In official Euro NCAP crash tests, the Cube scored four stars out of five – a good result for a car this size, especially as it was tested under the organisation’s tougher regime. Introduced in 2009, this is one overall rating that covers adult occupant safety as well as child and pedestrian protection, plus a rear impact whiplash test. In the crash simulation the Cube was let down its child occupant protection during the front impact test, but all models come with electronic stability control as standard plus six airbags.

With rear passenger room maximised, the Cube has about as much space in the boot as a typical small car. However, like the Nissan Note, the rear seats can slide forward to vary the amount of luggage volume. The Cube’s boot is accessed through a side-hinged door rather than a hatchback. Nissan says it’s easier for loading if parked close to another vehicle when the door is only partially open compared with a conventional tailgate.

There are the typical cup holders and storage areas in the cabin, but also additional innovative ways of keeping things together. For example, customers can choose elastic bands to fit in the cut-outs of the door pulls to keep small items – MP3 players or perhaps car park tickets – stowed but readily available.