Honda Cube: an unusual compact with a Japanese character

If you're looking for a car that stands out from the crowd, combines practicality with unique design and remains reliable, then Honda Cube - one of the most unusual options on the market. This compact hatchback, released by the Japanese auto giant, has become a cult car thanks to its cubic shape, non-standard interior layout and economical engines. But is it suitable for everyday use? Let's figure it out.

Model Cube was produced from 1998 to 2014 (with interruptions in some markets) and during this time managed to win the love of fans of extraordinary cars. In Japan it was positioned as a city car, and in the USA and Europe - as a stylish and economical hatchback for young people. Today buy Honda Cube can be found mainly on the secondary market, and this is a great chance to become the owner of a rare car with character.

Design: why does the Honda Cube look so unusual?

The first thing that catches your eye when you see Honda Cube, is his asymmetrical body shape. The car really looks like a cube with rounded corners, but with one important feature: the windshield is offset to the right relative to the center of the body. This is not a design whim, but a thoughtful solution to improve driver visibility.

The appearance of the car is complemented by:

• 🔹 Vertical taillights — their shape resembles the letter “L”, which gives the car a futuristic appearance.
• 🔹 Short hood and high ground clearance (150 mm) - make the car convenient for the city and parking.
• 🔹 Panoramic windshield — improves visibility, but requires tinting from the sun.
• 🔹 Doors with non-standard opening - the rear door opens against the direction of travel (as in Mazda RX-8), making it easier to get into the back seat.

Interior Cube no less original: the front panel is made in the style of a “two-level shelf”, and the steering wheel and pedals are shifted closer to the center of the cabin. This creates the feeling that you are sitting not in a car, but in a futuristic capsule. However, this design is not for everyone: some find it convenient, while others find it unusual to the point of discomfort.

Technical specifications: what's under the hood of the Cube?

Honda Cube has never been famous for its powerful engines - it is a typical city car with an emphasis on efficiency. Depending on the generation and market, the model was equipped with the following power units:

Generation	Engine	Volume, l	Power, hp	Gearbox	Fuel consumption (city), l/100 km
1st (1998–2002)	D15B	1.5	105–110	4 automatic transmission / 5 manual transmission	7.5–8.0
2nd (2002–2008)	L13A	1.3	83–90	CVT / 5 manual transmission	6.5–7.0
3rd (2008–2014)	L15A	1.5	100–110	CVT	6.0–6.5
3rd (hybrid, Japan)	LDA-MF6 + electric motor	1.3	98 (combined)	CVT	4.5–5.0

The most interesting option is hybrid version Cube Hybrid, which was only sold in the Japanese domestic market. It was equipped with a system IMA (Integrated Motor Assist), similar to the one installed on Honda Insight And Civic Hybrid. Such a car could drive up to 20–25 km on electricity alone (at speeds up to 50 km/h), making it an ideal choice for eco-conscious drivers.

However, most Cube on the secondary market - these are gasoline versions with variator (CVT). This box provides smooth acceleration, but requires careful handling: CVT oil needs to be changed every 60,000 km, otherwise the risk of breakdown increases sharply.

Pros and cons of the Honda Cube: is it worth buying?

Like any non-standard car, Honda Cube has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's look at them in detail.

✅ Benefits:

• 🚗 Unique design — you definitely won’t lose your car in the parking lot.
• 💰 Low fuel consumption — especially in the hybrid version (4.5–5 l/100 km).
• 🏙️ Ideal for the city — compact dimensions (3.99 m in length) and good maneuverability.
• 🔧 Honda reliability — with proper maintenance, engines and gearboxes last 300,000+ km.
• 🚪 Comfortable fit - thanks to the high ceiling and large sunroof (optional).

