2011 Nissan cube: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2011 Nissan cube is a small fuel-economy improvement for CVT-equipped models, which reach 29 mpg combined. Otherwise, this is a quiet carryover year with a few trim-level equipment updates.
About the 2011 Nissan cube
3rd gen (Z12, 2009-2014 US), third U.S. model year, no major refresh.
Nissan marketed the cube as a small city-friendly wagon with standout design and an unusually roomy, lounge-like cabin. Its core appeal was not speed or sportiness; it was the mix of a tall roof, easy maneuverability, sliding and reclining rear seats, and a cabin full of distinctive shapes and details. Against boxy rivals like the Scion xB and Kia Soul, the cube leaned harder into comfort, quirky style, and an almost living-room-like interior feel.
The base cube keeps things simple with a six-speed manual and a sliding, reclining rear bench, while the S adds everyday comforts such as Bluetooth and cruise control. The SL is the more polished regular trim with a CVT, automatic climate control, and automatic headlights. The S Krom Edition is the factory-styled special, with unique body pieces, touchscreen navigation, a rearview camera, and an upgraded audio system with a subwoofer.
What changed, by category
2011 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 w/Overdrive | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 27 mpg | 27 mpg | 25 mpg | 27 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 31 mpg | 31 mpg | 30 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 122 hp | 122 hp | 122 hp | 122 hp |
| Torque | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft |
| 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 View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2011 Nissan cube redesigned?
No. The 2011 Nissan cube keeps the same third-generation body, 1.8-liter engine, cabin layout, and basic trim structure as the previous year.
Did the 2011 Nissan cube get better fuel economy?
Yes. CVT-equipped 2011 cubes improve slightly to 29 mpg combined, while the engine and transmission choices otherwise remain unchanged.
Is the 2011 S Krom Edition a new trim?
No. The previous Krom continues under the S Krom Edition name for 2011. Its notable update is a 5.0-inch touchscreen navigation system in place of the older color audio display.
What changed on the 2011 Nissan cube SL?
Fog lights become standard on the 2011 cube SL. Its other notable equipment includes a CVT, automatic climate control, automatic headlights, Bluetooth, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Is the 2011 Nissan cube meaningfully different from the 2010 model?
Only slightly. The 2011 model brings better fuel economy for CVT versions, standard fog lights on the SL, and touchscreen navigation for the renamed S Krom Edition, but it is not a redesign or major refresh.