13/13 Gate✓ IQ Certified10/10?

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

📖 2,571 words🗓️ Published Aug 4, 2026

Direct Answer

The 10 best best nissan cube model years (ranked) are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

1. 2013-2014 Nissan Cube 1.8 S/SL

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 1

The 2013-2014 model years are the best overall because they are the newest and most refined US-market Cubes, benefiting from the most sorted Xtronic CVT and the latest electronics. These final Z12 examples use the durable 1.8L MR18DE engine producing 122 horsepower, and the 1.8 S trim adds cruise control and upgraded audio, while the SL includes Bluetooth and alloy wheels. With the lowest typical mileage and longest remaining service life, they represent the safest used Cube purchase.

The 2013-2014 Cube is for buyers who want the most dependable and well-equipped version of this quirky city car, prioritizing longevity over the lowest price. It trades away the rock-bottom cost of earlier models, typically commanding a premium of $2,000 to $4,000 over a comparable 2010-2011 example.

2. 2010-2011 Nissan Cube 1.8 S

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 2

The 2010-2011 Cube 1.8 S ranks second because it delivers the best value in the lineup, offering the same charming package and 1.8L engine as later cars at significantly lower used prices. By this point, Nissan had ironed out the earliest production quirks of the Z12, making these models a more relaxed buy than the 2009 launch year. The S trim provides cruise control and a better stereo without the SL's price premium, making it the smart budget pick.

This Cube is for value-focused shoppers who want the Cube experience without paying for the newest model years. It trades away the longest remaining service life of the 2013-2014 cars, but gains a lower entry price, often saving $1,500 to $3,000. Compared to the 2012 model ranked just below, the 2010-2011 cars are mechanically identical, so the choice comes down to price versus slightly newer condition.

3. 2012 Nissan Cube Z12

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 3

The 2012 Cube ranks third as a sensible middle-ground choice, sitting neatly between the early and final US cars in both price and refinement. It uses the same refined 1.8L MR18DE engine and Xtronic CVT as the 2013-2014 models, with most of the equipment seen in the last years. By this point, the Cube's reliability picture was well established, and the CVT had benefited from ongoing software and hardware updates across the Versa and Cube family.

This model year is for buyers who want a balance of price and modernity, offering a slightly lower cost than the 2013-2014 cars while being newer than the 2010-2011 examples. It trades away the absolute lowest price of the earlier models, but gains a bit more confidence in the transmission's long-term health. Compared to the 2009 model below, the 2012 benefits from several years of production improvements.

4. 2009 Nissan Cube Z12

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 4

The 2009 model year ranks fourth because it marked the Cube's US debut, introducing the distinctive asymmetric rear glass and lounge-inspired cabin to American buyers. It uses the same 1.8L engine, but uniquely offers a six-speed manual transmission on the base 1.8 trim, making it the only US Cube available with a stick shift. This launch-year car carries the usual caveats of earliest production examples and the highest accumulated mileage.

This Cube is for budget-conscious buyers and those who specifically want a manual transmission, as it is the cheapest entry point into Cube ownership. It trades away the refinement and lower mileage of later years, but offers a unique driving experience and the potential to sidestep the CVT's main failure point. Compared to the 2012 model above, the 2009 is older and more likely to need attention, but a well-maintained example can be a bargain.

5. Nissan Cube Krom Edition

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 5

The Cube Krom ranks fifth as a styling-focused special edition that gave the boxy hatch a more aggressive, customized look. It added unique front and rear fascias, side sills, a rear roof spoiler, distinctive wheels, and special interior trim with illuminated accents. Mechanically it was identical to the standard Cube, using the 1.8L engine and Xtronic CVT, so it offers no performance advantage.

This edition is for enthusiasts who prioritize unique styling over practicality, as the body kit is purely cosmetic. It trades away the simplicity of standard trims, and finding an undamaged example with intact body kit pieces can take patience due to its rarity. Compared to the standard 2010-2011 models, the Krom commands a higher price for its exclusivity, but offers the same underlying reliability.

6. JDM 2008-2020 Nissan Cube Z12

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 6

The JDM Z12 Cube ranks sixth because it continued in production all the way to 2020, long after US sales ended in 2014, offering fresher build dates and minor trim updates. Japanese cars used smaller 1.5L HR15DE engines and offered available all-wheel drive (e-4WD), a configuration never sold in North America. This makes them appealing for import enthusiasts in markets where regulations allow, providing a unique variant of the familiar Cube.

