Nissan Cube Z12 (2008-2019): a complete guide to the “box on wheels”

What is Nissan Cube second generation and who is it suitable for?

Released in 2008 Nissan Cube Z12 became one of the most unusual cars on the market - a compact hatchback with a cubic shape, an asymmetrical rear window and a unique interior design. This model, produced until 2019 (in Japan) and until 2014 (in the USA), was positioned as a city car for young people and creative people who value individuality. But in reality Cube Z12 turned out to be much more practical than it seemed: despite its modest dimensions (3.98 m in length), it offered a spacious interior with a high ceiling and convertible seats.

Under the hood Cube hidden atmospheric engine HR16DE (1.6 l, 109–111 hp) or turbocharged MR16DDT (1.6 l, 190 hp in version Nismo RS). Gearboxes - CVT Jatco CVT7 or 6-speed manual. The drive was exclusively front-wheel drive, which made the car easy to maintain, but limited its off-road capabilities. The main advantages of the model: maneuverability in the city, efficiency (consumption 6–8 l/100 km) and incredible uniqueness on the road.

Today Nissan Cube Z12 - a rarity on the secondary market, especially in Russia. It is bought either by Japanophilia fans or by those looking for an inexpensive but stylish car for city driving. However, before purchasing, you should take into account the nuances: poor sound insulation, specific suspension and problems with the CVT over 150 thousand km. Next, we’ll look at all the details - from technical specifications to tuning tips.

Specifications Nissan Cube Z12 (2008–2019)

Basic equipment Cube equipped with a 1.6-liter engine HR16DE with a timing chain drive, which is known for its reliability with timely maintenance. More powerful version Nismo RS (Japan only) received a turbo engine MR16DDT with direct injection, developing 190 hp. - a rarity for such a compact car. Transmission - CVT Jatco CVT7 or 6-speed manual transmission (only for the basic version).

Suspension Cube Z12 built on a platform Nissan B, common with Juke And Note. Front - racks MacPherson, at the rear there is a semi-independent beam. Electric power steering (EPS) makes parking easy, but requires steering at high speeds. Disc brake system on all wheels (front ventilated).

Parameter	1.6 (HR16DE)	1.6 Turbo (MR16DDT, Nismo RS)
Power, hp	109–111	190
Torque, Nm	153	240
Acceleration 0–100 km/h, s	11.5	7.6
Max. speed, km/h	175	210
Fuel consumption (combined), l/100 km	6.5–7.2	7.8–8.5

Dimensions Cube Z12 make up 3980×1695×1760 mm (length×width×height), wheelbase - 2530 mm. Clearance - 150 mm, which is enough for urban conditions, but not enough for off-road conditions. Trunk volume - 117 liters in standard seat position and up to 420 liters with rear seats folded (thanks to the system Flexible Seating System).

Pros and cons Nissan Cube Z12: honest analysis

Main advantage Cube - him unique design, which cannot be confused with anything else. But in addition to appearance, the model also has practical advantages:

• 🚗 Spacious salon Despite its compact dimensions, the high ceiling and large windows create a “glass bubble” effect.
• 💰 Low cost of ownership: cheap maintenance, available spare parts (many components are unified with Nissan Note And Juke).
• 🛣️ Maneuverability - total turning radius 4.8 m, ideal for parking in tight yards.
• 🔧 Simple design: no complex electronics (except for versions with Around View Monitor), maintainability is high.

However, there are also significant disadvantages that sellers are silent about:

• 🔊 Poor sound insulation — at speeds above 90 km/h, wind noise and the operation of the variator can be heard in the cabin.
• 🛑 Problems with the Jatco CVT7 variator after 150–180 thousand km: jerking, overheating, belt wear.
• 💨 Low base engine power - 109 hp Not enough for overtaking on the highway.
• 🚘 Stiff suspension on uneven surfaces, especially in versions with 17-inch wheels.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Cube Z12 With mileage, be sure to check the oil change history of the variator. If it wasn't changed every 60 thousand km, get ready for expensive repairs (from 150 thousand rubles).

