Ford
Focus
Nissan
Cube
Ford Focus vs Nissan Cube: 2022 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Ford Focus comes out ahead of the Nissan Cube on fuel economy and power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Focus
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by transmission type and generation. For models equipped with the manual transmission, owner feedback is overwhelmingly positive, describing them as reliable, fun to drive, economical, and a great value. This is particularly true for the final generation (2012-2018) with a manual gearbox.
Best version to buy
Manual Transmission Models (any trim, 2012-2018 generation): There is a very strong, repeated consensus that the manual transmission is the defining factor for a good ownership experience. The manual is described as "rock solid," "easy to drive," and the solution to avoiding the pervasive automatic transmission problems.
Known issues
- ⚠Powershift Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission (DCT) failures: Described as a fundamental design flaw leading to shuddering, slipping, and complete failure, often requiring multiple replacements under warranty and significant out-of-pocket…
- ⚠1.0L EcoBoost engine reliability concerns: Potential for major failure ("Ecoboom"), though proper maintenance is seen as a mitigating factor. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Recall-related items: Including purge canister valve and door latch mechanisms, which were addressed by manufacturer recalls. Frequency: recurrent.
Cube
Overall
Sentiment is polarized, with a strong divide between owners who cherish the vehicle's unique character and practicality and those who have faced significant mechanical failures. A dedicated group of owners expresses deep affection for the Cube's boxy design, excellent visibility, easy ingress/egress, surprising interior space, and utility as an economical urban commuter. Many report trouble-free ownership with high mileage (over 150,000 miles/241,000 km).
Best version to buy
Manual Transmission Models (any year): Unequivocally recommended over CVT-equipped models due to pervasive and severe reliability concerns with the automatic transmission. The 6-speed manual is specifically praised for making the car feel more responsive ("a blast") and for eliminating the primary failure point.
Known issues
- ⚠CVT Transmission Failure: Complete failure requiring replacement, slippage, whining noise, lack of acceleration, error codes. Very frequent concern, cited as the model's primary weakness. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠General CVT Reliability Concerns: Anxiety over long-term durability, reports of shops refusing service, advice against fluid changes by some mechanics. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Rear Door Latch Failure: A known defect causing the rear hatch door to become inoperable; repair cost estimated around $400+. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Ford Focus is the better choice for most buyers.
It has better fuel economy on its best-equipped version than the Nissan Cube, based on the data above. If power matters more to you than running costs, the Nissan Cube is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Ford Focus or the Nissan Cube?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ford Focus and the Nissan Cube. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ford Focus or the Nissan Cube?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Ford Focus is classed as a Hatchback, the Nissan Cube as a Station wagon, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ford Focus or the Nissan Cube?
The Ford Focus is more fuel-efficient on paper: 7.7 L/100km combined versus 8.4 L/100km for the Nissan Cube, based on the best-equipped catalogued version of each.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Ford Focus or the Nissan Cube?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Nissan Cube than the Ford Focus. See the known issues comparison above.