Buying a used Nissan Cube
If you want a car that stands out from the crowd, the Nissan Cube is likely already on your radar. With its unmistakable boxy shape and charmingly asymmetrical rear window, it is a vehicle that proudly refuses to blend in. For those of us tired of the same old identical hatchbacks, it offers a breath of fresh air.
Finding a Used Nissan Cube can feel a bit like a treasure hunt. Because they have such a loyal cult following, owners tend to hold onto them. But when you do find the right one, you are rewarded with an incredibly practical, spacious, and joyous little car that makes every supermarket run feel a bit more fun.
Whether you are looking for a completely standard model or hoping to find a Nissan Cube modified by an enthusiast, this guide will help you understand what makes this quirky vehicle so special. Let us explore exactly what you need to know before bringing one home to your driveway.
Why buy a used Nissan Cube?
The main appeal of the Cube is its incredible use of space. Despite taking up very little room on the road, the interior feels wonderfully vast. The tall roofline and upright seating mean you have plenty of headroom, making it a fantastic option for taller drivers or growing families.
Affordability is another massive bonus. When looking for a Nissan Cube for sale, you will often find they offer brilliant value for money compared to more conventional small cars. They are generally cheap to run, easy to insure, and incredibly practical for city living.
Plus, it is just a genuinely fun car. The lounge-style interior is designed to be relaxing, complete with comfortable, sofa-like seats. It is a car that doesn't take itself too seriously, and that cheeky personality is highly infectious.
Nissan Cube overview
First introduced in Japan back in 1998, the Cube was originally based on the Nissan Micra platform. It took the reliable, efficient mechanicals of a sensible supermini and wrapped them in a highly practical, square body.
It wasn't until the third generation, launched around 2009, that Nissan officially brought the Cube to the UK market. This version retained the iconic asymmetrical design—where the rear window wraps around the passenger side but not the driver's side—giving you fantastic visibility when parking.
Under the bonnet, UK models generally feature a reliable 1.6-litre petrol engine. It provides enough punch for motorway cruising while remaining perfectly suited for nipping around town. You can find them with either a five-speed manual transmission or a smooth CVT automatic gearbox.
Generations and trims breakdown
While the first two generations were Japan-only models (though you might spot some imported ones), the third generation is the one officially sold in the UK.
Third Generation (Z12)
The Z12 generation is the most common version on UK roads. It features a softer, slightly more rounded take on the classic boxy shape. Inside, the design was famously inspired by a jacuzzi, with a curved dashboard and water-ripple motifs on the headlining.
Standard trim
The entry-level models are surprisingly well-equipped. You typically get air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control as standard. The seats are plush and comfortable, designed to mimic modern living room furniture rather than traditional car seats.
Kaizen trim
The top-spec Kaizen trim adds a few luxury touches. You will find features like climate control, a reversing camera, and a built-in touchscreen sat-nav. It also includes keyless entry and start, making your daily commute that little bit easier.
Body style and trim comparison
Unlike many other used cars, the Cube only comes in one highly distinctive body style. There is no sporty coupe or extended estate version—just the iconic, asymmetrical box.
When comparing trims, the standard model offers everything you truly need for comfortable daily driving. However, if you do a lot of city parking, finding a Kaizen model with a reversing camera is a brilliant upgrade. Because the rear window only wraps around one side, having that camera gives you complete peace of mind when backing into tight spaces.
If you are choosing between gearboxes, the manual feels a bit more engaging, but the CVT automatic perfectly matches the car's relaxed, easy-going nature.
What to look for when buying
When inspecting a potential purchase, checking the basics will save you from future headaches. Here is a quick checklist to keep in mind:
- Service history: Ensure the car has been regularly maintained. The 1.6-litre engine is robust, but regular oil changes are essential for keeping it happy.
- CVT gearbox: If you are buying an automatic, check that the gear changes feel completely smooth without any jerky movements or hesitation.
- Suspension: Because they are often used as city cars, check for any clunks or rattles from the suspension when driving over speed bumps.
- Interior wear: The light-coloured interior options can show stains easily. Make sure the 'sofa' seats are still supportive and free from major tears.
Frequently Asked Questions
What unique interior features does the Nissan Cube offer?
The interior is famously designed to feel like a relaxing lounge. It features plush, sofa-style seating, a curved dashboard inspired by a jacuzzi, and a unique water-ripple pattern moulded into the roof lining. You will also find incredibly practical storage cubbies hidden throughout the cabin.
Is the Nissan Cube reliable?
Yes, they are generally very reliable cars. Because they share many of their mechanical components with the dependable Nissan Micra and Note, finding parts is usually straightforward. As long as the car has a solid service history, it should provide years of trouble-free motoring.
Do they still make the Nissan Cube
Nissan officially stopped selling the Cube in the UK around 2011 due to low sales figures, though it continued to be manufactured for the Japanese market until 2019. Today, the only way to get your hands on one in the UK is to buy a used model through a trusted retailer like Cazoo.
How much does the Nissan Cube weigh?
The third-generation UK model weighs approximately 1,200 kg. This relatively lightweight construction helps the 1.6-litre engine feel lively around town, while also keeping fuel consumption to a respectable level for everyday driving.
