What is it?
British drivers love the Nissan Juke. Since it was introduced in 2010, almost 300,000 units have been delivered to customers on our shores and it’s not likely to slow down with this all-new model.
After it originally joined the B-segment SUV market with just one other rival, the Juke now has more than 20 competitors. But Nissan is hoping that the popularity of the Juke continues alongside the Qashqai.
What’s new?
Nissan has revamped the design so it’s not as bulbous, but it still stands out. It’s larger than before too, with Nissan attempting to rectify the previous variant’s much-criticised lack of space.
Although the first version did come with some technology, this new option has the firm’s latest ProPilot assistance systems seen on the Leaf and Qashqai, as well as an updated infotainment set-up, digital instrument screen and semi-autonomous driving functions.
What’s under the bonnet?
Nissan only offers the 1.0-litre DIG-T turbocharged petrol engine, which develops 116bhp and 200Nm of torque when in its self-dictated ‘overboost’ mode.
It’s offered with the choice of a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission
– with the manual giving a quicker 0-60mph
time of 10.2 seconds compared with 10.9
seconds for the DCT.
Having driven both, we found the manual to be the better option for a more involving driving experience.
Although it wasn’t exactly quick with either ’box, the shift of the manual was rather short and it felt smooth.
But if you’re after a more relaxed drive, the DCT will do just fine – with its selectable Sport mode improving the engine’s responsiveness.
With the manual on board, Nissan claims the Juke will return 45.6-47.9mpg on the WLTP cycle, along with emissions of 112-118g/km CO2.
The DCT is slightly worse off, with returns of 44.1-46.3mpg and 110-116g/km CO2.
What’s it like to drive?
This new Juke is much improved in terms of driving but still isn’t the most exciting crossover to drive. It has rather weighty steering, and although there isn’t a lot of feel, it’s easy to place on the road. That heavier steering doesn’t affect the Juke’s characteristics around town, as you’re able to navigate tighter streets with ease.
Visibility is good, while the overall experience and refinement is up to a decent level as well – although wind noise does enter the cabin at higher speeds.
The top-end Tekna+ model we tried sported 19-inch alloy wheels, and they manage not to compromise comfort for style too much – something many drivers will appreciate.
How does it look?
The Juke was introduced as something outlandish; something to stand out from the crowd. Well, depending on who you talked to, it either did that very well or was one of the ugliest cars around.
This new version should be less divisive, although there are some aspects that are similar to before. The coupe-like roofline remains, while the separate LED daytime running lights and headlights are also similar to before – although their designs are much changed.
The face is now in line with the rest of the Nissan range, while the back of the car is rather simple in comparison. The wheel designs chosen are also quite cool, with the 19-inch models on the Tekna+ a particular highlight.
What’s it like inside?
One of the main issues with the last Juke was its interior space. Nissan has made a concerted effort to changing that here, and on the whole, it has, with the help of a longer wheelbase.
Nissan has also improved the overall storage space, with the boot opening much wider and the space itself much bigger at 422 litres – 20 per cent larger than before. The quality of the finish is much improved as well, with the top-end Tekna+ coming with plenty of leather and Alcantara for premium edge.
What’s the spec like?
The Juke comes handsomely equipped for its £17,395 starting price. It features LED exterior lighting, air conditioning, a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control with speed limiter, intelligent emergency braking, traffic sign recognition, high beam assist, plus intelligent lane warning and intervention.
With the top-spec Tekna+, buyers get the full choice of customisation options for both the interior and exterior. There’s the choice of two-tone dashboards alongside the dual-colour bodywork, with both having plenty to choose from, too.
This top-end model also features 19-inch alloy wheels, an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, seven-inch TFT display and rear-view camera – with most of those added further down the trim levels.
What do the press think?
Top Gear said the new Juke is ‘definitely a vast improvement’ while Auto Express said it was ‘much more practical’ and ‘should offer all the space a small family might need’.
What do we think?
Following on from the success of the first generation of the Juke, Nissan has set itself up for more of the same with this new version.
Although it may not be the most exciting choice of car, this Juke manages to be nicer to drive, better in quality and more spacious.
On the whole, Nissan can be proud that this Europe-focused model definitely holds a candle to its closest market rivals.
