The Nissan Cube: Design of the Year - We Investigate

Is it beautiful? Well not quite! Is it elegant? Well, Oh boy! Is it at least original? Well, yes in the U.S market but it is in its third offering worldwide!

Then what does the Nissan Cube's looks have to offer? Well, just a friendly appeal! Of the Cube, Automobile Magazine says, "You'll probably start to smile as you approach the Cube. It's funny-looking, yes, but in an especially agreeable way." When something agrees with you, it must be good indeed!

The Cube came late to the 'square-box" vehicle category and it competes with the Honda Element and Scion xB. Why might the Cube be the vehicle design of the year? Well, in one word - Charm! You know, just like people who are just fun to be around. The Cube just appeals (I dove past one on I-79 the other day and found the Cube indeed has it in person)!

It has a tightly buttoned-down chin that does not look the least bit aggressive. Each side window is set in from the outer surface and nicely chamfered to draw your attention. And of course the real charm closer is its startling (funky) asymmetrical rear side-hinged door that invites cargo. No high loading height with the Cube but just swing its door open, put the cargo in, and away you go!

It is surprising that the Cube is so small on the outside yet offers seemingly so much space on the inside. The amount of headroom, legroom, and shoulder room make its occupants feel like they are in a limo rather than an economy box.

Fen Shui is an ancient Chinese conceit who knows the art of arraigning interior spaces to promote health, harmony, and general well being. Concerning the Cube, one must wonder if Nissan consulted an expert in the art as its interior provides a sense of well being that remains as the miles go past. For example, the wave in the
instrument panel is repeated in the carpet design. The dome light radiates concentric rings that are present in the door speakers. Furthermore, the shape and feel of the vehicle's buttons and switches are highly pleasing to operate. At all adds up to the driver and passengers feeling content as the Cube charms.

This vehicle has a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that is well suited to the Cube's mission which is practical, no nonsense transportation for unban use. Cruising at 75 miles per hour is available all day long and wind noise is quite low for a cubed shaped vehicle.

The 2010 Nissan Cube - funky, fun, futuristic and a real charmer indeed. Prices start at $13,990!

Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price..." He welcomes your comments or car questions at his auto web site: www.DriveTheBestBook.com . Follow Kyle on Facebookand Twitter.