2009 Nissan Cube
By G.R. Whale
On Sale: Spring 2009
Expected Pricing: $14,500-$17,500
The 2009 Nissan Cube goes on sale this spring and it should stand out in terms of style while offering practicality and fuel efficiency.
Nissan jumps into the box business in early 2009 with the first American offering of the Cube, now on its third generation in the Japanese market. It has elements of the Honda Element and slices of Scion xB in style, and it's close to the original xB and VW Rabbit in size.
The front end looks like a bulldog in sunglasses, its rounded pillars and posts hearken to school math sets and subsets exercises, and an asymmetric rear window will help it stand out. When was the last time you saw curves at the leading edge of a back door or different window lines on each side? Sharing a platform with the Nissan Versa suggests some collaboration with Renault, and the Cube could pass as the modern interpretation of an old Gallic delivery wagon. From dead astern it looks like a giant C-shaped letter opener.
Fun function is the objective inside, with a sliding second row seat that rises as it travels rearward. The Cube seats five people. The cargo door opens to curbside, making it better for loading and unloading at the airport.
A defining design theme is that of water droplets. A quick look at the speakers or headliner ripples emanating from the cabin light will show exactly what we mean. Clear, concise gauges ride in the wavy dashboard, while an unusual climate control panel graces the center panel. Useful details include removable multi hooks for cargo, stylish cupholders and available Bluetooth, Intelligent Key/pushbutton start, XM radio, iPod interface, rear park assist, and a Rockford-Fosgate sound system.
Cube uses the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine used in the Versa rated at 122 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque. It's coupled to a six-speed manual or continuously variable transmission. The CVT automatic gets slightly better mileage than a conventional automatic. We expect EPA fuel economy ratings to range from 25 to 27 mpg in the city, 30 to 33 mpg on the highway. So the Cube should be inexpensive to operate.
A long wheelbase relative to its length suggests the Cube ride will be chop-free, and the tight turning circle and electrically assisted steering should make parking child's play.
Safety equipment includes six airbags and electronic stability control, which incorporates traction control and anti-lock brake management. Power locks and windows, intermittent front and rear wipers are standard along with all sorts of witty design elements and gadgets.
The 2009 Nissan Cube will be offered in 1.8, 1.8 S and 1.8 SL models with equipment and price expanding alongside the character count. Dealer accessories will allow further personal customizing touches, including bits like wheels, pet blankets, and illumination kits.
800-392-3673
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