THE Nissan Cube joins that select bunch of cars that provoke an instant love it or hate it reaction.

Within ten seconds of pulling on to the drive it had divided a mother from her daughter - and left a husband and father desperately trying to negotiate a middle course where none was possible.

What was a beauty to one, was a beast to the other.

So what inspired the conflagration? Well, the Cube approaches car design from a new angle - a right angle to be precise - giving it all the attributes necessary to achieve cult status in Britain.

The key words are ‘cult status' as mainstream the Cube ain't.

I tried the limited edition LDN model and when I say the interior was bedecked in suede upholstery whose official colour was listed as ‘bitter chocolate' you'll understand that the Cube is not one to sit quietly in a corner or on the fence.

It's out to make an impression, although the bizarre furry mousemat resting on top of the dashboard was perhaps overdoing things somewhat.

Nissan describes the interior as the Jacuzzi Lounge concept which gives you a feel for just how off the wall this car is.

That there is space for five is not in doubt - I've seen concert halls with less headroom than the Cube - and the cabin is a comfortable place to spend a journey.

A large glass roof gives a light and airy atmosphere. It also features a ‘shoji shade' inspired by traditional Japanese shades made of rice paper which can be drawn across the sunroof allowing in light while minimising the build up of heat on fine summer days.

Nissan hopes the Cube is the shape everyone will be talking about this year - and judging by the number of heads that were turning to follow its progress as I drove along the Japanese motor manufacturer will achieve its goal.

The Cube challenges convention on every level with the goal of providing a fun package that's unlike anything else on Britain's roads.

The rear door is side hinged in the style of a fridge which allows loading from the kerb for added convenience and safety while it's three fixed opening positions enable loading and unloading in tight spaces without any need to hold the door.

The high driving position gives a view normally the preserve of a white van man, but the cushions on the seats are flat meaning you tend to slide around in corners.

Nissan are only making 100 of the LDN models for sale in the UK to celebrate the car's launch. They come with climate control, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights.

Normal Cubes come in two trims with both offering cruise control, keyless entry, rear privacy glass a panoramic sunroof and Bluetooth  connectivity.

The more expensive Kaizen model adds climate control instead of air conditioning, a rear parking camera, a multimeadia package with satellite navigation, plus automatic lights and wipers.