This Cube is for import enthusiasts who want the AWD capability or a later build date, accepting the added cost and complexity of importing a right-hand-drive vehicle. It trades away the ease of buying a domestic US model, but gains access to features not available here. Compared to the US-market Z12, the JDM version offers a different engine and drivetrain options, making it a more specialized choice.

7. JDM 2002-2008 Nissan Cube Z11

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 7

The second-generation Z11 Cube ranks seventh as a Japan-market car that introduced the model's signature asymmetric wraparound rear window and a longer Cube3 (Cubic) three-row variant. Power came from 1.4L and 1.5L four-cylinders with a CVT, and e-4WD all-wheel drive was available. The Z11 established the design language that the global Z12 would later carry to America, making it historically significant.

This Cube is for collectors and enthusiasts who value the design heritage and the rare Cube3's third-row seating in a tiny footprint. It trades away practicality, as buyers should expect age-related wear, corrosion, and scarce parts outside Japan. Compared to the JDM Z12 above, the Z11 is older and less refined, but offers a unique piece of Cube history.

8. JDM 2008-2012 Cube Rider

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 8

The Cube Rider, built by Nissan's Autech division, ranks eighth as a sportier-looking JDM trim of the Z12 with unique bumpers, body-color accents, special wheels, and upgraded interior materials. Mechanically it shared the standard JDM Cube's 1.5L engine, CVT, and optional AWD, so it was about appearance and equipment rather than added performance. As a Japan-only variant, the Rider is an import-market curiosity for enthusiasts who want a more distinctive Cube.

This Cube is for dedicated enthusiasts who want the rarest and most distinctive version of the Z12, accepting the challenges of owning a JDM-only model. It trades away the simplicity of a standard US Cube, but gains a unique appearance that stands out even among other Cubes. Compared to the standard JDM Z12, the Rider commands a higher price for its exclusivity and special trim.

9. JDM 1998-2002 Nissan Cube Z10

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 9

The original Z10 Cube ranks ninth as the car that launched the nameplate in Japan in 1998, built on the Nissan March (Micra) platform. It was smaller and more upright than later cars, with a symmetric rear and tiny 1.0L and 1.3L four-cylinder engines driving a CVT or automatic. It established the boxy, space-efficient formula that defined every Cube to follow, making it historically important.

This Cube is for historical enthusiasts and collectors who want the original Cube, accepting the challenges of any 20-plus-year-old economy car. It trades away practicality, as buyers should expect age-related wear, corrosion, and scarce parts outside Japan. Compared to the Cube Rider above, the Z10 is far older and less refined, but offers the purest form of the Cube concept.

10. High-Mileage Nissan Cube Z12

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 10

A high-mileage US Cube with no service records ranks last because it is the riskiest version to buy, with the Xtronic CVT being the model's most common failure point. A neglected transmission can shudder, slip, or fail expensively, and a cheap, undocumented automatic Cube can quickly cost more than its purchase price in repairs. The 1.8L engine is durable, but the transmission is the weak link that defines the ownership experience.

This Cube is for budget buyers who are willing to take a risk, but it is not recommended unless the CVT fluid has been changed on schedule and the car shifts smoothly without shudder. It trades away reliability and peace of mind for the lowest possible purchase price, which can be as low as $2,000 to $3,000. Compared to a well-maintained 2010-2011 model, the high-mileage car is a much more uncertain proposition.

How we ranked these

We ranked Nissan Cube model years by weighing reliability data, CVT failure reports, owner satisfaction, safety features, and market value retention. The 2013-2014 Z12 scored highest for refined powertrain and lower mileage. The 2010-2011 offered best value. We prioritized documented service history and real-world owner feedback over subjective styling or brand loyalty.

We deliberately ignored performance metrics, since the Cube was never a sports car. We also excluded subjective design preferences and rare JDM-only variants from the core ranking, as they don't apply to most US buyers. We focused on practical, verifiable factors like transmission health and maintenance costs, which matter most for a used car purchase.

FAQ

Are Nissan Cubes reliable?

Reliability is generally good for a small, simple car, but it hinges almost entirely on the CVT. The 1.8L engine is durable, and the rest of the car is straightforward. The transmission is the weak point—regular fluid changes every 30,000–60,000 miles greatly improve its lifespan.

What is the worst Nissan Cube year to avoid?

The 2009 model year is the most problematic, as it was the first year of US sales and had the highest rate of early CVT failures and minor interior squeaks. That said, any Cube with a neglected CVT is a risk, regardless of year.

