Used Nissan Juke Review (2010-2019) MK1
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
Overview
- Excellent driving position
- Plenty of technology
- Range of powerful and economical engines
- Stiff suspension sacrifices comfort
- Limited space in the rear
- Styling might not be to everyone's taste
What's the Nissan Juke like?
You either love or hate the styling of the Nissan Juke, and there seems to be little in between.
But there’s no doubting the impact of that unusual, stand-out shape, which has attracted plenty of buyers since it was launched all the way back in 2010.
That model, which I’ll concentrate on here, was replaced in 2019, but it sold so well that there are plenty of used cars at different price points to choose from.
It was one of the first smaller SUVs to come on the market when it was launched, but there's now a raft of newer designs and more up-to-date alternatives from all manufacturers to choose from.
The Juke holds its own with a good driving experience, the high driving position so many owners love, and very good standard equipment.
Engines
Petrol engines are 1.6-litre units with power ranging from 92 to 115bhp in earlier models, later changed to a turbocharged 1.2-litre and 1.6-litre with 113bhp and 187bhp respectively.
The lower powered 1.6-litre sometimes feels a little lacking in power, but 115bhp models reach 60mph from rest in 10.6 seconds and can achieve a very best of 48mpg.
The 1.2-litre Dig-T turbo has 113bhp and covers the sprint in 10.5 seconds while being rated at 49mpg, and the 1.6-litre Dig-T is the performance king as you would imagine.
It reaches 60mph in a very quick 7.7 seconds and has a government economy figure of 40mpg.
The only diesel is the well-know turbo 1.5-litre borrowed from sister company Renault, and also used in the bigger Qashqai, which is produced on the same production line in Tyne and Wear.
It has 110bhp and is capable of no less than 68mpg while accelerating to 60mph in 10.8 seconds.
Most models in the range are front-wheel drive – as is true with 99 percent of Qashqais – so the only model offered with 4WD is the 1.6-litre turbo petrol.
It comes with a standard CVT automatic gearbox and this was also available with the lower powered non-turbo 1.6-litre.
Driving Experience and Practicality
The 2WD models have great grip through the corners with excellent body control and good balance front to rear, so they feel agile and safe, just like most hatchbacks.
The only problem is that fairly stiff suspension means the ride is too firm at all speeds, so occupants feel every bump and lump in the road surface, and too often are made quite uncomfortable.
The Juke has a lovely high driving position, giving a great view to the front and sides.
Peter Hayward
Rearward vision, however, is compromised a little by the low roofline.
It’s also simple to get in and out for those in the front, and the seats are well-shaped and supportive.
The rear doors are quite narrow making access a little difficult, and they have hidden handles to make the body look like a 3-door.
Limited space in the rear, with small doors and low headroom, means that it’s not up to more recent designs of family friendly SUVs.
Equipment
Base Visia trim is not basic at all really, coming with such items as remote locking, air conditioning, electric windows and mirrors, and alloys.
Acenta adds Bluetooth, bigger alloys, selectable drive modes, cruise control, climate, and a multi-function steering wheel; while N-Connecta has a touchscreen infortainment system with sat nav, DAB radio, reversing camera, keyless entry and ignition, sports seats, and automatic lights and wipers.
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Find your Nissan Juke your way with CarStore
It's no wonder why SUVs are such a popular choice for families, with their great all-round capabilities and practicality. The Nissan Juke is a popular choice in this category, and rightly so. Endless levels of equipment, unique styling, and a lovely high driving position are just a few reasons why the Juke is a fantastic used car buy.
