Nissan Cube or Toyota bB: which Japanese hatchback is better to choose?

Choice between Nissan Cube And Toyota bB is not just buying a car, but choosing a philosophy. Both hatchbacks represent a unique approach to compactness, but are fundamentally different in character, design and target audience. Cube with its avant-garde shapes and unconventional interior concept, it is designed for those who want to stand out, while bB (or Scion xB in some markets) offers a more pragmatic, but no less stylish option with an emphasis on functionality.

These cars, released in the 2000s, have become a cult favorite among Japanese car enthusiasts. But which one is better for urban use? Where is the reliability higher? And what is more important - an original design or a time-tested platform? In this comparison we will look at key differences that are not mentioned in standard reviews, including repair nuances, availability of spare parts and real reviews from owners.

1. Design: avant-garde vs retro-futurism

At first sight Nissan Cube amazes with its originality. Its asymmetrical lines, huge round headlights and bubble body shape make the car recognizable even among hundreds of other cars. Design third generation (Z12, 2008–2014) is a mixture of Japanese pop culture and European minimalism. Interestingly, the rear door opens against the direction of travel (as in Mazda RX-8), which adds convenience when parking in tight yards.

In turn, Toyota bB (second generation, NCP60, 2005–2016) looks more restrained, but no less stylish. Its rectangular shape with rounded corners and high body resemble a minivan in a hatchback format. Toyota designers relied on retro-futurism - a combination of classic proportions with modern details such as LED taillights and chrome inserts. It's important to note that bB was also produced under the brand Scion xB for the American market, where it received an even more aggressive body kit.

• 🎨 Nissan Cube: asymmetrical headlights, bubble body, tailgate with non-standard opening
• 📦 Toyota bB: rectangular shapes, high ceiling, option Scion xB with sports body kit
• 🔄 General: both cars have high ground clearance (about 160 mm), which is rare for hatchbacks

2. Interior: space vs ergonomics

Inside Cube You will be met with unusual solutions: asymmetrical instrument panel, round ventilation deflectors and a two-tier shelf on the dashboard that resembles a tray. The seats are positioned high for excellent visibility, and the back row can be converted by folding the backrests in a 60:40 ratio. However The main disadvantage is the narrow interior width, which will make the three passengers in the back seat feel cramped.

Toyota bB offers a more traditional but spacious interior. There are no revolutionary design solutions here, but there are flat floor, wide doors and a huge trunk (up to 250 liters as standard, up to 1300 liters with seats folded). The finishing materials are simple but practical - the plastic is hard, but not creaky. An important plus: bB you can transport large loads, for example, a bicycle or furniture, whereas in Cube this will be problematic.

• 🪑 Nissan Cube: high seats, asymmetrical panel, narrow rear row
• 📦 Toyota bB: flat floor, wide doors, trunk up to 1300 liters
• 🔧 General: both cars have a steering wheel with a small diameter, which is convenient for maneuvers in the city

⚠️ Attention: B Nissan Cube first year of production (2008) there is often a problem with door wiring — the wires fray due to the poor design of the seals. Before purchasing, check the operation of the windows and central locking.

3. Technical characteristics: reliability vs dynamics

Both cars were equipped with naturally aspirated petrol engines, but with different approaches to tuning. Nissan Cube in the basic version I received 1.8 liter MR18DE (122 hp), which was combined with a CVT Jatco CVT7. This motor is known for its reliability, but variator requires regular maintenance - oil change every 60,000 km, otherwise the risk of breakdown increases sharply.

Toyota bB offered two options: 1.3 liter 2NZ-FE (86 hp) and 1.5 liter 1NZ-FE (109 hp). Both units work with a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual. Toyota engines are famous for their “indestructibility”, but 1NZ-FE has a weak point - oil pump, which can fail if the oil is not changed in a timely manner. But the automatic transmission bB easier and cheaper to repair than a CVT Cube.

Parameter	Nissan Cube (1.8 MR18DE)	Toyota bB (1.5 1NZ-FE)
Power, hp	122	109
Gearbox	CVT7 variator	4AT/5MT
Fuel consumption (city), l/100 km	8.5–9.5	7.5–8.0
Engine life, km	250,000+ (with service)	300,000+ (with service)
Weaknesses	CVT, door wiring	Oil pump (1NZ-FE)

4. Handling and comfort: city vs highway

Nissan Cube was created as an exclusively city car. His short wheelbase (2530 mm) and electric power steering make the car incredibly maneuverable in traffic jams. However, at high speeds (over 100 km/h), the body begins to “sail” due to the high center of gravity and soft suspension. It is also worth noting that Cube Doesn't handle rough roads well - even small potholes radiate into the cabin.

