The Nissan Juke has played a significant role in the growth of the compact crossover hatchback segment in Europe. Since its launch in 2011, the Juke has faced increasing competition, with more than 40 rivals now available in the market. While the second-generation Juke, launched in 2020, has not achieved the same commercial success as its predecessor, Nissan is hoping that the recent mid-life facelift will improve its fortunes.
The second-generation Juke is based on the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s CMF-B platform and offers a choice between petrol and hybrid powertrains. The exterior design of the Juke has remained largely unchanged because customer research has shown that design is a key factor in purchasing decisions. Instead, Nissan has focused on refining and improving the interior to compete with rivals like the Ford Puma and Skoda Kamiq.
In terms of performance, the Juke offers a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine with 112bhp and a hybrid powertrain with a combined output of 141bhp. However, real-world testing has shown that the petrol engine’s throttle response can be slow at low speeds, especially when paired with the dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The hybrid powertrain also lacks responsiveness, particularly during spirited driving on winding roads.
The Juke’s interior design strikes a balance between visual character and practicality. The cabin features curved, bulbous surfaces and a 12.3-inch digital info display, which can be customized to show different dials and efficiency figures. The materials used in the interior are of varying quality, with some trims featuring upmarket PVC and neat seat stitching. Cabin space is average for the segment, but the boot capacity is respectable at 422 litres.
When it comes to driving dynamics, the Juke offers a comfortable ride and agile handling compared to its rivals. The steering is medium weighted, and the suspension is slightly firmer, providing good body control. However, the Juke’s ride can be noisy on coarse surfaces, and the larger wheels negatively affect ride isolation. Seat comfort is good, although not on par with the Nissan Qashqai.
In terms of running costs, the Juke offers competitive pricing, undercutting rivals like the Ford Puma and Skoda Kamiq. The petrol engine’s fuel economy is unremarkable, while the hybrid powertrain provides decent running economy but is not great value for private buyers. The Juke’s residual values are average, affecting PCP finance and lease deals.
Overall, the Nissan Juke remains a compelling option in the compact crossover hatchback segment. Its distinctive design, comfortable ride, and sporty handling set it apart from its rivals. While it may have some shortcomings in terms of engine responsiveness and hybrid value for money, the Juke’s unique style and overall appeal make it a solid choice for buyers looking for a small car that stands out from the crowd.
