A few years ago, when the JDM box cars were all the rage, Nissan introduced the Cube subcompact to the U.S. market. Much like its rival Scion xB, the Cube has been far surpassed in terms of sales and popularity by the Kia Soul, with its less overtly weird styling, and strong value equation. But the Cube soldiers on, largely unchanged since its 2009 debut. The biggest change for the 2014 model year is the addition of Caspian Sea blue as a color, replacing 2013’s Bitter Chocolate. Starting at $17,570 for a Nissan Cube 1.8 S with a six-speed manual. The CVT automatic adds an even $1000 for $18,570, and the top-line SL CVT goes for $19,670. If you want a loaded Cube, check the box for the SL Preferred Package, which includes fog lights, a touchscreen navigation system, rearview camera, an upgraded audio system with a Rockford Fosgate 8-inch subwoofer, and a USB port. As with the 2013 model, the sole engine option on the Cube is a 1.8-liter, 122-hp four-cylinder engine. The Cube gets 27 mpg city and 31 mpg highway with the CVT, and 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway with the six-speed manual.

Coast Nissan

12100 Los Osos Valley Road

San Luis Obispo, California 93405

Phone: 888-245-3836

Website: www.coastnissan.com