STEPPING into the Nissan Cube for the first time was a bit like going home to mother's for tea.

A strange comment you might think but one that is prompted by the cosy miniature deep pile circular hearthrug on top of the dash.

This quirky optional extra was the first thing I noticed on entering the car and its purpose of course is to offer a grippy surface for such things as spectacles and keys. And it works!

But this is only one aspect of the strange but trendy world of the Cube which has become a cult vehicle in Japan where it was launched seven years ago.

Now it is in Britain and its angular design is turning heads . So it's the UK's chance to discover what the fuss is all about, as the Cube moves from being a domestic market special to becoming a global phenomenon.

This car certainly lives up to its name being a ute, perfectly formed cube with a cheeky little bonnet. But it is far from being just a fashion statement as a drive in it can confirm.

Under the bonnet was a very silent 1.6 petrol engine which can achieve 109mph, accelerate to 62mph in 11.3 seconds and give an enviable combined economy figure of 42.8mpg. A diesel is also available.

For such an angular icon it handles extremely well with little roll on corners and the engine is so silent at tickover you sometimes wonder if it is still running.

The aim was to create an urban superstar which would be a premium package without the baggage and this has been achieved by means of a remarkably spacious lounge interior.

The design has certainly caught on because the London Design Museum has already named it as one of the 50 cars that changed the world, a fact reflected in the Cube's strong residual values.

The price of the vehicle was £14,000 which includes an excellent raft of goodies including alloy wheels, cruise control and much more.

Nissan turned its back on the average look-alike model and remodelled everyday driving into something classy, and very practical which is packed with good ideas.

These include a unique asymmetric rear end styling which has a practical purpose, too. By wrapping the rear window around the nearside back pillar, rearward visibility is greatly enhanced, to make parallel parking and lane changing that much easier and safer.

The rear door is side hinged, refrigerator-style, allowing loading from the kerb for added convenience and safety, while its three fixed opening positions enable loading and unloading in tight spaces without any need to hold the door. Boot space is limited but there have to be some concessions.

Inside, Cube there is plenty of space for five and its curve-themed design is characterised by a subtle wave formation in the shape of the instrument panel, the glass roof, door panels and seat shapes.

A large triple-layered glass roof fitted as standard gives a light and airy atmosphere throughout the cabin. As well as a traditional blind to prevent heat build up on sunny days, it has a ‘shoji shade', inspired by traditional Japanese shades made of rice paper, which can be drawn across the sunroof, allowing light while minimising heat build up. All in all it it a very relaxing experience.