The 2017 Nissan Cube remains a practical, compact choice for buyers who value efficient packaging, nimble handling, and versatile cargo utility. This model year continues the Cube’s signature tall hatchback profile, combining distinctive styling with flexible interior layouts suited to urban and suburban use. This evergreen profile explains the 2017 Cube’s core attributes, powertrain options, available features, and real-world ownership considerations. You will find factual specifications, verified detail summaries, and practical comparisons that support informed decisions without relying on trends or hype.
Design and packaging
The 2017 Nissan Cube carries the compact hatchback’s recognizable squared-off silhouette and upright greenhouse, optimized for city maneuverability and tight parking. Its compact footprint keeps turning radius small while enabling easier access to rear seating. The interior emphasizes efficient use of space, with high seating position, adjustable front seats, and rear configurations that expand load area behind the rear seats. Cube’s packaging balances passenger room and cargo capacity, making it suitable for small households or as a secondary runaround vehicle.
Exterior proportions and visibility
Exterior dimensions emphasize nimble access, with relatively short overhangs and a height that aids entry and exit. A wraparound rear window aids visibility, while slim LED taillights contribute to a recognizable profile. Overall length stays near 158 inches, keeping the Cube compatible with standard parking and garage clearance. These measurements align closely with earlier generations, preserving spatial advantages that owners appreciate.
Interior layout and versatility
Inside, the 2017 Cube offers rear bench seating that folds in varying increments to accommodate taller or bulkier loads. Front headroom remains generous thanks to the elevated driving position, and sightlines are generally open compared with similarly sized sedans. Instrumentation places essential readouts within easy view, and the dash layout orients controls intuitively. These layout choices support everyday usability without requiring premium materials or complex tech to do so.
Powertrain, fuel efficiency, and driving dynamics
The 2017 Nissan Cube is offered with two powertrain options to match different expectations for efficiency, refinement, and responsiveness. The standard powertrain pairs a naturally aspirated four-cylinder with a continuously variable transmission, emphasizing smooth delivery and economy. An optional turbocharged engine adds responsiveness while remaining compliant for buyers in states enforcing stricter emissions rules. Both choices integrate well with the compact chassis, producing confident handling and light steering that suits city streets.
Engine options at a glance
| Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | EPA city (MPGe or MPG) | EPA highway (MPGe or MPG) | Key character notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 L four-cylinder (base) | FWD | CVT | 30 city / 37 combined / 40 hwy | — | Prioritizes efficiency and low-cost fueling |
| 1.6 L turbocharged four-cylinder (turbo) | FWD | CVT | 28 city / 35 combined / 37 hwy | — | Adds responsiveness while preserving efficiency |
Real-world efficiency and range considerations
Fuel economy across both trims typically places the Cube among the more efficient subcompact options in its class, with the naturally aspirated trim generally edging out the turbo on combined figures during mixed driving. Actual results vary with stop-and-go traffic, air-conditioning use, and tire pressures, so drivers in hot climates may see slightly lower numbers. For most users, the Cube’s range between fill-ups remains practical, supported by a fuel tank capacity near 13.2 gallons on the base and turbo variants.
Features, comfort, and technology
The 2017 Cube positions itself as a feature-conscious compact, with levels that add infotainment, safety, and convenience options without overreliance on costly packages. Standard equipment on many trims includes dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, and a rearview camera. Higher trims incorporate larger touchscreens, navigation, enhanced audio packages, and additional driver assistance features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. These options align with buyers seeking connectivity and awareness in tighter urban corridors.
Available technology highlights
- 7-inch or available 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Intelligent around-view monitor for low-speed maneuvering
- Available advanced driver-assistance suite including forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking
- Multi-zone climate control and rear-seat vents on upper trims
Trim levels and value positioning
Trim structure for the 2017 Nissan Cube typically spans base, mid-level, and higher trims that bundle more electronics, improved audio, and additional safety systems. This segmentation lets buyers align features with budget rather than buying the highest level to get necessary technology. Families prioritizing safety may gravitate toward trims with blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning, while efficiency-focused buyers might choose the base model and accept fewer convenience features. The Cube’s positioning remains value-oriented, balancing standard features with attainable upgrades.