Toyota bB, despite similar dimensions, behaves more predictably on the road. The suspension is stiffer, which improves handling on the highway, but makes the ride less comfortable on broken asphalt. But steering more informative, and the brakes (disc on all wheels in top versions) are more effective. If you have to travel out of town often, bB it will be more reliable.

• 🚗 Nissan Cube: ideal for the city, but unstable at speed
• 🛣️ Toyota bB: better on the highway, but harsher in the city
• ⚙️ General: both cars have front-wheel drive and independent MacPherson-type front suspension

5. Price and cost of ownership: which is cheaper to operate?

On the secondary market (2026), prices for both cars start approximately the same - from 400,000 to 700,000 rubles for copies in good condition. However Toyota bB usually 10–15% more expensive, as it is more popular due to the brand’s reputation. But there is a nuance here: Cube often sold with richer equipment (leather interior, climate control), while bB the basic version may not even have air conditioning.

By cost of ownership is in the lead Toyota:

• Spare parts for 1NZ-FE cheaper than MR18DE (for example, a timing belt costs ~3,000 rubles versus ~4,500 rubles).
• Automatic transmission repair bB costs 2–3 times less than replacing a variator in Cube.
• Insurance (MTPL/CASCO) for Toyota usually cheaper due to lower theft statistics.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Nissan Cube with mileage over 150,000 km, be prepared for replacement variator step pulley (cost of part + labor ~50,000 rub.). This problem is typical for CVTs Jatco that period.

6. Owner reviews: real operating experience

Analysis of reviews on forums (for example, drive2.ru or bobr.by) shows that the owners Nissan Cube more often praised:

• 🎯 Unique design (“invisible machine” in traffic).
• 🅿️ Easy parking (short body + large windows).
• 🎶 Good noise insulation (for a class).

The most frequently mentioned disadvantages are expensive variator repair And cramped back row.

Owners Toyota bB highlight:

• 🔧 Reliability (“it goes and goes, just change the oil”).
• 📦 Practicality (“everything will fit in, even a refrigerator”).
• 💰 Low cost of spare parts.

Main complaints - noisy salon at speed and rigid suspension.

Which configurations are considered the most reliable?

For Nissan Cube optimal choice - version 1.8 S with CVT, released after 2010 (wiring problems fixed). For Toyota bB the best option is 1.5 G with automatic transmission and full power accessories (2008–2012).

7. Bottom line: which car to choose?

Choice between Nissan Cube And Toyota bB depends on your priorities:

• 🎨 If style and individuality are important to you - take it Cube. This is a car for those who are not afraid to attract attention and are willing to put up with the high cost of maintenance.
• 🔧 If reliability and practicality come first — Toyota bB will be the best choice. It is easier to repair, cheaper to operate and more spacious.

Both cars are great for the city, but Cube looks more like an "adult toy", whereas bB - This is a workhorse. If you only plan to drive on asphalt and want a car that stands out, Nissan. If you need a universal machine for a family or small business (for example, delivery), - Toyota.

Mileage (optimally up to 150,000 km)

Service history (especially oil change in the variator/automatic transmission)

Suspension condition (knocking, play)

Operation of electronics (window lifters, climate control)

Body for corrosion (especially arches and sills) -->

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

Is it possible to install gas equipment on a Nissan Cube or Toyota bB?

Yes, but with reservations. On Toyota bB with motor 1NZ-FE HBO is installed without problems, since the engine has a cast iron block and a long service life. B Nissan Cube with MR18DE difficulties are possible due to the variator - It is recommended to install 4th generation HBO with firmware adjustments to avoid CVT overheating. The average cost of installation is 40,000–60,000 rubles.

Which car is easier to sell on the secondary market?

Toyota bB sells faster and more expensive - demand for it is consistently high due to the brand’s reputation. Nissan Cube is a niche car, and its buyers are usually looking for a specific package (for example, with a leather interior or a sunroof). On average, the difference in resale price can reach 15–20% in favor of Toyota.

What alternatives should you consider?

If you like custom hatchbacks, check out:

• Honda Element - even more spacious and practical, but with high fuel consumption.
• Kia Soul (first generation) - a similar concept, but with a more modern filling.
• Suzuki Wagon R+ — more compact, but with all-wheel drive (optional).

Can these machines be used in winter?

Both cars are adapted to winter conditions, but there are some nuances:

• Nissan Cube has a higher ground clearance (160 mm), but the variator does not tolerate long-term slippage. It is recommended to use winter tires and avoid sudden starts.
• Toyota bB behaves better in the snow thanks to a more predictable automatic transmission, but its suspension transmits roughness on an icy road more harshly.

In both cases, it is advisable to insulate the radiator and use high-quality winter oil (for example, 0W-20 for Toyota).