If you are the owner Nissan Cube Z11 (2008–2014), then you probably know: this car is not just a vehicle, but a style statement. Its cubic shape and extraordinary design make the car an ideal platform for tuning. But where to start? Appearance, suspension, engine - there are a lot of options, but the budget is limited. This article will help you figure out which modifications are really worth the investment and which ones are better to avoid.
We analyzed the experience of owners, reviews from tuning studios and technical features Cube Z11to create the most practical guide possible. There are no template tips here - only specific solutions for a specific model. For example, why wide wheels on Z11 require modification of archeslike chip tuning on the 1.8-liter MR18DE engine gives +15 hp. without loss of resource, and why the suspension is from Nissan Juke fits the Cube better than it looks.
External tuning: how to preserve the uniqueness of Cube
Main advantage Cube Z11 - its memorable design. But many owners mistakenly try to make a car “like everyone else’s”, losing its individuality. Instead, you should focus on original details.
Let's start with body kits. The standard Z11 bumpers already have aggressive lines, so just add a splitter on the front bumper and a small diffuser at the rear. Full body kits (for example, from D-Speed or J's Racing) are only suitable for cruising - they worsen ground clearance and increase the risk of damage on bad roads.
- 🔥 Vintage style: chrome moldings on the doors and eyelashes on the headlights (suitable for restyled versions 2011+).
- 🎨 Color accents: two-tone roof paint (for example, black bottom + white top) or bright mirrors.
- 💡 Light: LED strips under the thresholds or in the interior (but don’t overdo it - Cube not Toyota Prius, where it looks appropriate).
One of the most controversial but effective options is installing a radiator grille from Nissan Juke. It fits perfectly into the mounts and gives the front end a more sporty look. However, this requires reflashing the fan control unit, since the airflow changes.
- Sports (low-slung, aggressive body kits)
- Utilitarian (knuckle guard, crankcase protection)
- Vintage (chrome, two-tone paint)
- JDM (original Japanese parts)
- Your own option
Suspension: low, but not dangerous
Standard ground clearance Cube Z11 — 160 mm, which is a lot for a city hatchback. Many owners want to lower the car, but there are pitfalls. For example, springs Tanabe or Tein will reduce the ground clearance by 30–40 mm, but at the same time:
- ⚠️ Wheel camber angles will change, which will lead to uneven tire wear.
- ⚠️ On bumps the pan will hit (especially on versions with an engine
MR20DE).
The best option is adjustable suspension BC Racing or KW. It allows you to raise the car on uneven surfaces while maintaining a low appearance in the city. Alternative - springs Swift Spec-R (lowered by 25 mm) + shock absorbers Konig.
| Suspension type | Reduced clearance | Cost (RUB) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Springs Tanabe NF210 | 30–40 mm | 18 000–22 000 | Low price, hardness +20% | Rubber wear, risk of contact |
| Kit Tein Street Basis Z | 25–35 mm | 65 000–75 000 | Complete replacement, improved handling | Requires camber adjustment |
| BC Racing BR-Type | Adjustable | 120 000–140 000 | Flexibility of settings, durability | High price, difficult installation |
⚠️ Attention: If you omit Cube more than 40 mm, be sure to install stabilizer strut spacers (for example, from Whiteline). Otherwise, on sharp turns you will hear creaking and knocking.
Engine and transmission: chip tuning vs. mechanics
Nissan Cube Z11 equipped with two gasoline engines: MR18DE (1.8 l, 122 hp) and MR20DE (2.0 l, 140 hp). Both engines are reliable, but have some room for tuning.
Chip tuning - the most affordable way to increase power. For MR18DE firmware from UpRev or EcuTek gives:
- 🚀 +12–15 hp (up to 135–137 hp) with correct ignition settings.
- 🔧 Improved responsiveness of the gas pedal (removes “brooding” at low speeds).
- ⚠️ Risk of detonation if refueling with gasoline below AI-98.
