Nissan Cube is one of the most unusual and memorable cars of the Japanese brand, which has won an army of fans thanks to its unique design, practicality and comfort. Produced over three generations (1998–2019), this model has become a cult favorite among fans of compact minivans with a strong personality. But what do they say about Nissan Cube real owners? Is it worth buying this car today, especially on the secondary market?
In this article we have collected honest reviews o Nissan Cube from Russian and foreign drivers, analyzed typical problems, compared generations and highlighted key advantages and disadvantages. You will find out what hidden defects may await buyers of used copies, how things are with spare parts and repairs, and also get practical advice on operation.
Generations of Nissan Cube: brief overview and differences
Over 20 years of production Nissan Cube passed three generations, each of which had its own characteristics. Let's look at them in more detail to understand which option is better to choose.
First generation (Z10, 1998–2002) - the most compact and simplest. The car was equipped with gasoline engines with a volume of 1.3 And 1.4 liter, as well as diesel 2.2 (Japanese market only). The body was tall but narrow, which limited space for passengers. The main advantage is reliable mechanics and simplicity of design. The downside is poor sound insulation and modest equipment.
Second generation (Z11, 2002–2008) received a more modern design with rounded shapes and increased dimensions. New engines have appeared: 1.5 And 1.8 liter, as well as a variator CVT instead of a classic machine gun. The interior has become more spacious and ergonomics have improved. However, the owners note that CVTs of this period often fail after 150–200 thousand km.
Third generation (Z12, 2008–2019) - the most technologically advanced and comfortable. The car became wider and lower, received modern multimedia, climate control and improved sound insulation. The engines remained the same (1.5 And 1.8), but the variator was modified. The main disadvantage is the high price of new and used copies, as well as difficulties in finding spare parts for some modifications.
- 🔹 Z10 (1998–2002) — simple, reliable, but cramped and noisy.
- 🔹 Z11 (2002–2008) - a golden balance of price and comfort, but the risk of problems with the variator.
- 🔹 Z12 (2008–2019) - modern, but expensive to maintain.
- First (Z10, 1998–2002)
- Second (Z11, 2002–2008)
- Third (Z12, 2008–2019)
- I don't know, I haven't gone yet
Owner reviews: advantages of Nissan Cube
Despite the controversial design, Nissan Cube has many advantages that are highly valued by drivers. Let's look at the main ones.
1. Unique design and recognition. The car cannot be hidden in traffic - its asymmetrical shapes, large windows and “smiling” front end attract attention. Many owners note that Cube brings smiles to passersby and becomes the subject of conversation.
2. Spacious interior with compact dimensions. Thanks to the high roof and thoughtful layout, the interior is comfortable even for tall passengers. The rear seats can be folded, increasing the trunk to 420 liters (in the third generation). Owners praise the car for its practicality in the city and the ability to transport large loads.
3. Reliability and ease of repair (for the first two generations). Engines GA15DE (1.5 l) and MR18DE (1.8 L) are known for their durability. With proper maintenance they pass easily 300+ thousand km. Spare parts for the first two generations are available and inexpensive, especially if you buy contract parts from Japan.
- 🚗 Maneuverability — ideal for the city due to its small turning radius.
- 💺 Comfortable seats with good lateral support (in the third generation).
- 🔧 Simple design - You can do a lot of the work yourself.
⚠️ Attention: In the third generation (Z12) electronics have become more complex, and some sensors (e.g.throttle position sensor) may fail. Replacing them is expensive - up to15–20 thousand rublesfor the original part.
Owner reviews: disadvantages and typical problems
Despite the advantages Nissan Cube is not without its shortcomings. Many of them are related to the age of the car and design features.
1. Problems with the variator (CVT). This is especially true for the second generation (Z11). Owners complain of jerking during acceleration, overheating and premature belt wear. The average service life of a variator is 150–200 thousand km, after which expensive repairs are required (from 80 thousand rubles).
2. Poor sound insulation. In the first two generations at a speed higher 90 km/h the cabin becomes noisy. The third generation was improved, but to the level of European competitors (Volkswagen Caddy or Opel Meriva) he is far away.
3. Body corrosion. If the car was driven in regions with salty roads, rust may appear within 5–7 years. Most often, sills, arches and the lower part of the doors are affected.
| Problem | Generation | Repair cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Replacing the variator belt | Z11, Z12 | 30–50 thousand rubles |
| Suspension repair (struts, bushings) | All | 15–40 thousand rubles |
| Elimination of threshold corrosion | Z10, Z11 | 20–60 thousand rubles |
| Replacing the throttle sensor | Z12 | 10–20 thousand rubles |
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Nissan Cube with mileage, be sure to check the service history of the variator. If the oil has not been changed every 60 thousand km, there is a high risk of early repairs.
Before purchasing Cube second generation (Z11) check the oil level in the variator. If it is dark or smells burnt, this is a sign of wear. Also pay attention to the smoothness of the ride: jerks when changing gears indicate problems.
Fuel consumption: real numbers from owners
Official data on fuel consumption Nissan Cube often diverge from real indicators. Let's figure out what to expect in practice.
Cars with engine 1.5 (GA15DE) in the city consume 9–11 l/100 km, on the highway - 6.5–7.5 l/100 km. Motor 1.8 (MR18DE) is more voracious: in the city the consumption reaches 12–14 l/100 km, on the highway - 7–8 l/100 km. Owners note that the variator increases appetite by 1–1.5 liters compared to mechanics.
Several factors influence consumption:
- 🛣️ Riding style — aggressive driving adds
2–3 litersper hundred. - ❄️ Winter operation - consumption increases by
15–20%due to warm weather and bad roads. - 🔧 Condition of the engine and variator — worn parts increase fuel consumption.
