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Business & Money • Automotive

Nissan Cube

The Nissan Cube is a boxy mini MPV and subcompact wagon produced by Nissan from 1998 to 2019.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Nissan Cube is a boxy mini MPV and subcompact wagon produced by Nissan from 1998 to 2019. It debuted in Japan in 1998 and became known for its asymmetrical styling and tall, roomy body shape. The vehicle was initially sold only in Japan, with international sales beginning in 2009.

History

The Cube debuted in Japan in 1998. It was sold as a Japan-market model for its first two generations, before wider international sales began with the third generation launched in 2008.

Design

The Cube’s design emphasized a boxy silhouette, large windows, and an unconventional asymmetrical look. Nissan described the model as a compact vehicle with spaciousness and convenient storage features. The vehicle is known for its cube-like, asymmetrical exterior design and tall cabin.

Markets and production

The Cube was first a Japan-only model, then sold in select export markets from 2009. North American sales ran from 2009 to 2014, and European sales ran from 2009 to 2011. The Cube was sold in Canada as part of Nissan’s North American rollout beginning in 2009, making it a recognizable niche import in the Canadian market. Production for the Japanese market continued until December 2019.

Positioning

The Cube was marketed as a practical, urban-oriented small vehicle with distinctive styling. It was positioned as a small, practical load-carrying alternative to conventional hatchbacks. Reviews and manufacturer material describe it as a compact wagon or mini MPV aimed at buyers who valued space and individuality.

Key facts

  • The Cube debuted in Japan in 1998.
  • It was sold as a Japan-market model for its first two generations, before wider international sales began with the third generation.
  • North American sales ran from 2009 to 2014, while European sales ran from 2009 to 2011.
  • The vehicle is known for its cube-like, asymmetrical exterior design and tall cabin.
  • Production for the Japanese market continued until December 2019.
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Canadian context

The Cube was sold in Canada as part of Nissan’s North American rollout beginning in 2009, making it a recognizable niche import in the Canadian market.[2]

Frequently asked questions

What is the Nissan Cube?
A boxy mini MPV/subcompact wagon made by Nissan from 1998 to 2019, known for its distinctive square shape and roomy interior.
When was the Nissan Cube sold in North America?
It was sold in North America from 2009 to 2014.
When did Nissan end Cube production?
Japanese-market production continued until December 2019.
Was the Nissan Cube sold in Europe?
Yes. It was sold in Europe from 2009 to 2011.
What kind of vehicle is the Cube?
It is generally described as a mini MPV, subcompact wagon, or tall hatchback-style vehicle.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_Cube
    Supports: Production dates, market availability, vehicle class, and overall overview.
  2. Wikipedia (German) — https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_Cube
    Supports: Japan-only early generations and North American/European introduction dates.
  3. Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. — https://www.nissannews.com/en/releases/021008-01
    Supports: Second-generation launch details, interior space concept, and early model history.
  4. Nissan USA — https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/discontinued/cube.html
    Supports: Design description, U.S. market positioning, and fuel economy claims.
  5. Cars.com — https://www.cars.com/research/nissan-cube/
    Supports: Model debut, market positioning, body style, and U.S. sales context.