Last updated August 4, 2026
The Nissan cube lineup starts with the base model, which keeps the tall, flexible cabin and everyday essentials. The S is the straightforward core trim, adding useful features such as Bluetooth and cruise control. The SL is the comfort step-up, with an automatic transmission, push-button start, automatic climate control, and automatic headlights. Krom and S Krom Edition models take a different path, pairing factory-custom bodywork and distinctive cabin details with added technology such as a rearview camera and upgraded audio.
The Base Model trim level, sold simply as base, is the no-frills cube with the model’s boxy shape, upright seating, and flexible interior.
Best for: Shoppers who want the cube’s space and personality with straightforward equipment and a manual transmission.
Highlights
The Mid-Level trim level is the S, the everyday cube that keeps the practical layout while adding useful convenience features.
Best for: Drivers who want the cube’s core personality with a few more day-to-day conveniences than the base model.
Highlights
Adds Bluetooth hands-free calling and cruise control over the base model; later examples use a CVT automatic transmission.
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The Premium Comfort trim level is the SL, the comfort-focused cube with features that make daily driving easier without changing its practical character.
Best for: Shoppers who prefer an automatic transmission and added convenience such as keyless starting and automatic climate control.
Highlights
Adds a standard CVT automatic, push-button start, automatic climate control, automatic headlights, and 16-inch alloy wheels over the S.
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The Special Editions trim level covers Krom and S Krom Edition models, the factory-custom cubes known for bolder bodywork, distinctive interiors, and added technology.
Best for: Drivers who want the cube’s playful design turned up with special styling and more built-in cabin technology.
Highlights
Takes a more style-led route than the SL, adding Krom-specific bodywork, a rearview camera, upgraded audio, and distinctive cabin trim; display details vary by edition.
0 in stock| Feature | Mid-Level | Base Model | Premium Comfort | Special Editions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Includes | base0 in stock | Krom, S Krom Edition0 in stock | ||
| Transmission | CVT in later examples | 6-speed manual | CVT automatic | CVT on Krom |
| Entry and starting | Remote keyless entry | Remote keyless entry | Keyless entry and push-button start | Keyless entry and push-button start |
| Climate control | Air conditioning | Air conditioning | Automatic climate control | Automatic climate control |
| Rearview camera | — | — | — | Standard |
| Exterior theme | Original cube design | Original cube design | 16-inch alloy wheels | Krom-specific body styling |
| Cabin technology | Bluetooth hands-free calling | CD stereo with auxiliary input | Bluetooth hands-free calling | Upgraded audio; display varies by edition |
The early base cube is the simplest version, with a six-speed manual, air conditioning and power accessories. The S is the more useful everyday trim; later examples add features such as Bluetooth, cruise control and steering-wheel controls.
The SL adds convenience rather than more power. Across the lineup, it is associated with a CVT automatic, automatic climate control, automatic headlights and 16-inch alloy wheels. Newer SL models also have keyless entry and push-button start.
No. The S and SL use the same 122-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. The main mechanical distinction is that the SL uses a CVT automatic, while equipment and transmission details on the S vary by year.
The S is the straightforward pick. It keeps the cube’s roomy cabin, sliding and reclining rear seat, compact footprint and basic conveniences without the SL’s extra comfort hardware or the Krōm’s special styling.
The SL is the regular trim aimed at comfort and convenience. In this generation, its defining equipment includes automatic climate control, automatic headlights, alloy wheels and a CVT automatic, with keyless access and push-button start on newer examples.
The Krōm is a factory-styled special edition sold during the earlier U.S. years. It adds unique bumpers, side sills and a roof spoiler, plus upgraded cabin technology and distinctive interior trim.
The names refer to the same style-focused special-edition branch of the lineup. Nissan used the 1.8 S Krōm Edition name in 2011, while other materials shorten it to Krōm. Exact displays and equipment vary by model year.
The Krōm emphasizes custom-looking bodywork, upgraded audio and built-in technology. The SL is the more understated comfort trim, centered on automatic climate control, automatic headlights, alloy wheels and everyday convenience.
Look first at an early base cube. That trim is identified by its six-speed manual transmission and simpler equipment. The SL and Krōm use the CVT automatic, while an S should be checked individually because its transmission varies.
Krōm special editions include keyless access and push-button start. The SL also received this equipment in later years, and it became standard there for 2012. Earlier regular trims should be checked individually.
The Krōm is the trim most closely tied to those features. Earlier Krōm equipment included a color display and rearview camera, while the 2011 S Krōm Edition included a 5-inch touchscreen navigation system and rearview camera.
The Krōm is the one to seek for factory-upgraded audio. Its equipment included six upgraded speakers, a Rockford Fosgate subwoofer and amplifier, plus USB and iPod connectivity on later versions.
Yes. After Nissan dropped the base trim, the 2013 and 2014 U.S. lineups consisted only of S and SL. The base and Krōm names belong to earlier years of this generation.