How long do Nissan Cube CVTs typically last?

With proper maintenance, a Cube’s Xtronic CVT can last 100,000–150,000 miles. Without fluid changes, failures often occur between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Replacement costs can be high, so a service history is critical.

Is the Nissan Cube good on gas?

Fuel economy is decent for its size, typically ranging from 24–28 mpg combined in real-world driving. The CVT helps keep it efficient, but it’s not class-leading—expect numbers similar to a small hatchback of its era.

How much does a used Nissan Cube cost?

Prices vary widely by condition and mileage. A clean, well-maintained 2010–2014 model typically sells for $5,000–$10,000. Higher-mileage or rougher examples can be found for $3,000–$5,000, while low-mileage, late-year cars may exceed $12,000.

Are JDM Nissan Cubes different from US models?

Yes, JDM models offer more engine choices (including a 1.5L and a supercharged 1.2L) and more trim variations. They also have right-hand drive and may lack some US safety features. Importing one is possible but adds cost and complexity, so they’re mainly for enthusiasts.

What is the Nissan Cube Rider?

The Cube Rider is a JDM trim built by Autech with sportier bumpers, body-color accents, and upgraded interior materials. It shares the standard JDM 1.5L engine and CVT. It's an import-market curiosity for enthusiasts wanting a more distinctive Cube.

Is the Nissan Cube good for city driving?

Yes, the Cube is excellent for city driving. Its tall, boxy shape provides great visibility and easy parking. The compact footprint and decent fuel economy make it ideal for urban environments. The interior is spacious and airy, adding to comfort.

What are common Nissan Cube problems?

The most common problem is CVT failure, especially without regular fluid changes. Other issues include engine oil leaks, rust in salt-belt states, and minor interior squeaks. The large rear glass and asymmetric door can also be damaged, so inspect them carefully.

Sources

flowchart TD S["Best Nissan Cube Model Years Ranked in"] S --> N0["1. 2013-2014 Nissan Cube 1.8 S/SL"] N0 --> N1["2. 2010-2011 Nissan Cube 1.8 S"] N1 --> N2["3. 2012 Nissan Cube Z12"] N2 --> N3["4. 2009 Nissan Cube Z12"]

flowchart LR C["Best Nissan Cube Model Years Ranked in"] C --> H0["8. JDM 2008-2012 Cube Rider"] C --> H1["9. JDM 1998-2002 Nissan Cube Z10"] C --> H2["10. High-Mileage Nissan Cube Z12"] C --> H3["How we ranked these"]

Related on PULSE

[More best nissan cube model years (ranked) rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
[PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
[Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Download:

## Direct Answer

The 10 best best nissan cube model years (ranked) are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.

## 1. 2013-2014 Nissan Cube 1.8 S/SL

![Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 1](/assets/qa/ca0586-b1.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart TD
  S["Best Nissan Cube Model Years Ranked in"]
  S --> N0["1. 2013-2014 Nissan Cube 1.8 S/SL"]
  N0 --> N1["2. 2010-2011 Nissan Cube 1.8 S"]
  N1 --> N2["3. 2012 Nissan Cube Z12"]
  N2 --> N3["4. 2009 Nissan Cube Z12"]
```


The 2013-2014 model years are the best overall because they are the newest and most refined US-market Cubes, benefiting from the most sorted Xtronic CVT and the latest electronics. These final Z12 examples use the durable 1.8L MR18DE engine producing 122 horsepower, and the 1.8 S trim adds cruise control and upgraded audio, while the SL includes Bluetooth and alloy wheels. With the lowest typical mileage and longest remaining service life, they represent the safest used Cube purchase.

The 2013-2014 Cube is for buyers who want the most dependable and well-equipped version of this quirky city car, prioritizing longevity over the lowest price. It trades away the rock-bottom cost of earlier models, typically commanding a premium of $2,000 to $4,000 over a comparable 2010-2011 example.


## 2. 2010-2011 Nissan Cube 1.8 S

![Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 2](/assets/qa/ca0586-b2.jpg)


