If you are looking for a compact and stylish city car with an unusual design, Nissan Cube definitely on your list. However, many buyers are confused by the question: what is the name of the left-hand drive version of this model? In Japan all cars are produced with right-hand drive, but for export to the USA and Europe Nissan adapted Cube under left-hand traffic. Let's figure out what this modification is officially called, how it differs from the Japanese original, and what to look for when purchasing.
It’s worth clarifying right away: Nissan Cube with left-hand drive is not a separate model, but an adapted version for foreign markets. Depending on the year of manufacture and region, it may have different names, technical features and even external differences. For example, in the USA the car was sold under the same name Cube, but with modified bumpers and headlights, and it was not officially delivered to Europe. Next, we will analyze in detail all the nuances, including unique VIN identifiers for left-hand drive versionsthat will help you avoid mistakes when purchasing.
Official name: Nissan Cube left-hand drive
Concern Nissan never changed the model name when adapting for left-hand drive markets. In both Japan and the USA the car is called the same - Nissan Cube. However, there are key differences in indexes and generations:
- 📌 Z10 (1998–2002) - first generation, left-hand drive version was sold only in the USA under the name Cube (without prefixes).
- 📌 Z11 (2002–2008) - second generation, also called for the USA Cube, but with other options (for example, there was no gasoline engine
HR15DE). - 📌 Z12 (2008–2014) - third generation, officially supplied to the USA as Nissan Cube 1.8 (with engine
MR18DE).
Important: in Europe Cube left-hand drive never officially sold. All examples that can be found in Russia or the CIS countries are either gray imported cars from the USA or converted Japanese versions (which is illegal!). Read more about legalization in the purchasing section.
- Japanese version with right hand drive
- American version with left hand drive
- European remake
- I haven't decided yet
Differences between the left-hand drive version and the Japanese one
Despite the same name, Nissan Cube for the USA and Japan they have a number of design and technical differences. Here are the main ones:
| Characteristics | Japanese version (right hand drive) | American version (left hand drive) |
|---|---|---|
| Engines | HR12DE (1.2 l), HR15DE (1.5 l), KR15DE (hybrid) |
Only MR18DE (1.8 l, 122 hp) |
| Gearbox | Mechanics, variator Jatco CVT7 |
CVT only Jatco CVT8 (without mechanics) |
| Suspension | Soft tuning for city roads | 15–20% stiffer for American standards |
| Security | 2 airbags (standard) | 6 airbags, ESP, tire pressure monitoring system |
| Exterior | Narrow bumpers, round headlights | Extended bumpers, rectangular headlights (for DOT standards) |
In addition, the American version was equipped system Nissan Intelligent Key (keyless entry) and climate control as standard, whereas in Japanese cars this was an option. Also in the USA Cube was sold in only one configuration - 1.8 S or 1.8 SL, while in Japan there was a wider choice (including a hybrid version Cube Hybrid).
⚠️ Attention: If you are offered Nissan Cube with left-hand drive and engineHR15DE— this is a 100% remake! American versions were equipped only with a motorMR18DE.
How to identify a left-hand drive Cube by VIN code
To avoid buying a converted car, check VIN code car. For official left-hand drive versions (for the USA), it starts with:
- 🔍 JN8AZ - for models 2009–2014 (third generation, Z12).
- 🔍 JN8AZ18R - specific code for Cube 1.8 with variator.
Japanese versions have different prefixes:
- 🔍 Z10 - first generation, VIN starts with
JN8AZ10. - 🔍 Z11 - second generation, VIN starts with
JN8AZ11.
You can check the VIN through official services:
- 🌐 NHTSA Database (USA) - for American cars.
- 🌐 Nissan official website - for Japanese models.
If the seller refuses to provide the VIN or a photo of the plate with the code (usually under the hood or on the door pillar), this is a reason to be wary. Perhaps the car has been modified or stolen.
Is it possible to legalize a left-hand drive Nissan Cube in Russia?
According to the current legislation of the Russian Federation, Import and registration of left-hand drive cars under 5 years of age is prohibited, if they are not certified for the Russian market. Nissan Cube has never been officially supplied to Russia, so it can only be legalized through the procedure vehicle type approval (VTA).
To do this you will need:
- Get technical examination protocol in an accredited laboratory.
- Pass customs clearance (if the car is imported from abroad).
- Pay recycling fee (about 20,000–40,000 rubles depending on engine size).
- Submit documents to the traffic police for registration.
⚠️ Attention: If the car was converted from right-hand drive to left-hand drive, it impossible to legalize - this is considered a design change that is not allowed for foreign cars.
The cost of legalization can reach 150,000–300,000 rubles, so before purchasing it is worth assessing the feasibility. It is often cheaper to buy the Japanese right-hand drive version and adapt to the handling.
☑️ Documents for legalization of Nissan Cube in Russia
Where to buy a left-hand drive Nissan Cube: pros and cons of options
If you still decide to purchase Cube with left-hand drive, you have three main options. Let's look at each one taking into account the risks and benefits.
1. Purchase in the USA with subsequent import
Pros:
- ✅ Official left-hand drive version with full documentation.
