass and Bluetooth and cruise control. Spend a little more and you can upgrade to Kaizen trim. Available from £15,100, this adds the Nissan Connect audio and navigation system, a rear parking camera and full climate control to the lengthy standard equipment list.

The engine range is just as simple. Providing the perfect partner for every Cube buyer, Nissans 1.6-litre 108bhp petrol engine gives the Cube emissions as low as 151g/km and combined fuel economy as high as 42.8mpg. The only decision is whether to choose the sharp-shifting manual transmission or opt for Nissans advanced CVT. Anyone looking to minimise running costs over a higher mileage should look out for a frugal 1.5-litre diesel engine joining the Cube range in May.

Cube UK line-up at launch:

• Cube 1.6 manual £14,000
• Cube 1.6 CVT £15,200
• Kaizen 1.6 manual £15,100
• Kaizen 1.6 CVT £16,300
• LDN (special edition) 1.6 manual £14,600 £15,800
• LDN (special edition) 1.6 CVT £15,800