What is it? Starting at $13,990, the fashionable Nissan Cube will soon join youth-targeted models such as the Kia Soul and Scion xB. While it's been sold in Japan for about 10 years, the Cube coming to the U.S. is a redesigned, third-generation model. This small car holds five passengers in a surprisingly roomy interior. It's powered by a 122-hp, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, which is mated to either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual. Nissan claims the Cube will get more than 30 mpg on the highway.
Standard safety features include electronic stability control and side and curtain air bags. Other available features include a push-button ignition, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, premium six-speaker audio system with subwoofer, iPod interface, and satellite radio.
At the Chicago Auto Show, Nissan introduced a special-edition model called Krom. Pronounced chrome, this version builds on the midlevel Cube 1.8S by adding a chrome grille, specific front and rear fascias, side sills, rear roof spoiler, and 16-inch wheels. Inside, the Krom features Bluetooth connectivity, upgraded audio system, titanium and aluminum trim, and automatic climate control.
What's new and notable? The Cube's three-position rear seat can be slid fore and aft. The rearmost position provides generous rear legroom for a small car, but the forward position leaves virtually no legroom, instead trading it for optimal cargo space.
CR's take: Good fuel economy and a roomy interior promise to make the Cube one of the more interesting of the small cars that will be showing up on U.S. shores in the next few years.
