Despite its somewhat boxy shape, the 2011 Nissan Cube is surprisingly nimble on the road. Crosswinds don't seem to present a problem. Acceleration is great, allowing you to zip along without any issues. As fun as the Cube is to drive, though, it comes at a price: noise. Road noise in the 2011 Cube, especially when on the freeway, is practically unbearable. Even when the radio is cranked all the way up, it's sometimes difficult to hear. Those who want serene, quiet rides should look elsewhere.
The cube offers space for five in its lounge-like interior, or 58 cubic feet of cargo room, and more than 40 accessories to help buyers customize cube to their precise tastes and needs.
The latest Nissan cube is available in three standard and one special model: cube 1.8, cube 1.8 S and cube 1.8 SL, and also in a special cube 1.8 S Krom Edition.
The 2011 Nissan Cube comes reasonably well equipped with amenities like air conditioning, power windows, mirrors, and locks, remote keyless entry, and an intermittent rear wiper. Detachable hooks for bags can be affixed to the dashboard or doors and you can secure maps, cell phones and the like via plastic straps on the door armrests.
The new-for-Cube navigation system is part of the Preferred Package option for SL models and is standard on the 1.8 S Krōm Edition. This navigation setup is one of Nissan’s rather basic units; it doesn’t include voice recognition, for example, and uses a modestly sized 5-inch diameter dashboard touchscreen. But it’s a worthwhile accessory that uses an SD memory-card-based software and includes XM satellite radio and NavTraffic capability and a USB iPod interface Package.
Depending on the model, other available features include pushbutton ignition, a Rockford Fosgate audio system with subwoofer with six speakers, and a rear-view monitor for easier and safer parking. Eccentricities include “shag” carpeting for some interior shelf surfaces and a 20-color cabin-accent lighting kit.
The 2011 Nissan Cube styling continues with the same blend of cute and weird it debuted with for model-year 2009. Cube has a pug nose, glassy upper body, and an unusual right-rear corner that uses black-out glass to create the illusion of an asymmetrical tail design. Cube is taller than it is wide, so you sit comfortably upright on chair-like seats. There are seatbelts for five, but the rear seat is really wide enough for just two adults. Outward visibility is quite good – you’ll even feel a little exposed behind those big windows. In fact, Cube’s window size is a drawback to keeping the cabin cool on hot, sunny days. And Cube needs bigger sun visors; swiveling them to the side blocks only a fraction of the solar spotlight assaulting the driver and front passenger.
A body just an inch longer than that of a standard Mini Cooper spells no-fuss city parking, though you’ll need to leave room behind for the large, side-hinged cargo door. The rear bench slides fore/aft to prioritize cargo or people space. Its seatbacks split and fold, but the lower cushions don’t. So despite in impressive-sounding 58-cubic-feet of maximum cargo volume, you can’t create a flat load floor. That detracts from some of the utility promised by this boxy body. The cabin design itself is fairly traditional, with a simple, user-friendly dashboard, though the symmetrical-circle design in the headliner is truly odd.
The 2011 Nissan Cube is offered in four models, labeled 1.8, 1.8 S, 1.8 SL, and 1.8 Krōm Edition. The last, pronounced “chrome,” has subtly different front and rear styling and some exclusive interior trim. Cube 1.8 and 1.8 S models come with 15-inch tires with wheel covers; 1.8 SL and 1.8 Krōm Edition models come with 16-inch alloys. Different wheels and aero body panels are also available for all models.
The front-wheel drive cube is built on Nissan’s B-platform and is offered with a standard 122-horsepower, 127 lb-ft of torque 1.8-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine and a choice of Nissan's Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) or six-speed manual transmission.
The cube also provides fuel efficiency of 27 city, 31 mpg highway with the CVT transmission. For the current model year, the combined fuel economy rating increases to 29 mpg (from the previous 28 mpg).
With the six-speed manual transmission fuel economy comes in at 25 city, 30 highway mpg.
Conclusion: Is the 2011 Nissan Cube a Smart Buy?
The Nissan Cube is unusual looking, which is a big part of its attraction to drivers. And if you’re looking to be an individual, perhaps it’s the car for you. But if you’re looking for a roomy cabin, a quiet drive or ample options, there also could be reason to look at other alternatives.
Pros
There are two main advantages to the 2011 Nissan Cube: fun and affordability. This car is definitely geared towards young drivers; its unique styling isn't going to appeal to everyone. Nimble handling and fairly good gas mileage are also perks of driving the Cube. Zipping around in this eye-catching car is definitely an experience. Its exceptional acceleration also brings extra fun to the table for drivers who need to get where they are going fast.
Cons
Without a doubt, the 2011 Nissan Cube's unique styling is one of its biggest downfalls. Many drivers just won't be able to get past its strange appearance. Those who need to bring along older kids will also be dismayed by the cramped backseat; this car isn't designed for long road trips. When on the highway, the 2011 Cube is unacceptably loud; road noise and wind take over, making for a stressful driving experience. Overall, however, the low price of the Cube will make up for most of these issues.
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