2009 Nissan Cube Drops in L.A.

The 2009 Nissan Cube brings a bubbly Japanese personality to the tall-box wagon class that includes the likes of the Scion xB and Honda Element.

Sized more like the latter vehicle, the 2009 Cube bears the asymmetrical styling of the boxy Nissan that first bowed in Japan a decade ago. The new Cube is about 157 inches long on a wheelbase of 99.6 inches, and the concept is still pretty much identical to that of the xB and Element--tall wagon done funky.

Nissan calls the styling “witty,” with large windows that are supposed to frame occupants like pictures, and a big wraparound rear window. Inside, the cabin is patterned after a Jacuzzi--no joke.

The powertrain for the Cube is shared with the current Nissan Versa; a 122-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder is mated to either a continuously variable transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. The steering system is electrically operated, and the suspension is a fairly basic independent strut front with a torsion-beam rear axle.

The skylight, roof shade, and comfy seat cushions contribute to a lounge-like atmosphere. Big door openings make access easy, and the rear seats are raised theater-style. Nissan says it will seat five passengers, and that the rear bench slides and reclines for happy rear-seat passengers.

Safety equipment for the Cube includes curtain airbags and anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, and brake assist. There’s also stability control and tire pressure monitors.

Fifteen-inch wheels are standard, as are a system of detachable hook holders inside coupled to “Magic Rubber Bands” to hold down cargo. Power windows, keyless entry and a nifty set of gauges are included, too. Options include Intelligent Key with push button start; Bluetooth; satellite radio; an iPod interface; and a Rockford Fosgate speaker system. The Cube goes on sale in the spring of 2009.

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Make sure you check out our partner sites dedicated to focused news, reviews and more for Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, and the Toyota Prius. 2009 Nissan CubeEnlarge PhotoThe 2009 Nissan Cube brings a bubbly Japanese personality to the tall-box wagon class that includes the likes of the Scion xB and Honda Element. Sized more like the latter vehicle, the 2009 Cube bears the asymmetrical styling of the boxy Nissan that first bowed in Japan a decade ago. The new Cube is about 157 inches long on a wheelbase of 99.6 inches, and the concept is still pretty much identical to that of the xB and Element--tall wagon done funky. Nissan calls the styling “witty,” with large windows that are supposed to frame occupants like pictures, and a big wraparound rear window. Inside, the cabin is patterned after a Jacuzzi--no joke. The powertrain for the Cube is shared with the current Nissan Versa; a 122-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder is mated to either a continuously variable transmission or a six-speed manual gearbox. The steering system is electrically operated, and the suspension is a fairly basic independent strut front with a torsion-beam rear axle. The skylight, roof shade, and comfy seat cushions contribute to a lounge-like atmosphere. Big door openings make access easy, and the rear seats are raised theater-style. Nissan says it will seat five passengers, and that the rear bench slides and reclines for happy rear-seat passengers. Safety equipment for the Cube includes curtain airbags and anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, and brake assist. There’s also stability control and tire pressure monitors. Fifteen-inch wheels are standard, as are a system of detachable hook holders inside coupled to “Magic Rubber Bands” to hold down cargo. Power windows, keyless entry and a nifty set of gauges are included, too. Options include Intelligent Key with push button start; Bluetooth; satellite radio; an iPod interface; and a Rockford Fosgate speaker system. The Cube goes on sale in the spring of 2009. MORE PHOTOS: 2009 Nissan Cube -- Make sure you check out our partner sites dedicated to focused news, reviews and more for Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Honda, and the Toyota Prius.