A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
3.8/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.2
Comfort & Interior
4.2
Running Costs
4
Practicality
4.3
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for something truly unique that stands out from the crowd? The Nissan Cube is exactly that, a quirky and distinctive compact car that refuses to blend in with conventional hatchback designs. This unconventional Japanese import offers a boxy, asymmetrical design that’s either love it or hate it, but never ignore it. While it may not compete directly with mainstream choices like the Ford Fiesta or Nissan Micra, the Cube appeals to drivers who want personality over conformity. Inside, you’ll find surprisingly spacious accommodation thanks to that tall, angular body, plus practical features that make daily driving genuinely enjoyable. The 1.6 litre petrol engine provides adequate performance for city driving, while the CVT automatic transmission keeps things smooth and simple. Running costs are reasonable, with decent fuel economy and affordable insurance groups making it accessible for younger drivers. The Cube’s biggest appeal lies in its individuality and the conversations it starts wherever you park. If you’re tired of looking at identical silver hatchbacks and want something that reflects your personality, the Nissan Cube delivers character by the bucketload. It’s practical transport with a sense of humour, perfect for drivers who appreciate Japanese quirkiness and aren’t afraid to be different.
What's the Nissan Cube Like to Drive?
The Nissan Cube prioritizes efficiency and urban usability over outright performance. The 1.6-litre petrol engine produces around 110 horsepower, which feels adequate rather than exciting. In town driving, where the Cube feels most at home, there’s enough power to keep up with traffic and nip through gaps. The CVT automatic gearbox is smooth but can feel sluggish when you need quick acceleration for motorway merging.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.6L 4-cylinder petrol
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Power Output
110 bhp
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0-60 mph
11.8 seconds
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MPG Combined
35-40 mpg
- Boot Space
- 295 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Nissan Cube?
Step inside the Cube and you’re greeted by one of the most interesting interiors in its class. The dashboard features unique ripple textures and unusual colour combinations that immediately set it apart from conventional rivals. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with a good range of adjustment to help you find the perfect driving position. The large windows and glass roof create an incredibly airy, light filled cabin that feels much more spacious than the exterior dimensions suggest.
The Nissan Cube is a bold, unconventional compact car that thrives on its quirky, boxy design, offering a standout presence on the road. While its 1.6-litre engine feels adequate for urban driving, it lacks punch for highway merges. Comfort and interior quality are strong, with ample space and premium materials. Practicality is high, though running costs are reasonable. Best suited for city dwellers seeking a distinctive, no-nonsense commuter.
Is the Nissan Cube Expensive to Run?
The Cube’s running costs are one of its strongest selling points. The 1.6 litre petrol engine returns decent fuel economy, with real world figures typically falling between 35-40 MPG depending on your driving style. Insurance groups are reasonable for the class, though they may be slightly higher than for more conventional alternatives. Parts and servicing costs are generally affordable, with Nissan’s reliable reputation helping to keep maintenance bills predictable.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Nissan Cube
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Honda Jazz
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Toyota Yaris
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £15,000 | £18,000 | £17,500 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.6L petrol 110hp | 1.3L petrol 102hp | 1.3L petrol 100hp |
| Power | 110 bhp | 102 bhp | 100 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 11.8 seconds | 12.3 seconds | 11.8 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 38 mpg | 42 mpg | 45 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 295 litres | 354 litres | 286 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Unique styling, Spacious cabin, High driving position | Excellent reliability, Magic seats, Great fuel economy | Hybrid options, Low running costs, Strong residuals |
Nissan Cube Practicality & Boot Space
Don’t let the quirky exterior fool you, the Cube is remarkably practical for everyday use. The 295 litre boot is a decent size for the class, easily handling the weekly shopping or a couple of medium suitcases. The boxy shape means you can actually use every bit of available space, unlike cars with sloped rear windows that eat into cargo room. The rear seats fold flat to create a surprisingly large load area when needed.
The Nissan Cube stands out as one of the most characterful choices in the small car market. It successfully combines genuinely distinctive styling with impressive interior space and solid build quality. While it may not offer the latest technology or most efficient engines, it delivers something far more valuable: personality and practicality in equal measure.