Nissan Cube II (Z11) photos

Unveiled in 2002, the second-generation Nissan Cube (Z11) marked a bold departure from its predecessor, establishing the unmistakable boxy design language and asymmetrical rear styling that came to define the nameplate. Built on the modern Renault-Nissan B platform shared with the K12 March, the Z11 offered significantly more interior space and structural rigidity than the original Z10. Its five-door body featured rounded picture-frame side windows and a side-hinged rear tailgate with glass wrapping smoothly around the passenger-side rear pillar to improve visibility. Expanding the model's versatility, Nissan also introduced the stretched Cube Cubic (GZ11) variant, which lengthened the wheelbase and rear overhang to accommodate a folding third-row bench for seven-passenger seating. Under the hood, early models utilized a 1.4-liter CR14DE inline-four gasoline engine mated to either a four-speed automatic transmission or an electronically controlled CVT. All-wheel-drive models adopted Nissan's innovative e-4WD system, which used an electric motor to drive the rear wheels on slippery surfaces without requiring a mechanical driveshaft. A comprehensive facelift in 2005 brought revised exterior trim, updated lighting, and the introduction of a more efficient 1.5-liter HR15DE engine paired with a smooth Xtronic CVT. Like the first generation, the Z11 was officially sold in Japan, though high overseas demand led to widespread gray-market exports across Europe, Oceania, and Russia.