Nissan’s Box Car Cube
Once Had a 7-Seater Model
Revisiting Its Remarkable Interior Utility
With its distinct boxy design, the Nissan Cube has earned a dedicated fanbase despite no longer being available as a new model. Recognized for its unique, dice-like shape, the Cube has remained a popular choice in the used car market, valued for its quirky aesthetics, surprisingly spacious interior, and solid performance. Its larger-than-expected cabin space and compact car footprint make it an appealing option for those seeking utility in a smaller package.
With the increasing popularity of outdoor activities, the Nissan Cube’s compact size and versatile interior have gained renewed attention. While most Cube models offer two rows of seating and accommodate five passengers, a seven-seater version has three rows. This model is perfect for camping and as a family vehicle, showing how a small car can transport up to seven people.
Utility and Versatility for Outdoor Adventures
The second-row seat has a unique folding structure that moves the seat forward and then folds the backrest. Thanks to this, when both the second and third-row seats are folded, they can be flattened along with the trunk floor. Here, you can go vehicle camping by simply laying a mat without going through a separate, complicated process. If you spread the space between the first and second-row seats as much as possible and fold the first-row backrest back, you can create a space to lie down.
Even with its compact size, the Cube maintains comfort and convenience, with features like a bench seat in the front and hidden storage compartments throughout the cabin. Its small dimensions—less than 4 meters in length—don’t compromise its ability to transport seven people or serve as a capable vehicle for outdoor activities.
Discontinued but Still in Demand
Regarding powertrain, the early models were equipped with a 1.4L 4-cylinder gasoline engine, a 4-speed automatic transmission, and a CVT. However, when it was pointed out that it was not enough to move a car that was 100 kg (220.5 pounds) heavier than the base model of Cube, a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine was installed starting from the minor change model launched in 2005. In addition, an e-4WD option was also provided, which drives the front wheels with the engine and the rear wheels with an electric motor.
Unfortunately, the Nissan Cube Cubic was discontinued in November 2008 when the third-generation Cube was launched. Many people criticized the third-row seats as narrow, and the lack of a sliding door was also a disadvantage, leading to poor sales. However, there is still demand for used cars. As of the end of October 2024, transactions occur at prices ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 yen (about $655 to $3,276).
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