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August 1, 2026Short & citedBlog
Civic Viewpoint.
A quiet encyclopedia with a personal desk
Kept by Bryan McAllister — short guides, clear facts, and the Canadian angle when it matters.
Money & Work • Automotive

Nissan Cube

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

Updated August 1, 20261 min readCited sources

The Nissan Cube is a boxy mini MPV and subcompact wagon produced by Nissan from 1998 to 2019. Known for its asymmetrical styling and tall, roomy body, it was sold in Japan, North America, and Europe.

What it is

The Cube is a 5-door wagon with a cube-like silhouette and large windows. It was designed as a practical, urban-oriented small vehicle that offered more interior space than a conventional hatchback. Nissan marketed it as a compact load-carrier with distinctive looks.

Key details

The Cube debuted in Japan in 1998 and went through three generations. International sales began with the third generation in 2009, reaching North America (2009–2014) and Europe (2009–2011). Japanese production continued until December 2019.

Why it matters

The Cube stood out for its unconventional design and practicality, making it a recognizable niche import in markets like Canada. It offered buyers a roomy, individualistic alternative to mainstream subcompacts such as the Toyota Yaris or Honda Fit.

In short

  • Produced from 1998 to 2019, with international sales from 2009.
  • Known for boxy, asymmetrical styling and tall cabin.
  • Sold in Canada as part of North American rollout starting 2009.
  • Positioned as a practical, urban mini MPV.
Canadian angle

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]

Quick 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.

Sources

  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.