The Nissan Cube: Japan's Most Iconic Box Car Revisited
The Birth of a Quirky Icon
In the late 2000s, as fuel prices soared and urban spaces shrank, Nissan introduced America to one of Japan's most distinctive compact cars - the Cube. This wasn't just another small car; it was a rolling statement of Japanese "kawaii" (cute) culture wrapped in an asymmetrical, boxy package that challenged conventional automotive design.
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Key Design Philosophies
Shiro Nakamura, Nissan's former design chief, described the Cube's unique approach:
- "Standing still in motion": Unlike cars designed to look fast, the Cube embraced its stationary aesthetic
- Asymmetrical styling: The rear window wraps around one side in a waterfall design
- Maximized interior space: 90.9 cubic feet from just 156.7 inches length
- Youthful customization: Designed for personal expression with interchangeable accessories
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Generational Evolution: From Japan to America
First Generation (1998-2002)
- Japan-only release
- 1.3L and 1.4L engines (65-97 hp)
- Inspired by London taxi cabs
- Developed cult following in Japan
Second Generation (2002-2008)
- Adopted more rounded edges
- Introduced e-4WD hybrid system
- 1.4L engine with 94 hp
- 40+ mpg fuel efficiency
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Third Generation (2008-2019)
- First US-market version (2009)
- 1.8L engine with 122 hp
- Asymmetrical rear window design
- Discontinued in 2014 (US), 2019 (Japan)
The Cube's journey to America came after the surprising success of the Scion xB, proving there was a market for Japanese box cars in the US. However, Nissan took a different approach by keeping the Cube's design more faithful to its Japanese roots rather than Americanizing it. Engineering Quirks and Innovations
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The e-4WD System
The Japanese-market Cube featured an innovative electric all-wheel-drive system:
- Rear wheels powered by electric motor only
- No mechanical connection to front wheels
- Activated below 25 mph for slippery conditions
- Added just 88 lbs versus conventional AWD
- Maintained flat floor for maximum interior space
Why the Cube's Small Engine Mattered
While American buyers typically demanded more power, the Cube's modest 1.4L (94 hp) and later 1.8L (122 hp) engines delivered exceptional fuel economy - up to 40 mpg highway. This efficiency came from:
- Lightweight construction (2,500 lbs)
- Aerodynamic tricks despite boxy shape
- Low rolling resistance tires
- CVT transmission option
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Driving Experience: Charm Over Performance
On the Road
Contemporary reviews noted:
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 9.5 seconds (1.8L)
- Handling: Surprisingly nimble in city driving
- Visibility: Excellent with tall greenhouse
- Ride quality: Comfortable but prone to body roll
- Noise levels: Noticeable wind noise at highway speeds
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Interior Practicality
Where the Cube truly shined:
- Front bench seat: Rare in modern cars (Japan model)
- Cargo space: 58.1 cu-ft with seats folded
- Headroom: 41.4 inches (more than many SUVs)
- Creative storage: Wavy dashboard shelves, hidden compartments
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The Box Car Wars
The Cube arrived during a golden age of Japanese box cars:
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| Model | Years | Engine | MPG | US Sales Peak |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scion xB (1st gen) | 2004-2006 | 1.5L (108 hp) | 34 | 54,000 (2005) |
| Nissan Cube | 2009-2014 | 1.8L (122 hp) | 30 | 22,000 (2010) |
| Kia Soul | 2010-present | 1.6L (138 hp) | 31 | 145,000 (2016) |
Why the Cube Failed in America
Despite its charms, several factors limited the Cube's US success:
- Late market entry: Arrived as box car trend peaked
- Polarizing design: More extreme than Scion xB
- Limited marketing: Never gained Scion's youth appeal
- Small dealer network: Nissan lacked Toyota's Scion channels
- Crossover boom: SUVs began dominating by 2010
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The Cube Today: Cult Status and Collectibility
Current Market Values
2024 pricing trends show:
- Average price: $6,000-$12,000
- Low-mile examples: $15,000+ (rare)
- Most desirable: 2009-2011 Krom editions
- JDM imports: Right-hand-drive models gaining interest
Ownership Experience
What buyers report today:
- Reliability: Above average for Nissan products
- Parts availability: Mechanical components easy to find
- Customization: Active aftermarket community
- Fuel economy: Still impressive by modern standards
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MotorVero's Verdict
The Nissan Cube remains one of the most distinctive and memorable small cars of the 2000s. While it never achieved mainstream success in America, its bold design and clever packaging earned it a devoted following. Today, well-maintained Cubes offer affordable, efficient transportation with personality that's utterly absent from modern crossovers. For those tired of cookie-cutter cars, the Cube stands as a refreshing reminder of when automakers took risks with design.
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