❌ Disadvantages:

• 🛣️ Weak dynamics — acceleration to 100 km/h takes 12–14 seconds.
• 💨 Noisy on the highway - due to the shape of the body and poor sound insulation.
• 🔄 Low secondary liquidity - sell Cube can be difficult due to its niche nature.
• 🔧 Expensive spare parts — many parts have to be ordered from Japan.
• 🚗 Uncomfortable rear seats - Suitable for children or short trips only.

Particular attention should be paid suspension. Due to the high body and short wheelbase Cube prone to swaying on uneven surfaces. At speeds above 100 km/h the car can “drift” on the road, so it is poorly suited for long trips.

Which generation of Honda Cube should you choose?

During production Honda Cube changed three generations. Each of them has its own characteristics that should be taken into account when purchasing.

1st generation (1998–2002)

The rarest and most raw. The design was not yet as bold as in subsequent versions, but proven engines of the series were used here D. Main problems:

• 🔋 Weak electrical (fuses often burn).
• 🛠️ Body corrosion (especially in arches and sills).
• 🔧 4-automatic transmission is not the most reliable (it’s better to look for a manual one).

2nd generation (2002–2008)

The most balanced. Appeared engine L13A (1.3 l) with the system i-DSI, which combined efficiency with acceptable dynamics. Also debuted in this generation variator (CVT), which with proper maintenance lasts a long time. Cons:

• 🔊 Noisy engine operation at high speeds.
• 🚪 Problems with the back door (may sag over time).

3rd generation (2008–2014)

The most technologically advanced and stylish. appeared here 1.5 liter engine L15A (100–110 hp), which became more powerful than its predecessor, but remained economical. Also debuted in this generation hybrid version (Japan only). Unfortunately, CVT has become less reliable - many owners complain of jerking and premature wear.

If you are choosing between generations, the best option would be 2nd generation with manual transmission or 3rd generation with hybrid installation (if you find it in good condition).

Service history (especially CVT oil changes)

Suspension condition (shock absorbers, struts)

The operation of the rear door (does it sag)

No corrosion on the body

Electrician (all lamps, windows, climate control) -->

Operation and maintenance: what to pay attention to?

Like any Japanese car, Honda Cube requires regular maintenance. Here are the key points that will help extend the life of your car:

🔧 Engine and transmission

• 🔹 Engine oil — change every 7,000–10,000 km (synthetics 5W-30 or 0W-20).
• 🔹 CVT oil - replacement every 60,000 km (use only original fluid Honda CVT-F).
• 🔹 Timing belt - on engines L13A/L15A it is chain driven, but requires a tensile test after 150,000 km.

🚗 Suspension and steering

• 🔹 Shock absorbers — they last about 80,000–100,000 km, but due to the high body they wear out faster.
• 🔹 Wheel bearings — may begin to buzz after 120,000 km.
• 🔹 Steering rack — sometimes leaks, requires replacement of seals.

⚡ Electrics

• 🔹 Battery — the hybrid version lasts 5–7 years, but replacement is expensive (from 50,000 rubles).
• 🔹 Generator - may fail after 150,000 km.
• 🔹 ABS dampers - often get dirty, which causes an error message to appear on the dashboard.

What to do if the "Check Engine" light comes on?

The most common reasons:

1. Problems with the oxygen sensor (lambda probe).

2. Malfunction of ignition coils (on engines L13A/L15A).

3. Clogged throttle valve.

4. Problems with the system VTEC (if any).

First read the errors using a scanner (eg ELM327), then proceed with the repair.

Pay special attention air conditioning system. B Cube It works at full power, but the air conditioner radiator often becomes clogged with dirt, which leads to freon leakage. It is recommended to flush the radiator every 2 years.

⚠️ Attention! If you buy Honda Cube with a mileage of more than 150,000 km, be sure to check the compression in the cylinders. Engines L13A/L15A prone to oil burns after a long mileage, especially if the previous owner filled in with cheap oil.

Alternatives to Honda Cube: what else to see?

