The looks of the Nissan Cube may be controversial, but its value and practicality are not. Fuel efficient and fun to drive, the Cube holds a lot of people and cargo in an affordable package. It's zippy in traffic, and it can be easily customized. All of these traits make it a fine choice for young buyers or as the second car for a family.

The 2011 Nissan Cube gets only minor changes, mostly to equipment in packages. A new SD-card based navigation system with a five-inch color touchscreen is available with XM NavTraffic and a USB port.