How to reduce fuel consumption on a Nissan Cube?
1. Use quality oil (eg 5W-30 for the engine and original fluid NS-2 for variator).
2. Monitor your tire pressure - low tire pressure increases rolling resistance.
3. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, especially with a CVT.
4. Clean the air filter and spark plugs regularly.
Comparison with competitors: which is better?
Nissan Cube not the only compact minivan on the market. Let's compare it with its main competitors to understand whether this particular model is worth choosing.
1. Nissan Cube vs Honda Fit/Jazz. Fit more practical due to transformable seats Magic Seat, but inferior in originality of design. In terms of reliability they are approximately equal, however Honda cheaper to maintain.
2. Nissan Cube vs Toyota bB. Both cars have a custom design, but bB more angular and masculine. Toyota wins in reliability, but loses in comfort - interior Cube more spacious and quieter.
3. Nissan Cube vs Kia Soul. Soul more modern and dynamic, but Cube cheaper on the secondary market. In terms of practicality, they are approximately the same, but the Korean is better equipped with electronics.
| Characteristics | Nissan Cube (Z12) | Honda Fit (3rd generation) | Toyota bB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trunk volume (l) | 420 | 390 (1314 with seats folded) | 240 |
| Consumption in the city (l/100 km) | 10–12 | 8–10 | 9–11 |
| Average price on the secondary market (2015 onwards) | 800–1,200 thousand rubles | 900–1,300 thousand rubles | 700–1,000 thousand rubles |
The Nissan Cube outperforms its competitors in terms of original design and interior space, but loses in efficiency and maintenance costs (especially with a CVT).
Should you buy a Nissan Cube today?
Purchase decision Nissan Cube depends on your priorities. Let's figure out who this car is suitable for, and who should consider alternatives.
Buy Cube worth it if:
- 🚘 You need an unusual, memorable car with character.
- 🏙️ You often drive around the city and value maneuverability.
- 👨👩👧👦 A spacious interior for your family or transportation of goods is important to you.
- 💰 Are you ready to invest in maintenance (especially if you take the option with a variator).
Refuse Cube worth it if:
- 🛣️ You often drive on the highway - noise insulation and comfort at high speeds leave much to be desired.
- 💸 You are looking for the most budget-friendly car to maintain.
- 🔧 You are not ready to bother with CVT repair or corrosion.
Mileage and service history (especially CVT)
Body condition for corrosion
Operation of electronics (sensors, power windows, climate control)
Oil level and condition in the engine and variator
Test drive for jerks and extraneous noises-->
Where to look for spare parts and how much does repair cost?
One of the key questions when purchasing Nissan Cube is the availability of spare parts. Let's figure out where to look for them and how much repairs will cost.
1. Original spare parts can be ordered from official dealers Nissan, but their prices are often overpriced. For example, a new CVT will cost 200–250 thousand rubles, and the original racks are in 15–20 thousand rubles per piece.
2. Contract parts from Japan - a more budget option. Many owners order spare parts at auctions or through intermediaries. For example, a contract engine MR18DE worth it 80–120 thousand rubles, and the variator - 50–80 thousand rubles.
3. Analogues from third-party manufacturers suitable for many consumables (filters, brake pads, shock absorbers). For example, racks Kayaba or Monroe will cost 8–12 thousand rubles per piece.
| Detail | Original (price) | Contract/analogue (price) |
|---|---|---|
| CVT (CVT) | 200–250 thousand rubles | 50–80 thousand rubles (contract) |
| Shock absorber struts (pair) | 30–40 thousand rubles | 15–25 thousand rubles (analogue) |
| Brake pads (set) | 5–8 thousand rubles | 2–4 thousand rubles (analog) |
| Generator | 25–35 thousand rubles | 10–15 thousand rubles (contract) |
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing contract parts from Japan, pay attention to the mileage of the donor car. The best option is spare parts from cars that have driven no more than 100 thousand km.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about the Nissan Cube
❓ Which Nissan Cube engine is the most reliable?
Considered the most reliable 1.5 liter GA15DE (second generation). It is easier to repair, more economical and less demanding than 1.8 liter MR18DE. However MR18DE more powerful and better suited for the trail.
❓ Is it possible to install gas equipment on Cube?
Technically yes, but there are nuances. The variator does not tolerate additional load well, so It is not recommended to install HBO on cars with CVT. There are no restrictions on mechanics, but it is important to choose quality equipment (for example, Lovato or BRC).
❓ How long does the CVT last on a Nissan Cube?
Average variator resource - 150–200 thousand km. However, with careful operation and regular oil changes (every 60 thousand km) it can last up to 250–300 thousand km. The main enemies of CVT are aggressive driving and overheating.
❓ Where is the best place to look for a Nissan Cube on the secondary market?
Optimal options:
- 🔹 Japanese auctions (through intermediaries) - there you can find copies in excellent condition.
- 🔹 Verified used car dealers with a guarantee.
- 🔹 Thematic forums (For example, Drive2 or Cube-Club), where owners sell their cars.
Avoid buying second hand without checking the history - there is a high risk of running into a car after an accident or with incorrect mileage.
❓ Is it possible to tune Nissan Cube?
Yes, Cube Popular among tuners due to its unusual design. Most often modified:
- 🔹 Appearance — vinyl stickers, other bumpers, LED optics.
- 🔹 Suspension - install springs TEIN or H&R for understatement.
- 🔹 Engine — chip tuning, release 4-2-1, zero resistance filter.
However, it is worth remembering that deep tuning of the engine reduces its service life, and lowering the suspension worsens comfort.