The Rukus was a really interesting vehicle, combining robust mechanicals with a no-nonsense layout that made the absolute most of the car’s footprint without the trendy all-wheel-drive or faux off-roader looks that many SUVs were trading on at the time. For all that, it wasn’t a huge seller in Australia, so they’re a bit thin on the ground.

The 2010 Rukus was about $30,000 brand new, but its Corolla-based platform and Camry-derived running gear means than 230,000km shouldn’t put it beyond consideration (where such mileage might in a lot of less robust vehicles). Even so, you’d want to see a full service history and complete maintenance record to be sure that it still has some life still in it.

A quick online check reveals a few of Rukuses for sale right now with similar mileages and similar price-tags. Which suggests the price you’ve been quoted is about right, all things considered. Once again, assuming that the service record is complete.

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.

It’s rated to tow 500 kg.