The "different" looking Nissan Cube proves that a basic boxy shape can be made exciting and functional.
Now in its second year, and based on the likable Versa platform, the Cube creates an environment that youthful drivers are looking for.
At first glance, you can't help but stare. Cube's overall shape is "boxy," but the pronounced wheel openings and glass give it a bit of a rounded look.
I like how Cube's designers took the rear glass and gave it the appearance of wrapping all the way around the right side of the vehicle into the right rear door. That's fashionable and quite unique.
And it doesn't stop there. You have to look inside. The cabin is actually the centerpiece of Cube's appeal. Cube's cabin is comfortable and stylish.
Thanks to Cube's upright shape and wheels that are pushed to the corners, the interior features ample head and legroom for 6-footers, both in front and back.
Seating is for five but the "lounge sofa"-style rear bench seat will be most enjoyed by two, not three. It's worth noting that the rear bench seat not only offers theater-style seating for better rear passenger comfort and visibility, but it also reclines and slides back and forth with 6 inches of movement.
The only downside is that there isn't much cargo space behind the back seat when it's in use and slid to its rear-most position. However, if you need space to haul lots of stuff and not passengers, you can fold the rear seatbacks down. And unlike other vehicles in this segment, Cube's cargo area is accessed by a refrigerator-style rear door that opens right to left.
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2010 Nissan Cube is offered in three trim levels: Cube 1.8, Cube 1.8 S and Cube 1.8 SL. Starting price is about $14,000 and standard features include remote keyless entry, power windows and locks, antilock brakes, traction control, vehicle dynamic control and much more.
Available Cube technology features include Nissan intelligent key with push button ignition, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six upgraded speakers, XM satellite radio and interface for iPods.
For 2010, a new 4.3-inch color audio display with rearview monitor is offered on the Cube 1.8 S Krom Edition and with the SL Preferred Package.
All Cubes are powered by a 122-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. In the base model, the engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
The Cube 1.8 S can be ordered with either the manual or a continuously variable transmission. The Cube 1.8 S Krom Edition and Cube 1.8 SL come equipped only with the CVT.
The Cube's fuel economy rating is 25/30 with the manual and 27/31 with the CVT. It would probably do a bit better on the highway if its shape were more aerodynamic.
At highway speeds, Cube's upright physique leads to a bit more wind noise than you might expect. But being a 6-footer, I'll take Cube's spacious and comfortable cabin over a quieter ride.
Cube is fun to drive but its four-cylinder engine won't push you back in the seat. Acceleration is adequate when lightly loaded, but lags when all the seats are occupied and the air conditioning is turned on.
I also noted that my Cube 1.8 S tester's six-speed manual transmission seemed to require more shifting around town than usual because the unit liked fifth gear more than fourth while cruising at around 40 mph.
Still, I like the Cube and everything it offers. Those who choose the Cube will also like the ability to personalize it to their taste.
2010 Nissan CubeENGINE: 122-horsepower 1.8-liter I-4
TRANSMISSION: six-speed manual
DRIVETRAIN: front-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 25 city/30 highway
BASE PRICE: $15,350
AS TESTED: not available
WEB SITE: www.NissanUSA.com