A car that cannot be confused with anyone else - Nissan Cube The second generation, released in 2008, became a real phenomenon in the compact hatchback market. Its asymmetrical design, reminiscent of a box with rounded corners, divided car enthusiasts into two camps: those who fell in love with the originality at first sight, and those who considered it too eccentric.
Model Nissan Cube 2008 was produced primarily for the Japanese market, but thanks to its popularity in the USA and Europe, today it attracts the attention of collectors and lovers of unusual cars around the world. Unlike its predecessor, which was more strict and “square,” the new generation relied on soft forms and maximum functionality of the interior space.
Owners often note that this car is not just a means of transportation, but a statement object that expresses individuality. When choosing a used copy, it is important to understand that behind the external simplicity lies complex engineering thought aimed at creating maximum comfort for passengers with minimal external dimensions.
Design and external aesthetics of the second generation
The main feature of the car is its unique asymmetry. If you look closely, the rear right glass is noticeably higher and wider than the left, which creates the effect of an “asymmetrical box”. This is not just a design whim, but a thoughtful solution to improve visibility and interior lighting.
The front part of the body is made in the “Face” style, reminiscent of a face with large “eyes” - a headlight and a wide radiator grille. The body lines are smooth, devoid of sharp corners, which gives the car a friendly and even slightly cartoonish look. Exactly like this emotional appeal became the model's calling card in 2008.
The wheel arches protrude strongly, creating a feeling of power despite their compactness. The color palette of those years included both classic shades and bright, “acid” colors, such as yellow or turquoise, which perfectly emphasized the character youth car.
It is worth noting the build quality of the panels and the durability of the paintwork, which, with proper care, still retains its excellent appearance. However, due to the complex geometry of the body, repairs after an accident can be expensive and time-consuming.
- The asymmetrical rear window is the main distinguishing feature of the model.
- High waist provides excellent road review.
- Creative body paint options to express individuality.
⚠️ Attention: When purchasing, pay special attention to the condition of the rear arches and sills, as the complex shape of the body makes them difficult to paint, and poor-quality repairs can be immediately noticeable.
Interior and functionality of the cabin
Inside Nissan Cube 2008 has an atmosphere of comfort comparable to the interior of a living room. Thanks to the high roof and vertical walls of the cabin, the space feels much larger than the actual dimensions of the car. Legroom passengers in the back row is one of the main advantages of this model.
The seats are "sofa" style with a high backrest, which provides excellent lateral support. Upholstery materials were often bright and textured, sometimes with inserts of unusual materials. The center console is angled toward the driver, creating an ergonomic work area.
A unique feature is the folding seat system. The rear row can be transformed into a flat floor, turning the car into cargo van for transporting large items. Even with the seats folded, the ceiling remains high, allowing you to transport objects up to 1.5 meters high.
The controls are located intuitively. The multimedia system, available on top trims, included navigation and high-quality sound, which was a rarity in the segment in 2008. However, it is worth considering that there are no modern standards for connecting smartphones here.
- Spacious interior with the ability to transform into a cargo compartment.
- High seating position and panoramic glazing.
- Comfortable sofa seats with high-quality ergonomics.
- Spacious salon
- Unique design
- Economical
- Reliability
Technical characteristics and engines
Under the hood Nissan Cube 2008 petrol engines of the HR series were usually installed. The most common was the 1.6-liter engine, which developed about 110-114 horsepower. This unit was distinguished by good traction at the bottom, which is important for city driving, and high reliability with timely maintenance.
Depending on the market, different transmission options were offered. The classic automatic transmission (CVT) provided a smooth ride and fuel efficiency. There was also a manual transmission, which allowed the driver to feel more control over the car.
The suspension is tuned with an emphasis on comfort, effectively absorbing uneven road surfaces. Electric power steering makes maneuvering in heavy city traffic easy and predictable. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 10-11 seconds, which is enough for everyday tasks.
