Performance: You can now choose from two engine options with the Juke. The standard 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder pumps out 188hp and is all the engine you will need with this crossover. The power hungry will want to venture to the Nismo RS which takes the same 1.6 turbo engine and pushes the total output to 215hp.
Ride & Handling: The Juke's tall stance doesn't take away its agility. The go-kart like character will put a smile on your face. Stiff suspension keeps body movement firmly in check, while steering is eager and offers plenty of feedback. The price for such a taut feel is a hard ride, but the Juke stops short of being uncomfortable. The Nismo is best avoided if you don’t want an overly firm ride as the suspension has been stiffened for even tauter handling than the standard suspension configuration.
Refinement: The engines are smooth and refined; you'll have to get used to a bit of turbo whine. Given the car's bluff front, there's not much wind noise. However, road noise is an issue.
Behind the wheel: The interior is inspired by the fuel tank of a motorbike. Many of the controls are clearly labelled and easy to use. The steering wheel doesn't adjust for reach, making the driving position for some drivers a bit uncomfortable. Rearward visibility is poor due to a small windscreen.
Space & Practicality: There's plenty of space up front, but rear passengers will feel cramped in the back. The slopping roofline means there really isn't much headroom for taller passengers. The rear door opening is narrow to climb through, and the boot is quite small. There are useful storage wells under the floor and the rear seats fold down flat.
Equipment: All Jukes come well equipped, even the base model comes with Bluetooth, keyless entry, air-conditioning, side curtian airbags and anti-lock brakes. You'll have to step up to the higher trims to get all-wheel-drive, keyless start and leather seats.
Buying & Owning: The Juke seems like a reasonable value. All but the base trim offers all-wheel-drive, the top of the range offers it as standard kit. Modest discounts are available, and resale values are expected to be strong. Fuel economy is decent too.
Quality & Reliability: There's no doubt the Juke is a distinct looking vehicle, but its a shame some of the plastics used in the interior are a bit cheap on feel. Still, there's little doubt that it will prove hardy. In the JD Power customer satisfaction survey, Nissan finished in the top half of the manufacturers' table.
Safety & Security: Remote central locking with anti-hijack feature is standard on every Juke. There's a long list of safety equipment such as ESP, six airbags and brake assist. The top of the range offers all-wheel-drive that splits torque between the front and rear wheels (and side to side) to help keep the car stable and reduce understeer when cornering.
The Juke is a distinct looking vehicle. Probably one of the most bold vehicles in Nissan's line-up. Headroom for rear passengers is limited, and the boot isn't very large. This all makes the Juke look a bit pointless, but then you'll be overlooking the actual point of the car. It's a small uban crossover that offers distinct styling, decent fuel economy and makes dealing with urban cities a breeze.
Likes: The new turbo engine adds more zest to the range. It handles well and has a decently comfortable suspension. The Nismo editions add the extra sporty looks that were missing.
Dislikes: Firm ride, slopping roof means limited space for rear passengers, poor rearward visbility, bold styling may not appeal to all.
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