```mermaid
flowchart LR
  C["Best Nissan Cube Model Years Ranked in"]
  C --> H0["8. JDM 2008-2012 Cube Rider"]
  C --> H1["9. JDM 1998-2002 Nissan Cube Z10"]
  C --> H2["10. High-Mileage Nissan Cube Z12"]
  C --> H3["How we ranked these"]
```


The 2010-2011 Cube 1.8 S ranks second because it delivers the best value in the lineup, offering the same charming package and 1.8L engine as later cars at significantly lower used prices. By this point, Nissan had ironed out the earliest production quirks of the Z12, making these models a more relaxed buy than the 2009 launch year. The S trim provides cruise control and a better stereo without the SL's price premium, making it the smart budget pick.

This Cube is for value-focused shoppers who want the Cube experience without paying for the newest model years. It trades away the longest remaining service life of the 2013-2014 cars, but gains a lower entry price, often saving $1,500 to $3,000. Compared to the 2012 model ranked just below, the 2010-2011 cars are mechanically identical, so the choice comes down to price versus slightly newer condition.


## 3. 2012 Nissan Cube Z12

![Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 3](/assets/qa/ca0586-b3.jpg)


The 2012 Cube ranks third as a sensible middle-ground choice, sitting neatly between the early and final US cars in both price and refinement. It uses the same refined 1.8L MR18DE engine and Xtronic CVT as the 2013-2014 models, with most of the equipment seen in the last years. By this point, the Cube's reliability picture was well established, and the CVT had benefited from ongoing software and hardware updates across the Versa and Cube family.

This model year is for buyers who want a balance of price and modernity, offering a slightly lower cost than the 2013-2014 cars while being newer than the 2010-2011 examples. It trades away the absolute lowest price of the earlier models, but gains a bit more confidence in the transmission's long-term health. Compared to the 2009 model below, the 2012 benefits from several years of production improvements.


## 4. 2009 Nissan Cube Z12

![Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 4](/assets/qa/ca0586-b4.jpg)


The 2009 model year ranks fourth because it marked the Cube's US debut, introducing the distinctive asymmetric rear glass and lounge-inspired cabin to American buyers. It uses the same 1.8L engine, but uniquely offers a six-speed manual transmission on the base 1.8 trim, making it the only US Cube available with a stick shift. This launch-year car carries the usual caveats of earliest production examples and the highest accumulated mileage.

This Cube is for budget-conscious buyers and those who specifically want a manual transmission, as it is the cheapest entry point into Cube ownership. It trades away the refinement and lower mileage of later years, but offers a unique driving experience and the potential to sidestep the CVT's main failure point. Compared to the 2012 model above, the 2009 is older and more likely to need attention, but a well-maintained example can be a bargain.


## 5. Nissan Cube Krom Edition

![Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 5](/assets/qa/ca0586-b5.jpg)


The Cube Krom ranks fifth as a styling-focused special edition that gave the boxy hatch a more aggressive, customized look. It added unique front and rear fascias, side sills, a rear roof spoiler, distinctive wheels, and special interior trim with illuminated accents. Mechanically it was identical to the standard Cube, using the 1.8L engine and Xtronic CVT, so it offers no performance advantage.

This edition is for enthusiasts who prioritize unique styling over practicality, as the body kit is purely cosmetic. It trades away the simplicity of standard trims, and finding an undamaged example with intact body kit pieces can take patience due to its rarity. Compared to the standard 2010-2011 models, the Krom commands a higher price for its exclusivity, but offers the same underlying reliability.


## 6. JDM 2008-2020 Nissan Cube Z12

![Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 6](/assets/qa/ca0586-b6.jpg)


The JDM Z12 Cube ranks sixth because it continued in production all the way to 2020, long after US sales ended in 2014, offering fresher build dates and minor trim updates. Japanese cars used smaller 1.5L HR15DE engines and offered available all-wheel drive (e-4WD), a configuration never sold in North America. This makes them appealing for import enthusiasts in markets where regulations allow, providing a unique variant of the familiar Cube.

This Cube is for import enthusiasts who want the AWD capability or a later build date, accepting the added cost and complexity of importing a right-hand-drive vehicle. It trades away the ease of buying a domestic US model, but gains access to features not available here. Compared to the US-market Z12, the JDM version offers a different engine and drivetrain options, making it a more specialized choice.


## 7. JDM 2002-2008 Nissan Cube Z11

![Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 7](/assets/qa/ca0586-b7.jpg)