Suitable for mechanical tuning:
- 🔥 Intake manifold from Nissan Juke: improves cylinder filling at high speeds (+5–7 hp).
- 💨 Issue 4-2-1 (spider): for example, from DC Sports or Megan Racing (adds 8–10 hp, but requires welding).
- ⚙️ Gearbox: on version with CVT you can install the control unit from Nissan Sentra for sportier shifts.
Check the compression in the cylinders (must be at least 12 bar)
Install new spark plugs (for example, NGK Iridium IX)
Replace the air filter (preferably with a sports one, for example, K&N)
Carry out diagnostics for errors (codes P0300–P0304 unacceptable)
Prepare AI-98 gasoline (minimum 20 liters for the test) -->
If you need not so much power as efficiency, consider installing fan control unit from Nissan Note. It allows fans to be turned off earlier, reducing the load on the generator and saving up to 0.3 l/100 km.
Salon: practicality vs. tuning
Interior Cube Z11 spacious, but cheap plastic. Many owners try to “ennoble” it, but often go overboard with decorative elements. Main rule: maintain ergonomics.
Let's start with seats. Sports seats (eg Bride or Recaro) look cool, but Cube they will deprive rear passengers of legroom. It's better to pay attention to:
- 🪑 Alcantara covers: improve grip without taking up extra space.
- 🔄 Adjustable steering column: can be taken from Nissan Tiida (suitable for fastenings).
- 🎛️ Multimedia: replacing the standard radio with Pioneer AVH-X5900 with support Apple CarPlay.
One of the most useful upgrades is dashboard lighting. Standard light bulbs have a dim yellow light that is difficult to read during the day. Replacement with White LED lamps (5000K) will cost 1,500–2,000 rubles, but will significantly improve visibility.
How to remove the dashboard without damage?
1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
2. Remove the plastic trim around the panel (it is held on by 4 clips).
3. Unscrew the two bolts under the steering wheel (10mm wrench).
4. Carefully pull the panel towards you, disconnecting the connectors (do not pull the wires!).
5. Use tweezers to replace lamps - they are fragile.
If you want to radically change your interior, consider reupholstery of dashboard and door panels with leather or vinyl covering. It's expensive (from 50,000 rubles), but it transforms the interior. The main thing is not to use glossy materials: they glare and distract from the road.
Wheels and brakes: a balance between style and safety
Standard wheels Cube Z11 — 15 or 16 inches (depending on configuration). Many people install 17-inch wheels, but there are some nuances:
- 🚗 Maximum rim width: 7.5J at departure
ET40. Wider ones will require rolling out the arches. - 🛑 Brake calipers: on versions with
MR20DEthey are larger, so the disks must have high hump. - ⚠️ Rubber: avoid profile below 45 - suspension Cube not designed for hard sidewalls.
Popular disk options:
| Model | Size | Departure (ET) | Price per set (RUB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enkei PF05 | 17×7.0 | 42 | 80 000–90 000 |
| Rays Gram Lights 57DR | 17×7.5 | 40 | 120 000–140 000 |
| Konig Hypergram | 16×7.0 | 45 | 50 000–60 000 |
Brakes on Cube rather weak for a sporty driving style. You can improve them:
- 🔥 After installing perforated wheels DBA 4000 (front: 280 mm, rear: 260 mm).
- 🧊 By replacing the brake fluid with Motul RBF 600 (boiling point 312°C).
- ⚠️ Do not install calipers from Nissan 350Z! They are not compatible with ABS Cube and require a complete rework of the brake system.
If vibration appears on the steering wheel after replacing the discs, check the wheel balancing and the condition of the wheel bearings. Often the problem lies not in the discs, but in worn suspension parts.
Electronics and gadgets: what you really need
Modern gadgets can do Cube Z11 more convenient, but not all of them are justified. For example, keyless entry (keyless entry) is convenient, but its installation will cost 25,000–30,000 rubles. and will require intervention in the standard alarm system.
