2012 Nissan Cube vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

The Cube has a few small rivals, but none of them are quite as exaggerated and...cubic.

The smaller Scion xD is sized very closely with the Cube, but it doesn't have nearly as much backseat space or cargo room.

At about 157 inches long, the Nissan Cube is about the same size as the last-generation Scion xB.

But the current xB is quite a bit larger and heavier than both the Cube and the last xB, yet it doesn't feel any roomier.

The xB's heftier driving feel and better stability on the highway are positives, but its real-world gas mileage isn't as good as the Cube's.

The Kia Soul is probably the top rival, as well as the driving enthusiasts' choice; it handles well even if it doesn't have a lot of power.

One weakness for the Soul remains interior refinement.

We can see some other shoppers--if they're willing to spend a bit more--looking at the also-quirky MINI Cooper Clubman.

With its hinged rear doors, it's a 'utility coupe' of sorts, and but also makes the right statement for the fashion-conscious.