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Is there anything better than a car with a name that describes exactly what it is? Yes, car names don’t come any more honest than the Nissan Cube which is indeed a cube on wheels.
The Cube is basically a micro people mover, but so big was its following in Japan that it became an icon. Built between 1998 and 2019 you might be surprised to learn that despite there being so many Cubes on our roads it was never sold in Australia by Nissan.
Yup all the Cubes you’ve see have been imported privately. There you go, amaze your friends with that trivia!
I’d go for the Rukus every time. And that’s not to say there’s anything inherently wrong with the Nissan Cube, but it was only sold here as a private import with all the insurance, servicing and spare-parts hassles that can bring with it.
But besides all that, the Rukus is, mechanically speaking, the previous-generation Toyota Camry, built on a Corolla platform with a super-useable boxy body. So, as well as being amazingly practical, it should also be a zero-hassle ownership experience. The Rukus might not have the pizzazz of the Nissan, but it’s the one to buy second-hand.
Just like many other small urban runabout vehicles, Nissan's Cube is not designed to pull trailers. Their small engines don't make enough torque to pull loads without straining, and their suspension isn't designed for heavy weights.
Nissan's Cube has become a popular grey import in Australia thanks to its cheap price, quirky looks and practical nature. However, a lack of commonly available spare parts can make the Cube a frustrating car to have repaired when parts fail or wear out. Unless you're a real Nissan Cube fan I'd shop for a Toyota bB, or Kia Soul.