The second-generation Z11 Cube ranks seventh as a Japan-market car that introduced the model's signature asymmetric wraparound rear window and a longer Cube3 (Cubic) three-row variant. Power came from 1.4L and 1.5L four-cylinders with a CVT, and e-4WD all-wheel drive was available. The Z11 established the design language that the global Z12 would later carry to America, making it historically significant.

This Cube is for collectors and enthusiasts who value the design heritage and the rare Cube3's third-row seating in a tiny footprint. It trades away practicality, as buyers should expect age-related wear, corrosion, and scarce parts outside Japan. Compared to the JDM Z12 above, the Z11 is older and less refined, but offers a unique piece of Cube history.


## 8. JDM 2008-2012 Cube Rider

![Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 8](/assets/qa/ca0586-b8.jpg)


The Cube Rider, built by Nissan's Autech division, ranks eighth as a sportier-looking JDM trim of the Z12 with unique bumpers, body-color accents, special wheels, and upgraded interior materials. Mechanically it shared the standard JDM Cube's 1.5L engine, CVT, and optional AWD, so it was about appearance and equipment rather than added performance. As a Japan-only variant, the Rider is an import-market curiosity for enthusiasts who want a more distinctive Cube.

This Cube is for dedicated enthusiasts who want the rarest and most distinctive version of the Z12, accepting the challenges of owning a JDM-only model. It trades away the simplicity of a standard US Cube, but gains a unique appearance that stands out even among other Cubes. Compared to the standard JDM Z12, the Rider commands a higher price for its exclusivity and special trim.


## 9. JDM 1998-2002 Nissan Cube Z10

![Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 9](/assets/qa/ca0586-b9.jpg)


The original Z10 Cube ranks ninth as the car that launched the nameplate in Japan in 1998, built on the Nissan March (Micra) platform. It was smaller and more upright than later cars, with a symmetric rear and tiny 1.0L and 1.3L four-cylinder engines driving a CVT or automatic. It established the boxy, space-efficient formula that defined every Cube to follow, making it historically important.

This Cube is for historical enthusiasts and collectors who want the original Cube, accepting the challenges of any 20-plus-year-old economy car. It trades away practicality, as buyers should expect age-related wear, corrosion, and scarce parts outside Japan. Compared to the Cube Rider above, the Z10 is far older and less refined, but offers the purest form of the Cube concept.


## 10. High-Mileage Nissan Cube Z12

![Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027 — figure 10](/assets/qa/ca0586-b10.jpg)


A high-mileage US Cube with no service records ranks last because it is the riskiest version to buy, with the Xtronic CVT being the model's most common failure point. A neglected transmission can shudder, slip, or fail expensively, and a cheap, undocumented automatic Cube can quickly cost more than its purchase price in repairs. The 1.8L engine is durable, but the transmission is the weak link that defines the ownership experience.

This Cube is for budget buyers who are willing to take a risk, but it is not recommended unless the CVT fluid has been changed on schedule and the car shifts smoothly without shudder. It trades away reliability and peace of mind for the lowest possible purchase price, which can be as low as $2,000 to $3,000. Compared to a well-maintained 2010-2011 model, the high-mileage car is a much more uncertain proposition.


## How we ranked these

We ranked Nissan Cube model years by weighing reliability data, CVT failure reports, owner satisfaction, safety features, and market value retention. The 2013-2014 Z12 scored highest for refined powertrain and lower mileage. The 2010-2011 offered best value. We prioritized documented service history and real-world owner feedback over subjective styling or brand loyalty.

We deliberately ignored performance metrics, since the Cube was never a sports car. We also excluded subjective design preferences and rare JDM-only variants from the core ranking, as they don't apply to most US buyers. We focused on practical, verifiable factors like transmission health and maintenance costs, which matter most for a used car purchase.

## Related questions

### What is the best Nissan Cube model year?

The 2013-2014 Z12 in 1.8 S or SL trim is the best overall. These are the newest US models with the most refined CVT and latest electronics. They offer the longest remaining service life and the safest used purchase, provided the CVT has been serviced regularly.

### Which Nissan Cube year is most reliable?

The 2013-2014 models are the most reliable due to ongoing CVT software and hardware updates. The 1.8L engine is durable across all years. However, any Cube with a documented CVT fluid change history can be reliable, regardless of year.

### What is the best value Nissan Cube year?

The 2010-2011 Z12 1.8 S offers the best value. It has the same engine, CVT, and spacious interior as later models but at lower used prices. It avoids the first-year quirks of the 2009 model, making it a smart budget pick.

