2009 Nissan cube: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The big news for 2009 is the Nissan cube’s U.S. debut. This third-generation model is an all-new arrival, not an update to an earlier U.S.-market cube.
About the 2009 Nissan cube
3rd generation (Z12), first U.S. model year
Nissan positioned the cube as a city-friendly small wagon with more personality and more cabin flexibility than a typical compact hatchback. Its appeal centered on easy parking, upright seating, a roomy interior for five, and a sliding/reclining rear seat, all wrapped in a shape that stood apart from rivals. Buyers chose it for style, clever space use, and everyday practicality more than outright performance.
The 2009 cube is a compact, city-friendly wagon with an asymmetrical body and a roomy, lounge-like cabin. The Base trim pairs a six-speed manual with a sliding and reclining rear seat, while the SL has an automatic transmission, automatic climate control, and 16-inch alloy wheels. The Krom special edition stands out with a factory body kit, Bluetooth, Rockford Fosgate audio, and 20-color cabin accent lighting.
What changed, by category
2009 Nissan cube specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT | Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 28 mpg | 24 mpg | 28 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 29 mpg | 30 mpg | 29 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 122 hp | 122 hp | 122 hp | 122 hp |
| Torque | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 58.1 cu-ft | 58.1 cu-ft | 58.1 cu-ft | 58.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.5 in | 35.5 in | 35.5 in | 35.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Cruise Control | ||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was 2009 the first year for the Nissan cube in the United States?
Yes. The 2009 Nissan cube was the model’s first U.S. model year and brought the third-generation cube to American showrooms.
Was the 2009 Nissan cube a redesign?
Yes. The 2009 cube was an all-new third-generation model for the United States, rather than a light update or carryover.
What trims were part of the 2009 Nissan cube lineup?
The 2009 Nissan cube lineup consisted of Base, S, SL, and Krom trims. Krom was the factory-customized version, with unique exterior pieces plus upgraded audio and cabin features.
What engine and drivetrain did the 2009 Nissan cube have?
Every 2009 Nissan cube used a 122-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive. The Base had a six-speed manual transmission, while the SL and Krom used a continuously variable automatic transmission.
What safety equipment was standard on the 2009 Nissan cube?
Every 2009 Nissan cube had six airbags, stability and traction control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, and Brake Assist as standard equipment.