Nissan Cube: Geek Chic?
Nissan’s little Cube is one of those gotta-have machines we’ve been seeing for years at the Tokyo Motor Show and wondering why they didn’t bring it to the U.S. Now they’re finally going to.
Since it’s launch, in 1998, the Cube has had the same sort of geek appeal as the original Scion xB. It’s a boxy example of form=function=fun. Beyond the basic square-as-cool body, there’s the wraparound window that flows from side to rear, and what Nissan’s small car marketing manager Rich Latek describes as a “casual lounge” interior.
The problem, or problems, were multiple. With the first two generations, the single rear pillar was on the wrong side, and the car simply couldn’t meet U.S. crash specifications.
Third-generation Cube finally coming to America
All that changes with the introduction of the third-generation Cube, which was designed with the States clearly in mind. Like the latest version of the xB, some of the original concept has been modified in the process – some critics might say lost. The sharp edges have been rounded, especially around the windows and the crash-resistant rear bumper.
The new model is larger in most every direction, but for its height. Nose-to-tail, it gains ten inches, for example, with another five inches tacked onto the wheelbase. But it’s still likely to appeal to those who crave the xB or even the Mini Cooper, especially since Cube’s refrigerator-style rear hatch reveals an unexpectedly cavernous interior that’s markedly roomier than the similarly-priced and far less exotic Nissan Versa.
Look for a starting price of $13,990 (not including destination charges), Nissan will reveal, at this week’s Chicago Auto Show.
That is, of course, for a “base” Versa, with the 122-horsepower 1.8-liter inline-4-cylinder engine and 6-speed transmission. But as Nissan’s Pat Steiner tells us, don’t expect to see many stripped-down models going out the door. “We’re here to add a little excitement and attitude,” he said, pointing to the more lavishly-equipped Cube Chrome, which gets 16-inch wheels and tires, special side sills, an upgraded audio system with iPod input and a digital temperature control.
Taking a page from both the Scion and Mini playbooks, Nissan intends to offer a wide range of options, including special paint packages, audio systems, and shag carpet. Well, we think Steiner was joking when he mentioned that last option. At least, we hope so. But “customization” is a word Nissan officials are using a lot when they talk about Cube.
There’ll even be a NISMO version of the boxy little machine, and that will deliver customized suspension tuning, as well as body enhancements and other sporty touches.
Want the ultimate geek machine? Despite the recession – or maybe because of it – Nissan is making it sound like you’ll have to stand in line, much as you did with the Mini, in the months after launch. The automaker will shortly launch a new “Reserve Your Cube” program, inviting potential customers to research, design and reserve a Cube of their own.
Look for sales to begin this coming spring.