Here's what's really worth doing:
- 📱 Android Auto / Apple CarPlay: through the radio Pioneer SPH-DA120 or Kenwood DMX8019.
- 🔋 Additional USB port: can be output to the glove compartment or armrest (adapter required
USB 2.0 → Mini-USBfor standard wiring). - 🚨 Rear view camera: Any one with a resolution of 720p is suitable (for example, Boyo VTL375).
- 🔦 LED foot lighting: ribbons Philips LEDstrip with door opening sensor (price: 2,000–3,000 rubles).
One of the most useful upgrades is installing engine start button. For this you will need:
- Module Fortin EVO-ALL (RUB 15,000).
- From button Nissan 370Z (fits the connector).
- Immobilizer firmware (will cost 5,000 rubles in service).
⚠️ Attention: If you are installing additional electrical equipment (such as a subwoofer), do not connect it directly to the battery. Use isolation via relay (For example, Bosch 0 332 209 150) to avoid overloading the generator.
Tuning for rides: what really works
If you are planning to participate in rides or just want to Cube stood out, here are some proven solutions:
Sound: B Cube Z11 excellent noise insulation, so even an average subwoofer (for example, Pioneer TS-WX1210A) will sound powerful. The main thing is to set the frequencies correctly:
- 🎵 Bass: 40–60 Hz (not lower, otherwise the plastic will rattle).
- 🎶 Mid frequencies: 2–4 kHz (for vocals).
Airbrush: On a cubic form Cube look good:
- 🎨 Geometric patterns (for example, pixel graphics on the hood).
- 🖌️ Gradient transitions (from dark to light on the roof).
- ⚠️ Avoid voluminous stickers - they peel off in the wash.
Light: Legal options:
- 💡 LED lamps in PTF: for example, Osram LEDriving FOG (color temperature 6000K).
- 🔦 DRL: ribbons Philips DayLightGuide into the bumper (doesn't blind oncoming people).
On rides, the main thing is not to overload the electrics. If you have more than 3 additional consumers installed (subwoofer, LED, camera), be sure to install extra battery (For example, Optima YellowTop).
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to install a turbine on MR18DE?
Technically yes, but it's impractical. Block MR18DE not designed for high pressure, so you will need:
- Install forged pistons (from JE Pistons).
- Replace connecting rods with H-shaped (for example, from Manley).
- Put intercooler and modify the cooling system.
The cost of such tuning is from 300,000 rubles, and the increase in power will be only 40–50 hp. It is much more profitable to swap the engine at MR20DD from Nissan Juke (190 hp in stock).
What's the cheapest way to improve your appearance?
Painting wheels in a contrasting color (for example, black or gold) + installation eyelashes on headlights (500–1,000 rub.). You can also replace the standard hubcaps with discs Enkei Compe (15 inches, price: RUB 20,000–25,000 per set).
What oil is best to fill in after chip tuning?
For engines MR18DE And MR20DE after flashing, it is recommended to use oil with a viscosity 5W-40 and admission API SN or ILSAC GF-5. Optimal options:
- Motul 8100 X-Cess 5W-40 (synthetic, suitable for high loads).
- Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-40 (good wear protection).
Change the oil every 7,000–8,000 km - after tuning, the engine runs in a more severe mode.
Is it possible to install all-wheel drive on Cube Z11?
No, this is technically impossible. Cube Z11 built on a platform Nissan B, which does not have an all-wheel drive version. Alternative - installation self-locking differential (For example, Quife LSD), but this will only improve acceleration on a straight line, and not cross-country ability.
What is the most reliable way to increase clearance?
Install spacers for springs (for example, from Daystar, height 25–30 mm). They do not impair handling and cost only 5,000–7,000 rubles. per set. Alternative - springs King Springs (+20 mm to standard ground clearance).