Typical problems and malfunctions: what to look for

Despite the simple design, Nissan Cube Z12 has several “diseases” characteristic of Japanese cars of this period. The main problems are related to the CVT, electronics and suspension.

1. CVT Jatco CVT7

The most vulnerable node is variator, which is afraid of overheating and low-quality oil. Symptoms of malfunction:

• 🔴 Jerks when accelerating or braking.
• 🔴 Delays when switching “virtual” gears.
• 🔴 Extraneous noises (grinding, hum) when cold.

Solution: change the oil every 60 thousand km (original NS-2 or NS-3), checking the solenoids and belt. In case of critical breakdowns, the variator assembly must be replaced (from 200 thousand rubles).

2. Engine HR16DE

The atmospheric engine is reliable, but has weaknesses:

• 🔥 Oil leak through the valve cover and oil seals (after 100 thousand km).
• 🔥 Throttle valve contamination — requires cleaning every 50 thousand km.
• 🔥 Timing chain stretch after 200 thousand km (signs: metallic knocking when cold).

3. Suspension and steering

Racks MacPherson and the rear beam serve for a long time, but wear out:

• 🔄 Wheel bearings — crunching when turning (replace every 100–120 thousand km).
• 🔄 Stabilizer bushings — squeaks on uneven surfaces.
• 🔄 Electric power steering (EPS) - sometimes “snacks” in the cold.

⚠️ Attention: In versions with Around View Monitor (all-round cameras) camera control units often fail. Repairs cost 30–50 thousand rubles.

Mileage and oil change history in the variator|Condition of the timing chain (listen when cold)|Operation of the electric power steering (is there any snagging)|Soundproofing of doors and arches (are there any holes)|Condition of the suspension (knocking, play)-->

How to choose Nissan Cube Z12 on the secondary market: expert advice

On the Russian market Cube Z12 It is rare - these are mostly specimens imported from Japan or the USA. Average price for 2026:

• 💴 600–900 thousand rubles — versions 2008–2012 with a mileage of 100–150 thousand km.
• 💴 1–1.3 million rubles — cars 2013–2019 with mileage up to 80 thousand km.
• 💴 1.5–2 million rubles — Nismo RS or copies in perfect condition.

What to look for during inspection:

1. Mileage and history. Optimally - up to 100 thousand km with a full maintenance history. If the mileage is more than 150 thousand km, the CVT most likely requires attention.
2. Body condition. Cube Doesn't rust much, but check the arches and sills for chips (thin metal!).
3. Engine. Listen when it is cold - there should be no knocking (timing chain) or vibrations (support).
4. Electronics. Check the operation of all sensors, cameras (if any) and climate control.

The best configurations to buy:

• 🔹 1.6 S (base) — simple and reliable, but without frills.
• 🔹 1.6 SL — climate control, leather steering wheel, better sound insulation.
• 🔹 Nismo RS - for those who like speed, but are expensive to maintain.

💡

When test driving, be sure to drive on a rough road - this way you will hear the suspension knocks and check the operation of the shock absorbers. Also check if the steering wheel “floats” when braking (a sign of wear on the brake discs).

Tuning and modifications: how to do it Cube more unique

Nissan Cube Z12 - an ideal platform for tuning thanks to its unusual design and simple construction. Owners are divided into two camps: those who maintain the stock appearance, and those who turn the car into an art object.

1. External tuning

Popular destinations:

• 🎨 Vintage style — matte paint, retro headlight covers, chrome elements.
• 🎨 JDM style — low-profile tires, spoilers, extended arches.
• 🎨 Light customization — LED interior lighting, angel eyes in the headlights.

2. Technical tuning

For atmospheric HR16DE available:

• 🔧 Chip tuning — ECU firmware to increase power to 120–130 hp.
• 🔧 Exhaust system — forward flow or “spider” 4-2-1 for better sound.
• 🔧 Suspension - springs Tanabe or Tein to lower (but not lower than 30 mm - otherwise the ground clearance will suffer).

