Nissan Cube Z12 1.5 (109 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.7 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Nissan Cube:

The Nissan Cube is a mini MPV produced by carmaker Nissan between 1998 and 2019. Initially sold only in Japan, the Cube was sold in North American markets from 2009 to 2014, and in European markets from 2009 to 2011. In Japan, it was exclusive to Nissan Red Stage dealerships. It is a slightly larger load-carrying alternative to the Nissan Micra hatchback. While production for the North American market ended in 2014, the Japanese-market Cube lasted until December 2019.
The first-generation Cube was introduced in 1998. It shared the same platform as the Nissan Micra , as well as the same 1. 3 L inline-four engine. A continuously variable transmission and four-wheel drive were optional. The Cube helped narrow the gap in the Nissan lineup between the March and the Sunny....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Z12 Overview:

Nissan Cube (Z12). With 148 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1170 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Nissan Cube Z12 generation was not tested by Euro NCAP. However, it received generally good ratings from the IIHS in the US, indicating a reasonable level of occupant protection for its class.

1.5 (109 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Adequate power for city driving and light highway use, but not designed for spirited performance. Power delivery is smooth.

Fuel Economy

Expected to offer decent fuel economy for its displacement, making it a cost-effective option for daily commutes.

Best Use Case: City / Mixed

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Unique and polarizing styling stands out from the crowd.
  • • Surprisingly spacious and practical interior for its compact footprint.
  • • Excellent visibility due to large windows and upright seating position.
  • • Generally reliable Nissan engines, particularly the HR-series petrol units.
  • • Comfortable ride quality, well-suited for urban environments.

Cons:

  • • Design is not for everyone, limiting its broad appeal.
  • • CVT transmissions can feel unengaging and noisy under hard acceleration.
  • • Larger petrol engines can be thirsty, especially the 1.8L.
  • • Limited engine options in some markets, particularly the diesel.
  • • Not a performance-oriented vehicle; handling is competent but unexciting.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Z11: 2002 - 2008).

General:
Brand:Nissan
Model:Cube
Generation:Z12
Modification (Engine):1.5 (109 Hp)
Start of production:2008
End of production:2019
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:109 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:72.8 Hp/l [10mm less]
Torque:148 Nm @ 4400 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:HR15DE More details about the engine HR15DE
Engine displacement:1498
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:3 l
Coolant:6.6 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:73.6 mm mm
Piston Stroke:88 mm mm
Compression ratio:9.9:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Weight-to-power ratio:10.7 kg/Hp, 93.2 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:7.9 kg/Nm, 126.5 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1170
Fuel tank capacity:45 l
Size:
Length:3890 mm mm [10mm less]
Width:1695 mm mm [25mm more]
Height:1650 mm mm [5mm more]
Wheelbase:2530 mm mm [70mm less]
Front track:1480 mm
Rear (Back) track:1485 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]
Tires size175/65 R15

The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the Nissan Cube!