2009 Nissan cube: It's Cool to Be Square, Again?

What’s New:

The Nissan cube has been around for over 10 years in Japan. However, because of our fluctuating gas prices, Nissan decided to add this funky looking vehicle to its U. S. line up. This cool looking, cartoon-like box-on-wheels, with its odd shaped side and rear windows, is expected to go head-to-head with Toyota’s Scion xD and Kia’s Soul.

Must Have Goodies:

Like the Scion xD, Nissan is hoping to capture today’s Gen Y population along with other population groups looking to express themselves by having the ability to personalize their vehicle.

This square shaped compact can be outfitted with over 40 different accessories: a shag rug on the center of the instrument panel, a 4-piece illuminated kicker panel, a leather steering wheel with audio-mounted controls, 20-different interior colors, a push button ignition starter, a Bluetooth phone system, a Rockford Fosgate-subwoofer with 6 upgraded speakers, a XM Satellite radio, a rear sonar back-up system, a rear cargo organizer and 16-inch wheels are just a few of the add-ons.

What Rocked:

The cube, unlike most of today’s vehicles, makes great use out of every inch of its compact size. At first glance, the vehicle’s size seems quite deceiving. Yet, upon entering the cabin of the cube, with its low-step in height, one realizes the odd shaped vehicle is quite roomy and capable of carrying five tall adults.

Moreover, from the cube’s optional front door Bungees, which contains colored rubber band straps that slips into cutouts on the door armrests, securing items like maps, photos or the like, to the wave-like circles in the headliner, the spunky four-door fits every quirky personality.

And for a base price of $14,200, the cube’s standard features include a/c, power door locks, power windows, airbags galore, remote keyless entry, ABS, 6 cupholders, reclining rear seats integrated with a rear fold-down center armrest, cargo area hooks, two gigantic sun visors, lots of headroom for tall occupants, a rear window defroster and an AM/FM/CD - 140-watt system, which includes 2 speakers.

Oh, yes, we can’t forget the oversized windows, allowing for enhanced visibility. Moreover, the short wheelbase makes the vehicle easy to maneuver on the road or in crowded parking areas. Surprisingly, the 15-inch standard tires, the independent MacPherson strut front design, with a torsion beam rear axle, with integrated stabilizer bar and tall comfortable seats are great for long distance road trip.

What We Disliked:

While we loved the roomy front seats, it’s too bad, the cube didn’t offer a front seat armrest for the passenger seat just as it does for the driver. Also when the rear safety headrests and seats are in use, it obstructs visibility and limits the cargo space.

Any Juice:

Don’t expect the cube to go as fast as its big brother the Nissan 370Z. However, expect 24 to 28 miles in city driving and 29 to 30 miles on the road, with the peppy 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine, which spews out 122 horses. This is the same engine found in the Nissan Versa. Like the Versa, the cube is available either as a manual or automatic transmission.

The Verdict:

For those looking for an expressive, reliable ride, the cube could be the perfect fit for you. Not only can you personalize the vehicle, the cube offers almost everything typically found in most crossovers, minivans, station wagons or SUVs, conversely, in a much smaller, but hipper package. The cube, which starts out the gate at $14,200, barley tops $20,000, when well-equipped.

Competition: Toyota’s Scion xD and Kia's Soul