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Nissan Juke 1.5 dCI Manual Acenta Premium road test

The idea of sticking a supermini inside an SUV is an odd one but Nissan’s twisted crossover strikes a good balance and successfully integrates what motorists love most about both cars. Practicality may not be a strong point but a stylish and bubbly drive is virtually guaranteed.

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Performance

For a model as visually striking as the Juke, many would expect an engine to match, and make no mistake, the Juke is without question a joy to drive. However, some could argue that taking 11.2 seconds to reach 62mpg from a standstill is quite cumbersome but they would be cruel to discount the Juke’s sizable frame and 1285kg minimum curb weight. All considered, it is actually quick off the mark and even in eco mode, building up 30mph isn’t a hassle. It’s also worth noting that the diesel front-wheel drive Juke we drove was more fuel efficient than other variants around. Switching to ‘Sport’ mode delivers a notably spunkier acceleration at the expense of a few mpgs; worth it in our view. Those looking for a nippier Juke may want to opt for the 1.6 petrol (0-60mph in 8.4secs) or wait until Nissan announce a release date for the even more bonkers 485bhp 3.8L Juke-R, capable of 60mph in 3.7 seconds.

Ride & Handling

One of the Juke’s notable features is the aforementioned driving modes. The ‘Eco’ setting seems to fit the bill for most situations and those picking this Juke for its economical credentials are unlikely to find much use for the other two modes. However, the ‘Sport’ button would be worth a jab for owners wanting to blow off some steam after a Fast & Furious marathon. Cornering is swift and easy thanks to a 10.7m turning circle; only 3cm more than the considerably more compact Citroen DS3. The 17” sport alloy wheels (included in the Premium Pack) ensure that bumps and cracks in the road are rarely a bother. The electric speed sensitive power steering means that although the Juke feels large, it certainly doesn’t handle that way. An elevated driver position retains the feeling of command that SUVs are renowned for, allowing drivers to overlook traffic and read the road ahead easily. The protruding ‘frog eyes’ headlights may divide opinion stylistically but they’re certainly novel and more than just a design quirk. The bubbly frog eyes actually serve to deflect air resistance away from the bulky and initially overwhelming side mirrors. So we’re told.

Build Quality & Reliability

Materials tend to be a good standard throughout the Juke, especially with the Premium Pack thrown in. Leather steering wheel and gearknob, premium seat fabric, and decent plastics all help to shape a quality and slightly futuristic feel, particularly the buttons and dials. There was no reliability index rating for the Juke at time of writing, however Nissan is fairly respectable when it comes to sturdy motors, ranking 16th out of 35 manufacturers. The Qashqai – probably the Juke’s closest relative – has been around longer and rarely ruffles feathers with faults, apart from a couple of recalls regarding faulty rear shock absorbers.

Safety & Security

Electronic Stability Program and seatbelt reminders for the front two seats is standard on all Jukes; two points that are sure-fire pleasers to Euro NCAP who gave the Juke the maximum five stars in 2011. Other safety features include anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist, six airbags and rear door child locks. Oh, there’s seatbelts all round too. Keeping your Juke secure is as simple as it should be with two button remote central locking while a colour camera at the rear will come in handy when reversing into tight spots.

Space & Practicality

From the outside, the Juke clearly says SUV, taking up roughly the same amount of space in the road. However, interior space bears more than a slight resemblance to a supermini. Upfront, cabin space is perfectly acceptable and comfy, although the back seats will be a squeeze for taller folk. The Juke’s most disappointing spatial shortfall though is in the boot. A removable shelf allows extra depth but it’s a stretch to consider it a true part of the boot. Families should probably sacrifice the Juke’s kooky style and go for the Qashqai if space is a priority.

Ownership & Value

Ranging from £12,795 - £19,995 on the road, the Juke isn’t exactly supermini money but neither does it compete with the pricier SUVs available and those attracted to the Juke for its style and individuality are more willing to cough up regardless. Despite its bulky stature, fuel economy is surprisingly decent. We managed 52mpg, not far from the 57.6 quoted by Nissan. The 1.6L petrol model isn’t quite as friendly to bank balances (47.1mpg or 37.2 if you opt for the petrol turbo). Sticking with the 1.5L diesel, CO2 emissions clock in at 129g/km, landing this Juke in VED band D and costing £95 to keep on the road for the first year and £52.25 thereafter. Each new Juke comes with a three year/60,000mile warranty. Nissan claim that the Juke’s residual value fare better than many B-segment models and they’re not fibbing; we spotted an identical used Juke, identical to the £17,391 model we drove for going £14,995. It’s challenging to suggest an alternative to the Juke but perhaps the closest rival would be the MINI Countryman which starts upwards of £16k.

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