Fuel consumption in the combined cycle is approximately 7-8 liters per 100 km, which is an excellent indicator for a car of this size. The fuel injection system and electronic engine control operate stably, ensuring easy starting even in cold weather.
| Characteristics | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6 l (HR16DE) |
| Power | 114 hp |
| Gearbox | CVT / Mechanics 5-speed |
| Drive | Front |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
⚠️ Attention: When operating a car with a variator (CVT), you must strictly monitor the level and condition of the transmission fluid, as overheating can lead to expensive repairs.
Features of the HR16DE engine
The HR16DE engine is one of the most reliable in the Nissan line. It is equipped with a timing chain drive that is designed to last a lifetime, but requires checking the tensioner at high mileage. The i-DEG (intelligent throttle) system provides precise fuel control.
Operation and reliability of components
Owners Nissan Cube The car is often praised for the absence of critical “childhood diseases” characteristic of many competitors of that time. The main problem that you may encounter is wear of the suspension elements. Stabilizer struts and control arm silent blocks require replacement every 60-80 thousand kilometers.
The air conditioning system works efficiently, but compressors may require attention after 100 thousand km. The car's electrical system is generally reliable, but it is worth checking the contacts at the wiring connections, as vibrations can weaken the fastenings over time. Corrosion for this model it is not a critical problem if the car has not been used in an aggressive environment.
Consumables such as filters and brake pads are inexpensive and available at most auto stores. The braking system is equipped with discs on all wheels, which ensures good braking even when fully loaded.
It is important to note that due to the specificity of the design, some body parts (for example, bumpers or fenders) may be difficult to find at a salvage yard, especially if the color of the car is rare. This is worth considering when planning your maintenance budget.
- Check the condition of the silent blocks of the levers every 60,000 km.
- Monitor the oil level in the variator and change it regularly.
- Inspect electrical connectors for oxidation.
Before purchasing, be sure to check the operation of all power windows and door locks, as door wiring can be difficult to repair due to their design.
Weaknesses and maintenance recommendations
Despite the overall reliability, Nissan Cube 2008 has a number of vulnerabilities. The most critical element is the variator (if installed). Early versions of the CVT could suffer from overheating and premature belt wear. Regularly changing the oil in the variator every 40-50 thousand kilometers is a prerequisite for a long transmission life.
It is also worth paying attention to the engine cooling system. Thermostats and pipes can harden and crack over time, leading to antifreeze leaks. The cooling radiator has narrow cells and quickly becomes clogged with lint and dirt, so it should be cleaned annually.
Creaks of plastic panels may appear in the cabin due to the fastening features. This does not affect safety, but may irritate the driver. It is recommended to use special seals or lubricants to eliminate extraneous noise.
When servicing, it is important to use only original spare parts or high-quality analogues, since low-quality parts may not fit the geometry due to the non-standard shape of the body. For example, shock absorbers must have a specific length and stiffness.
☑️ Checklist before the trip
⚠️ Attention: Do not ignore extraneous noise from the variator. A whistling or humming sound may indicate that the belt is about to break, causing complete transmission failure.
Regular maintenance of the CVT and cooling system is the key to long service life for the 2008 Nissan Cube.
Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Cube 2008
Which engine is more reliable: manual or variator?
In terms of durability and ease of repair, the manual transmission wins. The CVT requires more careful maintenance and is sensitive to overheating, although it provides a more comfortable ride in the city.
Is it difficult to find spare parts for Nissan Cube?
Basic consumables (filters, pads, oils) are available everywhere. Body parts and specific optics will have to be ordered, since the model is not massively popular in Europe and the CIS.
Is the car suitable for transporting children?
Yes, there is enough space in the cabin to install child seats. However, due to the high floor and lack of a central tunnel, installing seats in the rear sofa may require careful adjustment of the seat belts.
What is the real fuel consumption?
In the urban cycle, real consumption is 8-9 liters per 100 km, on the highway - about 6 liters. It depends on your driving style and engine condition.
Can Cube be used in winter?
The car is well adapted to winter thanks to front-wheel drive and good ergonomics. However, the ground clearance is low, so deep snowdrifts can be a problem. It is recommended to use winter tires.