If you liked the concept Honda Cubebut you want to consider other options, here are some alternatives with similar features:

Model	Pros	Cons	Price (resale), rub.
Nissan Cube	More spacious interior, reliable CVT	Less economical, weak dynamics	400 000–700 000
Toyota bB	Durable body, good sound insulation	Outdated 4-automatic transmission, high consumption	500 000–900 000
Honda Fit	Practical, reliable, economical	Less original design	350 000–800 000
Scion xB	More powerful (1.5–2.4 l), good equipment	Expensive spare parts, rare on the market	600 000–1 200 000

If you care practicality, then it’s better to take a closer look Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris. If you are looking for unusual design, then Nissan Cube or Scion xB will become worthy competitors. However, in terms of price, reliability and uniqueness Honda Cube remains one of the best options.

Owner reviews: real operating experience

To form an objective opinion about Honda Cube, we analyzed reviews from owners on forums and social networks. Here's what they say:

✅ Pros from the owners:

“The car is just super for the city! I park anywhere, the consumption is 6 liters, everyone turns around when I pass by.” — Alexey, Moscow

“I bought a 2005 Cube with a manual transmission - not a single serious breakdown in 3 years. I only change consumables.” — Dmitry, St. Petersburg

“Design is something! Everyone takes pictures and asks what kind of car it is. You feel like a star.” — Olga, Ekaterinburg

❌ Cons from the owners:

“It’s terribly noisy on the highway, and if there’s a side wind, it blows away like a feather.” — Igor, Novosibirsk

“The CVT started to twitch after 100,000 km. The repair cost RUB 80,000.” — Sergey, Kazan

"The back seats are only for children. It's impossible for an adult to sit there." — Maria, Krasnoyarsk

Many owners note that Honda Cube - this is a car "not for everyone". It is not suitable for those who value performance or comfort over long distances, but is ideal for those who want to stand out and save on fuel.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Honda Cube

🔹 How much does a Honda Cube cost on the secondary market?

The price depends on the generation, mileage and condition:

• 1st generation (1998–2002) — 200,000–400,000 rub.
• 2nd generation (2002–2008) - RUB 350,000–600,000
• 3rd generation (2008–2014) — 500,000–900,000 rub.

Hybrid versions are 20–30% more expensive.

🔹 Is it possible to install HBO on a Honda Cube?

Technically yes, but there are some nuances:

• On engines L13A/L15A ECU tuning is required.
• The variator (CVT) does not tolerate operation on gas well - the service life is reduced.
• It is better to install a 4th generation HBO with a lambda probe emulator.

Average installation cost - 40,000–60,000 rub.

🔹 What is the real fuel consumption of the Honda Cube?

Depends on engine and driving style:

• 1.3 L13A (CVT) — 6.5–7.5 l/100 km (city).
• 1.5 L15A (CVT) — 7.0–8.0 l/100 km (city).
• Hybrid - 4.5–5.5 l/100 km.

On the highway, consumption drops to 5.0–6.0 l/100 km, but only at speeds up to 90 km/h.

🔹 What kind of oil should I pour into the Honda Cube engine?

Manufacturer's recommendations:

• For L13A/L15A — 0W-20 or 5W-30 (synthetic).
• Volume - 3.5–3.7 l (with filter).
• Replacement interval - 7,000–10,000 km.

Top Brands: Honda Ultra LEO 0W-20, Idemitsu Zepro 5W-30, Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30.

🔹 Where is the best place to buy spare parts for Honda Cube?

Main options:

• Original - from official dealers Honda or through honda-parts.ru.
• Analogues — Denso, NGK (candles), Aisin (CVT), KYB (shock absorbers).
• Used from disassembly - verified: jp-car.ru, amayama.com.

Average prices for popular spare parts:

• Spark plugs - 500–1,200 rub./set.
• Brake pads (front) - 2,500–4,000 rub.
• CVT oil (Honda CVT-F) — 4,000–6,000 rub./4 l.