Nissan Cube Z12 1.6 (110 Hp) CVT


Overall Rating

7.7 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.8 / 5
Value 3.8 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Nissan Cube:

The Nissan Cube is a mini MPV produced by carmaker Nissan between 1998 and 2019. Initially sold only in Japan, the Cube was sold in North American markets from 2009 to 2014, and in European markets from 2009 to 2011. In Japan, it was exclusive to Nissan Red Stage dealerships. It is a slightly larger load-carrying alternative to the Nissan Micra hatchback. While production for the North American market ended in 2014, the Japanese-market Cube lasted until December 2019.
The first-generation Cube was introduced in 1998. It shared the same platform as the Nissan Micra , as well as the same 1. 3 L inline-four engine. A continuously variable transmission and four-wheel drive were optional. The Cube helped narrow the gap in the Nissan lineup between the March and the Sunny....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Z12 Overview:

Nissan Cube (Z12). With 153 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8.8 l/100km). With a weight of 1333 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 12.4 s). The top speed reaches 170 km/h. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Nissan Cube Z12 generation was not tested by Euro NCAP. However, it received generally good ratings from the IIHS in the US, indicating a reasonable level of occupant protection for its class.

1.6 (110 Hp) CVT Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Smooth power delivery thanks to the CVT, but acceleration can feel less immediate and engaging compared to a manual gearbox.

Fuel Economy

Moderate fuel consumption for a petrol engine with a CVT. The CVT aims for efficiency but 7 l/100 km is average for the class.

Best Use Case: City / Mixed

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Unique and polarizing styling stands out from the crowd.
  • • Surprisingly spacious and practical interior for its compact footprint.
  • • Excellent visibility due to large windows and upright seating position.
  • • Generally reliable Nissan engines, particularly the HR-series petrol units.
  • • Comfortable ride quality, well-suited for urban environments.

Cons:

  • • Design is not for everyone, limiting its broad appeal.
  • • CVT transmissions can feel unengaging and noisy under hard acceleration.
  • • Larger petrol engines can be thirsty, especially the 1.8L.
  • • Limited engine options in some markets, particularly the diesel.
  • • Not a performance-oriented vehicle; handling is competent but unexciting.

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Z12: 2009 - 2014).

General:
Brand:Nissan
Model:Cube
Generation:Z12
Modification (Engine):1.6 (110 Hp) CVT
Start of production:January, 2010
End of production:March, 2011
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:110 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:68.8 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:153 Nm @ 4400 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:HR16DE More details about the engine HR16DE
Engine displacement:1598
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:4.3 l
Coolant:6.3 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:78 mm mm
Piston Stroke:83.6 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.7:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:8.8 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.9 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 5
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:12.4 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:12.4 sec
Maximum speed:170 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:12 kg/Hp, 83 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:8.7 kg/Nm, 115.5 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:11.8 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1325-1341
Max. weight:1730
Max. roof load:40 kg
Max load:389-405
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1563 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:260 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):750 kg
Fuel tank capacity:52 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:510 kg
Permitted towbar download:30 kg
Size:
Length:3980 mm mm [Same length.]
Width:1695 mm mm [1mm more]
Height:1670 mm mm [19mm more]
Wheelbase:2530 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1475 mm
Rear (Back) track:1480 mm
Front overhang:790 mm
Rear overhang:660 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.2 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Transmission typeAutomatic
Gearbox typeCVT
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size195/60 R15; 195/55 R16
Wheel rims size6J x 15; 6J x 16
Front suspensionIndependent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear suspensionTransverse stabilizer, Torsion

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