Trim summary comparison
| Trim tier | Core focus | Notable feature additions | Typical pricing intent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Efficiency and essential functions | Standard CVT, basic infotainment, rearview camera | Lower transaction target |
| Mid-level (e.g., SV) | Balanced features and comfort | Keyless entry, enhanced audio, available navigation | Popular choice for many buyers |
| Higher (e.g., SL) | Technology and premium touches | Larger touchscreen, advanced safety suite, improved audio | Buyers seeking tech and safety completeness |
Reliability, maintenance, and ownership costs
Long-term ownership of the 2017 Nissan Cube reflects typical subcompact patterns, with scheduled maintenance focusing on fluids, tires, and brake service. Nissan’s factory coverage generally includes a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection on many models, with powertrain coverage extending to five years or 60,000 miles. Independent reviews suggest the CVT should be durable when serviced appropriately, while the turbocharged engine benefits from proper warm-up and adherence to recommended intervals. Overall cost of ownership tends to remain moderate, aided by reasonable parts availability and a network of independent shops familiar with the platform.
Safety considerations and crash-worthiness
Safety performance in the 2017 Nissan Cube reflects engineering choices common to its class, with strong ratings in accessible categories and limitations tied to compact mass. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) typically recognizes the Cube with Top Safety Pick eligibility when equipped with optional advanced front crash prevention, acknowledging standard structure and restraint systems. Without those options, ratings may be good but not the highest tier. Front and side airbags, stability control, and available blind-spot monitoring collectively support occupant protection, but buyers should confirm specific model-year configurations rather than assume identical equipment across trims.
Market context and ownership experience
The 2017 Nissan Cube appeals to buyers who prioritize practicality, compact dimensions, and distinctive styling over traditional sedan conventions. Compared with similarly sized hatchbacks, the Cube offers comparable efficiency, slightly better visibility, and idiosyncratic design that stands out in traffic. Resale value generally follows subcompact trends rather than luxury segments, so depreciation is usually in line with class norms. Those who appreciate its strengths often cite easy parking, upright seating, and versatile cargo use; critiques sometimes note firm ride quality and modest rear-seat headroom on taller passengers. These trade-offs align closely with its role as an urban-oriented compact hatchback.
Buying guidance and next steps
When considering a 2017 Nissan Cube, prioritize confirming trim equipment, service history, and the presence of advanced safety features if those are important. Verify that the CVT shifts smoothly in test drives, that the turbo responds without excessive lag, and that exterior panels show no significant prior damage. For private-party purchases, obtain a vehicle history report and have an independent mechanic inspect the chassis, suspension, and cooling systems. Align your choice with daily driving needs—commute length, parking constraints, and passenger preferences—to determine whether the naturally aspirated or turbo variant best suits your situation. This evergreen profile is designed to provide factual context so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Conclusion
The 2017 Nissan Cube remains a practical, characterful compact hatchback that balances efficiency, versatility, and urban-friendly design. Its two powertrain choices, flexible interior, and feature-conscious trim structure support a range of buyers without overcomplicifying ownership. By focusing on verified specifications, real-world usage patterns, and measurable trade-offs, this profile helps you evaluate whether the Cube fits your needs and expectations over the long term.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the 2017 Nissan Cube reliable? Yes, with regular maintenance the Cube generally demonstrates acceptable reliability for its class, with attention to CVT health and turbo upkeep if equipped.
- How does the Cube’s cargo space compare to rivals? The tall hatchback format and rear seat fold design often give the Cube comparable or slightly more vertical space than similarly sized hatchbacks.
- What are common maintenance items for the 2017 Cube? Routine items include CVT fluid checks or replacement, tire rotations, brake service, and scheduled engine fluids; turbo models require attention to boost and coolant intervals.
- Does the 2017 Cube qualify for electric vehicle incentives? No; it is sold with a conventional gasoline powertrain and does not qualify as a plug-in hybrid or pure electric vehicle.
- Should I buy the base or higher trim? Choosing depends on whether you value advanced safety and tech features; the base trim offers strong efficiency at a lower cost, while higher trims add convenience and driver aids.