Nissan Cube 1.6 Kaizen: 5 Practical Features For Families

The Nissan Cube 1.6 Kaizen stands out as a bold departure from conventional car design, offering a compact MPV that prioritizes space, comfort, and unique aesthetics over sporty thrills. Launched as an official UK import, this model combines supermini roots with MPV practicality, making it ideal for families seeking something different.

Distinctive Design That Turns Heads

At first glance, the Nissan Cube resembles a futuristic fridge or a softened hot rod, thanks to its asymmetrical front with a single large headlight on one side and its near-vertical windscreen. Measuring 3,980mm in length, 1,680mm in height, and with a 2,530mm wheelbase, it maintains compact dimensions suitable for city parking while providing an expansive feel inside. The upright stance and extensive glass area enhance visibility, reducing the ‘invisible length’ ahead and creating a stress-free driving environment.

Kaizen trim adds flair with 16-inch alloy wheels, body-colored mirrors, and roof rails, emphasizing its playful yet functional character. This design philosophy draws from Japanese Kei car influences, adapted for European markets with two body styles to preserve the eccentric look.

Engine and Performance Breakdown

Powering the Cube is a 1,598cc four-cylinder petrol engine producing 110bhp at 6,000rpm and 153Nm of torque at 4,400rpm, paired with a five-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. Acceleration from 0-62mph takes 11.9 seconds, with a top speed of 109mph—adequate for urban and motorway duties but lacking punch on inclines.

Reviewers note the engine feels strained beyond first gear, describing it as ‘floppy’ with body roll in corners, making it unsuitable for enthusiastic driving. Fuel economy claims 42.8mpg combined, but real-world urban driving yields around 30.4mpg, with official figures at 34mpg urban and 50mpg extra-urban. CO2 emissions stand at 151g/km under Euro 5 standards.

Interior Comfort and Space Mastery

Inside, the Cube excels in practicality. Five seats accommodate passengers comfortably, with vast headroom and adjustable legroom via a sliding rear bench that trades space between cabin and boot. Boot capacity expands flexibly, mimicking supermini-MPV versatility. Features like Bluetooth, sat-nav, iPod connectivity, auto lights and wipers, reversing camera, ESP, and six airbags come standard on Kaizen models.

Storage abounds with door cup holders, compartments designed like living room nooks, and a space-saver spare tyre. The cabin feels airy, with high seating positions and excellent all-around visibility from the expansive glasshouse. Owners praise its comfort for long trips and loaded extras at a bargain used price, like £7,801 for a year-old example.

• Sliding rear bench for customizable space
• Reversing camera and auto wipers standard
• Multiple cup holders and storage cubbies
• Bluetooth and sat-nav integration
• Six airbags and ESP for safety

Handling, Ride, and Everyday Usability

On the road, the Cube prioritizes comfort over agility. Its 10.2m turning circle aids city maneuvering, and the soft suspension absorbs bumps well, though it exhibits pronounced body lean in bends. The 1,190kg kerb weight keeps it nimble, with a gross vehicle weight of 1,700kg and towing limits of 1,000kg braked/510kg unbraked.

Tyres (195/55 R16) provide decent grip, but the lack of a sixth gear hampers refinement and efficiency at higher speeds. Long-term tests highlight its reliability for daily commutes, though urban fuel figures disappoint.

Safety and Technical Specifications

Safety features include a catalytic converter, DOHC 16-valve setup, and low emissions (CO 0.3g/km, HC 0.035g/km, NOx 0.019g/km). The 52-litre fuel tank supports reasonable range, and the 10.7:1 compression ratio ensures efficient combustion. As a Micra/Note platform sibling, it inherits proven mechanicals without standout tech innovations.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Ownership Experience and Market Context

With only around 1,000 UK registrations, the Cube remains rare, but fans appreciate its charm—like a ‘baby seal’ or ‘marshmallow’ in motion. Long-term ownership reveals practicality for families, though Nissan axed it amid low sales, limiting new supply. Used Kaizen models offer value, sharing the Renault platform for cheap parts. A 1.5-litre diesel was planned but arrived late.

Buyers value its stress-free vibe, upright driving position, and living-room-like cabin, making it covetable for those prioritizing utility over dynamics.

Who Should Consider the Nissan Cube?

Ideal for urban families, first-time MPV seekers, or anyone wanting a conversation-starter with substance. Avoid if you crave power or sharp handling. Its discontinuation adds collectible appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Nissan Cube 1.6 Kaizen fuel-efficient?

Claimed 42.8mpg combined, but real-world averages hover at 30.4mpg in urban settings.

How practical is the boot space?

Flexible with sliding rear seats; expands easily for luggage or passenger legroom.

What’s the top speed and acceleration?

109mph top speed, 11.9s to 62mph—sufficient for most roads.

Are there safety features?

Yes: six airbags, ESP, reversing camera standard.

Why was it discontinued?

Low sales despite charm; Nissan shifted focus.

Final Thoughts on a Cult Classic

The Nissan Cube 1.6 Kaizen delivers joy through originality and space, proving boxy doesn’t mean boring. Perfect for practical souls embracing the unconventional.