3. Interior

Inside Cube You can implement any ideas:

• 🪑 Seat reupholstery - leather or fabric with non-standard patterns.
• 🪑 Backlight — RGB strips under the dashboard or in the door panels.
• 🪑 Multimedia - replacing the standard radio with Android Auto with a big screen.

⚠️ Attention: When the suspension is lowered by more than 40 mm, the geometry of the steering rods is disrupted, which leads to uneven tire wear. The optimal lowering is 20–30 mm.

Where to order spare parts for tuning?

The most popular sites for purchasing tuning parts for Nissan Cube Z12:

- JDM Buy Sell (Facebook groups) - for original JDM parts.

- Yahoo! Japan Auctions — auctions with direct deliveries from Japan.

- AliExpress — inexpensive universal accessories (lights, stickers).

- Local tuning studios — for individual projects (for example, interior reupholstery).

Operation and Maintenance: How to Extend Life Cube Z12

The Secret of Longevity Nissan Cube — regular maintenance and attention to the variator. Here are the key points:

1. Changing oils and fluids

• 🛢️ Engine - oil 5W-30 or 0W-20 (synthetics), replace every 10 thousand km.
• 🛢️ CVT - oil Nissan CVT Fluid NS-2/NS-3, replacement every 60 thousand km.
• 🛢️ Brake fluid - replacement every 2 years.

2. Routine work

Knot	Frequency	Cost (with work), ₽
Spark plugs	Every 30 thousand km	3 000–5 000
Air filter	Every 15 thousand km	1 500–2 500
Brake pads (front)	Every 40–50 thousand km	8 000–12 000
Timing Belt (for MR16DDT)	Every 100 thousand km	20 000–25 000

3. Winter operation

During the cold season Cube Z12 behaves predictably, but there are nuances:

• ❄️ Battery - a weak point, especially in versions with a CVT. Recommended 60–65 Ah.
• ❄️ Tires - optimal 195/55 R16 or 205/50 R17 (velcro or spikes).
• ❄️ Heating — the basic versions do not have heated seats, but it can be retrofitted.

💡

The most important thing in service Nissan Cube Z12 — monitor the variator. If you ignore changing the oil, repairs will cost 3-4 times more than prevention.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about Nissan Cube Z12

🔹 Is it possible to install all-wheel drive on Cube Z12?

No, Nissan Cube the second generation was produced only with front-wheel drive. Installing all-wheel drive will require a deep modification of the platform, which is not economically feasible. Alternative - consider Nissan Juke with the system ALL-MODE 4x4-i.

🔹 What is the fuel consumption Cube Z12 in the city?

In the urban cycle HR16DE with CVT consumes 8–9 l/100 km, on the highway - 5.5–6.5 l/100 km. Turbocharged MR16DDT consumes 1–1.5 liters more. Consumption depends on driving style: the CVT does not like sudden acceleration.

🔹 Which tires are suitable for Cube Z12?

Factory sizes:

• 185/60 R15 (basic equipment),
• 195/55 R16 (the most balanced option),
• 205/50 R17 (for versions with 17-inch wheels).

For winter, narrow tires are recommended (e.g. 185/60 R15) for better grip.

🔹 How much does insurance cost (MTPL/CASCO) for Cube Z12?

The cost of compulsory motor liability insurance in 2026 is from 5,000 to 8,000 ₽ (depending on the region and driver experience). CASCO costs 50–80 thousand ₽ per year due to a shortage of spare parts and the high cost of body work (non-standard panel shapes).

🔹 Is it possible to translate Cube Z12 for gas?

Technically yes, but there are some nuances:

• 🔘 Engine HR16DE adapted for 4th generation HBO.
• 🔘 Turbocharged MR16DDT It is not recommended to switch to gas due to the risk of overheating.
• 🔘 Installation cost — 40–60 thousand ₽, payback - from 2 years.