“For me, a manual transmission is an absolute must. I prefer to "drive" my car, not just "aim" it. I'm really disappointed that you (and most other manufacturers) no longer build certain models with manual transmission. I would have preferred a Rogue or a Murano.”
Nissan cube: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Nissan cube is a small five-seat wagon known for fitting a roomy, flexible cabin into a short, city-friendly shape. Its unusual boxy styling, asymmetrical rear design, and side-hinged cargo door give it more personality than a conventional small hatchback.
The cube has always put space, friendliness, and visual character ahead of sporty driving. Its tall body creates an open, lounge-like cabin while keeping the outside compact and easy to park. In the U.S., that formula remained largely unchanged from its 2009 arrival through its final 2014 model year.
Strengths
- Its tall, short shape provides a surprisingly roomy cabin while remaining easy to park in the city.
- Wide outward visibility and easy entry help make everyday driving less stressful.
- The sliding rear seat lets owners adjust the cabin for passengers or cargo.
- Its asymmetrical shape and side-hinged rear door give it a character few small wagons share.
- The 2014 cube was rated at 27 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Who it's for
The cube suits city drivers, first-time buyers, and small households that want easy parking without settling for a cramped interior. It also makes sense for someone who values simple practicality and distinctive design more than quick performance or a conventional look.
Nissan cube lineup
Across the U.S. run, the S served as the mainstream trim and is the sensible place to start for the cube’s core mix of space and personality. The SL was the upper trim, so it fits shoppers who want a more fully equipped version; in later years, it also included conveniences such as push-button start. Earlier lineups included a more basic entry trim, while Krōm and S Indigo appeared as special editions. By 2013 and 2014, the lineup had been simplified to S and SL.
Nissan cube generations
From 2009 to 2014, the cube spans 1 generation. The current 3rd Generation — Z12 arrived for 2009.
3rd Generation — Z12 (2009–2014)
This is the cube generation sold in the U.S., with an asymmetrical tall-wagon shape, a roomy lounge-like cabin, and a compact footprint. Every year used a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive.
0 In Stock
2014
The cube carries over with S and SL trims. This was its final U.S. model year.
2013Trim changes
The base cube 1.8 trim is dropped, leaving S and SL.
2012Trim changes
The S Indigo special edition joins the lineup. SL gains standard keyless entry and push-button start, while S and SL gain a front-passenger armrest.
2011Trim changes
Mostly a carryover year, with a small fuel-economy improvement for versions with the automatic transmission.
2010
S and SL gain Bluetooth and steering-wheel audio controls. S gets upgraded audio with iPod integration, while Krōm gains keyless entry, a color display, USB connectivity, and a rearview camera.
2009New generation
The third-generation cube launches in the U.S. with base, S, SL, and Krōm trims.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Nissan cube.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of vehicle is the Nissan cube?
The Nissan cube is a small, five-seat wagon with a tall roof and a short, city-friendly footprint. Its upright shape creates a roomy, open-feeling cabin and makes it easier to see out than many conventional small hatchbacks.
Does the Nissan cube have a normal liftgate?
No. The Nissan cube has a side-hinged rear cargo door rather than a liftgate that swings upward. That unusual door is one of the model’s signature design features.
Is the Nissan cube a good city car?
Yes. The Nissan cube’s short footprint, good outward visibility and easy entry suit crowded streets and tight parking. Its tall cabin also provides useful passenger space without making the vehicle especially long.
How practical is the Nissan cube for passengers and cargo?
It is practical for a small wagon. The cube seats five and has a 60/40-split rear bench that slides and reclines. In the final U.S. lineup, maximum cargo capacity was 58.1 cubic feet.
Who is the Nissan cube a good fit for?
The cube fits shoppers who value easy access, a roomy cabin, flexible seating and distinctive styling in a compact vehicle. It makes more sense for that buyer than for someone seeking sporty handling or maximum fuel economy.
How long was the Nissan cube sold in the U.S.?
The third-generation cube was sold in the U.S. from 2009 through 2014. The 2009 model introduced this version, and 2014 was its final U.S. model year.
Is the Nissan cube a hybrid or does it have AWD?
No. U.S.-market cubes from this generation use a gas-powered 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. The lineup did not include a hybrid or AWD version.
Nissan cube Reviews
What owners are saying about the Nissan cube.
4.6
Nissan cube
(31 reviews)
“I bought the Cube because it was quirky. It had very comfortable seats and a roomy interior. I had no choice of vehicle or color. There was only one Cube available and I had to wait a month to get it.”
“I purchased this new cube because my other one was totaled in a car crash and the safety features saved my life. I will never drive anything else.”
“THE ONLY THING THAT I DO NOT LIKE ABOUT MY NEW CUBE IS THAT THE HORN IS NOT LOUD ENOUGH.”
“I love my Cube. It's so me. I'm always happy when I have to go somewhere. It makes the going fun!”
“My Nissan Cube is the bomb, sure it's not for racing but it'll get you from point A to B safely with spare change in your pocket because you didn't have to blow it on gasoline. I drive it every day and enjoy it, too bad 2014 is the last year they're making it for the US market.”