Nissan · 1998–2019

Nissan Cube

The Nissan Cube is a mini MPV produced by carmaker Nissan between 1998 and 2019. Initially sold only in Japan, the Cube was sold in North American markets from 2009 to 2014, and in European markets from 2009 to 2011. In Japan, it was exclusive to Nissan Red Stage dealerships. It is a slightly larger load-carrying alternative to the Nissan Micra hatchback. While production for the North American market ended in 2014, the Japanese-market Cube lasted until December 2019.

Text from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0).

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First generation (Z10; 1998)

The first-generation Cube was introduced in 1998. It shared the same platform as the Nissan Micra (known as the March in Japan and Southeast Asia), as well as the same 1.3 L inline-four engine. A continuously variable transmission and four-wheel drive were optional. The Cube helped narrow the gap in the Nissan lineup between the March and the Sunny. Mitsuoka Yuga (2000–2001). There was an aftermarket modified version of the Nissan called the Mitsuoka Yuga (光岡・ユーガ). This vehicle was launched in March 2000. The design harkens back to the London Taxi. For each drivetrain type there are two trim levels: the base grade Deluxe and the higher-end Royal. The higher-end model is equipped with features such as power windows and central locking.

Second generation (Z11; 2002)

The second-generation Cube was released in 2002 with a larger interior than the previous model. Its design was previewed by Nissan Chappo Concept that debuted at 2001 Geneva Motor Show The combination of angled and curved surfaces, more resembling a cube, was based on the third-generation Micra/March, powered by a 1.4-litre, inline-four engine. The model included the "e4WD" system as an option, which sends power to the rear wheels when the front wheels spin via a small electric motor on the rear underside of the floor. The electrically powered system allows for reduced drivetrain drag in FWD mode. A slightly longer, three-row model, the Cube³ (pronounced "Cube Cubic", model code GZ11) went on sale in September 2003. Until the second and final facelift in January 2007, the Cube³ had a different grille from the regular Cube. This, along with slightly longer rear doors, is the only external difference between the two. When equipped with a CVT, the steering wheel button controls and the sport wheel button on the dash panel are located next to the hazard flasher switch. In May 2005, the Cube had a light facelift which included the optional upgrade of the new HR-series 1.5 L engine from the Nissan Tiida. The Cube received another exterior update in January 2007. All Cube models have optional extras including an Ion filter (Air Ioniser) for cleaning the air and Nissan's 'smart key' which allows the driver to enter the car without having to use a key. Other options include a sunroof, 12 different styles of front grille and satellite navigation. Other specific models also have different styles of bodykits and fender flares. They come with optional 14 or 15 inch wheels and the Autech versions (Rider, Cube³ and GT models) with chrome styling and special seat covering. The second-g

Third generation (Z12; 2008)

The third-generation Cube was revealed for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show, on November 19, 2008. It was the first generation of the Cube to be officially exported beyond Japan, including to the European and North American markets. The Cube went on sale in Japan on November 19, 2008, and the U.S. on May 5, 2009. The updated model has more rounded and curved styling in the rear bumper area, in the asymmetrical rear window which wraps around to the passenger side, and in the driver and front-passenger windows. The tailgate is side-hinged to swing open like a door, rather than upward like a hatch. The hatch hinge is on the right side for countries with left-hand traffic such as Japan and the UK; on the left side for right-hand traffic markets such as North America. Seating capacity remains at five. According to Nissan designers, the interior is inspired by the 'enveloping curves of a jacuzzi to promote a comfortable and social atmosphere.' Design cues include a water-ripple motif that appears in the headliner and is repeated in details like the speaker covers and cup holders. Nissan has developed an extended line of accessories for Cube to encourage personalization. These include multicolour appliqués that can be placed around air vents and window switches, utility hooks and elastic bands in different colours, variable colour LED accent lighting for the footwell and cup holders, and a sculptured piece of colour-coordinated shag carpet that sits in a shallow well on the top of the dash. The third-generation Cube is built on the Renault-Nissan Alliance's front-wheel-drive B platform and powered by a 1.5 L HR engine, 16-valve engine with 109 PS (80 kW; 108 bhp). For North America, it uses the 1.8 L four-cylinder engine of the MR family, it produces 122 hp (91 kW)

Awards and recognition

Kelley Blue Book named the Nissan Cube one of its Top 10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000 and also as one of its Top 10 Road Trip Cars. Nissan Cube rated a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Automobile Design of the Year Award AAA Top vehicle picks for dog owners Nissan Cube won an AutoPacific's Best in Class Vehicle Satisfaction Award. Nissan Cube won the Japan Good Design Long Life Design Award of 2018.

Sections adapted from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0); text is shortened. Read the full article for the complete history and citations.

Specifications

name

Nissan Cube

Manufacturer

Nissan

Production

1998–2019

Assembly

Japan: Yokosuka, Kanagawa (Oppama Plant)

Class

Mini MPV

Body style

5-door hatchback

Layout

Front-engine, front-wheel-drive, Front-engine, four-wheel-drive

Platform

Nissan B platform

Model years

2009–2014 (North America)

Specification summary from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0). Check the linked sources for citations.

More photos

US EPA fuel-economy records

US EPA test figures (US MPG, US test cycle).

Sources

• Wikidata — https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1165443CC0 1.0 · retrieved 2026-10-01
• Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_CubeCC BY-SA 4.0 · Text © Wikipedia contributors; revision 1377160354 · retrieved 2026-10-01
• Wikimedia Commons — https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2008-2012_Nissan_Cube_15G.jpgCC0 · Photo: TTTNIS · retrieved 2026-10-01
• Car Model Index — https://models.autoculturesociety.com/Compiled record. Sources that do not permit reuse are not copied; this index is credited instead.

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