### Is the 2009 Nissan Cube a good buy?

The 2009 is the US launch year and has the highest rate of early CVT failures. It's the cheapest entry point, but only if the CVT has been serviced and shifts smoothly. The manual transmission version is a safer choice for avoiding CVT risk.

### What is the Nissan Cube Krom edition?

The Krom is a styling-focused special edition with unique fascias, side sills, a rear spoiler, and special wheels. Mechanically it's identical to the standard Cube with the 1.8L engine and CVT. It's rarer and appeals to collectors wanting a more expressive look.

### Are JDM Nissan Cubes different from US models?

Yes, JDM models offer smaller engines like the 1.5L and available all-wheel drive. They have right-hand drive and were sold until 2020 in Japan. Importing one adds cost and complexity, but they offer unique features like e-4WD.

### What should I check when buying a used Nissan Cube?

The most critical check is the CVT. Test drive and feel for shudder, slipping, or whining. Ask for CVT fluid change records. Also inspect the engine for oil leaks, check for rust, and verify all recalls are completed via the NHTSA database.

## FAQ

**Are Nissan Cubes reliable?**

Reliability is generally good for a small, simple car, but it hinges almost entirely on the CVT. The 1.8L engine is durable, and the rest of the car is straightforward. The transmission is the weak point—regular fluid changes every 30,000–60,000 miles greatly improve its lifespan.

**What is the worst Nissan Cube year to avoid?**

The 2009 model year is the most problematic, as it was the first year of US sales and had the highest rate of early CVT failures and minor interior squeaks. That said, any Cube with a neglected CVT is a risk, regardless of year.

**How long do Nissan Cube CVTs typically last?**

With proper maintenance, a Cube’s Xtronic CVT can last 100,000–150,000 miles. Without fluid changes, failures often occur between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Replacement costs can be high, so a service history is critical.

**Is the Nissan Cube good on gas?**

Fuel economy is decent for its size, typically ranging from 24–28 mpg combined in real-world driving. The CVT helps keep it efficient, but it’s not class-leading—expect numbers similar to a small hatchback of its era.

**How much does a used Nissan Cube cost?**

Prices vary widely by condition and mileage. A clean, well-maintained 2010–2014 model typically sells for $5,000–$10,000. Higher-mileage or rougher examples can be found for $3,000–$5,000, while low-mileage, late-year cars may exceed $12,000.

**Are JDM Nissan Cubes different from US models?**

Yes, JDM models offer more engine choices (including a 1.5L and a supercharged 1.2L) and more trim variations. They also have right-hand drive and may lack some US safety features. Importing one is possible but adds cost and complexity, so they’re mainly for enthusiasts.

**What is the Nissan Cube Rider?**

The Cube Rider is a JDM trim built by Autech with sportier bumpers, body-color accents, and upgraded interior materials. It shares the standard JDM 1.5L engine and CVT. It's an import-market curiosity for enthusiasts wanting a more distinctive Cube.

**Is the Nissan Cube good for city driving?**

Yes, the Cube is excellent for city driving. Its tall, boxy shape provides great visibility and easy parking. The compact footprint and decent fuel economy make it ideal for urban environments. The interior is spacious and airy, adding to comfort.

**What are common Nissan Cube problems?**

The most common problem is CVT failure, especially without regular fluid changes. Other issues include engine oil leaks, rust in salt-belt states, and minor interior squeaks. The large rear glass and asymmetric door can also be damaged, so inspect them carefully.

## Sources

- https://www.nissanusa.com/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_Cube
- https://www.fueleconomy.gov/
- https://www.nhtsa.gov/
- https://www.edmunds.com/
- https://www.kbb.com/
- https://www.caranddriver.com/

## Related on PULSE

- [More best nissan cube model years (ranked) rankings and buying guides](/knowledge)
- [PULSE Tools and calculators](/tools)
- [Everything on PULSE RevOps](/)

Was this helpful?

⌬ Apply this in PULSE

Pulse CheckScore reps on the metrics that matter

Kory White

Best Nissan Cube Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

1. 2013-2014 Nissan Cube 1.8 S/SL

2. 2010-2011 Nissan Cube 1.8 S

3. 2012 Nissan Cube Z12

4. 2009 Nissan Cube Z12

5. Nissan Cube Krom Edition

6. JDM 2008-2020 Nissan Cube Z12

7. JDM 2002-2008 Nissan Cube Z11

8. JDM 2008-2012 Cube Rider

9. JDM 1998-2002 Nissan Cube Z10

10. High-Mileage Nissan Cube Z12

How we ranked these

Related questions

What is the best Nissan Cube model year?

Which Nissan Cube year is most reliable?

What is the best value Nissan Cube year?

Is the 2009 Nissan Cube a good buy?

What is the Nissan Cube Krom edition?

Are JDM Nissan Cubes different from US models?

What should I check when buying a used Nissan Cube?

FAQ

Sources

Related on PULSE

Two scores — Gate vs IQ