- ✅ Possibility to choose a car in good condition (in the USA Cube not so popular, so mileages are often low).
Cons:
- ❌ High cost of logistics (delivery by container will cost 150,000–250,000 rubles).
- ❌ The risk of hidden problems (for example, getting into a flood, which is not uncommon in Texas or Florida).
2. Purchase in Europe (gray import)
Pros:
- ✅ Already in the EU, easier with logistics.
- ✅ Possibility to inspect the car before purchasing.
Cons:
- ❌ High price (European sellers know about demand from Russia).
- ❌ The risk of buying a converted car (in Europe there are also “re-routed” Japanese versions).
3. Purchase in Russia (from hands or from dealers)
Pros:
- ✅ Can be inspected and tested before purchasing.
- ✅ There is no need to deal with customs clearance.
Cons:
- ❌ Prices are often inflated due to the rarity of the model.
- ❌ High risk of running into alterations or a car with a criminal past.
The most reliable option is to purchase the American version through an auction (for example, Copart or IAAI) with a trusted intermediary. But be prepared for a long process of customs clearance and legalization.
Frequent problems with Nissan Cube with left-hand drive
Like any car, Cube has typical “diseases” that should be taken into account when purchasing. The American versions are slightly different from the Japanese ones:
- 🔧 CVT
Jatco CVT8— requires an oil change every 60,000 km (many owners in the USA do not do this). Signs of wear: jerking during acceleration, humming noise. - 🔧 Suspension — struts and bushings wear out faster due to the rigid tuning for American roads.
- 🔧 Electronics — frequent problems with parking sensors and a rear view camera (in the USA they were installed optionally, but often of poor quality).
- 🔧 Corrosion — American versions are less susceptible to rust than Japanese ones, but it is still necessary to check the bottom and arches.
It is also worth paying attention to air conditioning system. In the USA Cube equipped with climate control, but compressors often fail due to irregular maintenance. Before purchasing please check:
- 🔹 System pressure (should be between 25-45 psi on the low side).
- 🔹 Condition of the air conditioner radiator (often clogged with dirt).
- 🔹 Fan operation (in American versions it is more powerful, but noisier).
How to check a variator before buying?
1. Start the car and let the CVT warm up for 5-10 minutes.
2. Accelerate smoothly to 60 km/h - there should be no jerks or delays.
3. Check the oil in the variator: it should be light, without a burnt smell.
4. During a test drive, listen to extraneous noise at a speed of 40–50 km/h (a characteristic hum indicates wear of the bearings).
Alternatives to left-hand drive Nissan Cube
If you are interested in a compact city car with a custom design, but legalization Cube seems too complicated, consider alternatives:
| Model | Engine | Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scion xB (Toyota) | 2.4 l, 158 hp | Spacious interior, Toyota reliability | High fuel consumption (10–12 l/100 km) |
| Kia Soul | 1.6–2.0 l, 123–164 hp | 7 year warranty, good equipment | Less original design |
| Honda Element | 2.4 l, 160 hp | All-wheel drive, practical interior | High center of gravity, prone to rollover |
| Mini Cooper | 1.5–2.0 l, 136–231 hp | Sporty handling, premium interior | Expensive service, small trunk |
If it is important to you Japanese reliability, pay attention to Nissan Juke (first generation) or Nissan Note — they were officially sold in Russia with left-hand drive and have similar dimensions.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about left-hand drive Nissan Cube
Is it possible to convert a Japanese Cube into left-hand drive legally?
No, according to the legislation of the Russian Federation, change of steering wheel position is considered an unacceptable design change. Such cars will not pass inspection and will not be registered with the traffic police.
How much does it cost to legalize an American Cube in Russia?
Total cost may vary from 150,000 to 300,000 rubles, including:
- Customs duties (about 50,000–100,000 rubles).
- Disposal fee (20,000–40,000 rubles).
- Technical expertise (30,000–50,000 rubles).
- Fee for OTTS (up to 100,000 rubles).
What engines were installed on the American versions?
In the USA Nissan Cube equipped with only one engine - MR18DE with a volume of 1.8 liters and a power of 122 hp. This engine is paired with a variator Jatco CVT8 and complies with the standard ULEV-2 (ultra-low emissions).
Where can I find spare parts for the American Cube?
Spare parts for Nissan Cube (USA) can be ordered:
- 🌐 On RockAuto - large selection of original and non-original parts.
- 🌐 B eBay — used units from disassembly units are often sold.
- 🌐 From official dealers Nissan in the USA (can be ordered through intermediaries).
Shipping costs can be high, so it's worth assessing the availability of parts in your area before purchasing a machine.
What is the fuel consumption of the American Cube 1.8?
According to the EPA (US Environmental Protection Agency), Nissan Cube 1.8 with a variator has the following consumption:
- 🏙City: 9.8 l/100 km.
- 🛣 Route: 7.1 l/100 km.
- 🔄 Mixed cycle: 8.4 l/100 km.
Actual consumption may vary upward (up to 10–11 l/100 km in the city), especially if the variator has not been serviced.