The sales success of Nissan’s quirky Cube ultimately will determine whether the old adage “hip to be square” bears out. But based on initial pricing, it will be affordable.
The 2009 Cube is launching in May with a starting price of $14,685, including shipping charges. The base package comes with a 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder engine rated at 122 hp and a six-speed manual transmission.
At the other end of the spectrum is the factory-customized Krom model, which is $20,065. It includes a three-bar grille, integrated front and rear fascia and 16-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the cabin gets a leather steering wheel, titanium and aluminum trims and a six-speaker sound system with a Rockford Fosgate subwoofer.
The Cube is the latest in a line of boxy, offbeat vehicles aimed at younger consumers. Nissan is hawking it as being highly customizable, with up to 40 different accessories, including a shag-carpet insert for the dash, aero kits and a 20-color interior illumination package.
The other main trim levels are:
-- The S, which adds body-colored mirrors, cruise control and a cargo cover for $15,385 with a manual gear box. With a CVT, the S is $16,385.
-- The SL, which offers a standard CVT, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, automatic headlights and temperature control, an iPod interface and a six-speaker system for $17,485.
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