Introduction
The box is back for another year, as the 2013 Nissan Cube returns with its combination of polarizing style and commendable versatility. Labeled a small station wagon by the EPA, the quirky Cube offers seating for 5 occupants, spacious cargo area, and high crash-test scores.
Exterior Features
Befitting its entry-level status, the 2013 Nissan Cube S model features 15-inch steel wheels, but it also offers rear privacy glass, a rear window wiper, body-color power-adjustable outside mirrors, a compact boxy body with thin horizontal taillights, and a tailgate that swings open from the passenger side, allowing for easy access when parallel parked against a curb.
The Cube SL model includes the standard amenities and is upgraded with 16-inch alloy wheels and automatic headlights.
Interior Features
Inside, 2013 Nissan Cube S and SL models offer a leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel with integrated audio controls, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats with fold-down armrests and height adjustment for the driver, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat that reclines and slides, and Bluetooth connectivity. All trim levels also feature a 6-speaker sound system, power windows, power door locks with keyless entry, and cruise control. The Cube SL adds push-button start and automatic climate control, whereas the Cube S is equipped with basic air conditioning.
Optional Features
Nissan offers one factory option, the SL Preferred package, that outfits the 2013 Cube SL with fog lights, rearview camera, navigation system with a 5-inch touch-screen display and real-time traffic information, satellite radio, USB port, and an upgraded audio system including additional speakers.
A generous assortment of dealer accessories are also available for the 2013 Nissan Cube, highlights of which include a lower body kit, interior accent lighting, LED daytime running lights, and a GPS stolen-vehicle tracking system.
Under the Hood
The 2013 Nissan Cube is equipped with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 122 horsepower and 127 lb.-ft. of torque, all of which is directed to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT). A limited-slip feature is standard on all Cube models.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy estimates for the 2013 Nissan Cube are:
- Cube with 6-speed manual transmission: 25/30/27 mpg (city/highway/combined)
- Cube with CVT: 27/31/28 mpg
Safety
The 2013 Nissan Cube's standard safety features include 6 air bags, traction control, front active head restraints, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes with front discs and rear drums, electronic brake-force distribution, and brake assist.
In tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Cube received a "Good" rating--the Institute's highest--for moderate frontal-offset crash protection; the Cube also received a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the Institute. As this preview is written, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not rated the crashworthiness of the 2013 Nissan Cube.
