New Nissan JUKE Hybrid – A Coupé-Crossover of Distinction.
Nissan JUKE Hybrid – A Coupé-Crossover of Distinction.
Nissan’s rapid shift towards electrification continues to gather momentum with the launch of the new JUKE Hybrid. The new JUKE Hybrid is the next chapter in Nissan’s ongoing charge towards an electrified future, joining the all-new ARIYA 100% electric crossover, the new Qashqai e-POWER Hybrid and the new X-Trail e-POWER Hybrid. The JUKE Hybrid starts in 100% electric mode and can reach speeds of up to 55km/h in pure EV mode thanks to an advanced multi-modal hybrid powertrain which prioritises fuel efficiency, responsiveness and a harmonious drive.
New Advanced Platform.
Nissan’s second-generation JUKE is built on a new Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance model platform. Whereas the previous Juke had a specially adapted chassis used only by Nissan, and was available with a choice of petrol and diesel engines, the new JUKE is available with a sole petrol unit or a new petrol/electric self-charging hybrid, with Nissan having ruled out diesel power for the car entirely. The exterior design of the JUKE is sporty and attractive, with a mix of sharp creases and soft curves ensuring it retains the distinctiveness that buyers of the first-generation JUKE loved so much. However, it now has Y-shaped LED daytime running lights and Nissan’s distinctive V-motion grille to keep it in line with other models in the Nissan range. The new JUKE’s interior looks and feels great, and its infotainment system is much improved over the previous model’s. Sleek new Monoform seats with a single-piece backrest – similar to those found in many sports cars – add a real sense of sportiness to the cabin. The boot space behind the rear seats in the JUKE Hybrid is 354-litres, but with the rear seats folded, boot space remains the best in class with 1,237 litres on offer, while rear knee room remains unchanged at 553mm. As with the 100% electric Nissan LEAF and ARIYA, the JUKE Hybrid is equipped with Nissan’s e-pedal, enabling the driver to launch, accelerate and decelerate using only the accelerator. A 7” combimeter screen displays visual reminders when e-Pedal and EV mode are activated. It also shows all the different energy flows in a simple and clear animation, maximising driver understanding of the how the system is operating.
Impressive Specification Levels.
JUKE Hybrid buyers can choose from SV Premium, N-Design and SVE specification levels, and they can also opt for a contrasting roof colour to suit their individual style. Nissan has also introduced all-new two-tone 17” alloy wheels as well as the Nissan Ariya-derived two-tone 19” aero wheels for visual impact and efficiency. Standard features across all trim levels include six airbags, Emergency E-Call System, ISOFIX, Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Hill Start Assist, Intelligent Lane Intervention & Warning, air-conditioning, idle stop/start, DAB radio, Bluetooth with USB & AUX, 4.2” colour TFT screen, multi-function steering wheel with height adjustment, front & rear electric windows, 60/40 split-folding rear seats, front & rear LED lights with daytime running-lights, LED front & rear foglamps, rear privacy glass, rear parking sensors, Nissan Connect Services, front armrest, 3 Drive Modes (Normal, Eco & Sport), and electric mirrors, along with many more comfort and convenience features. Moving up the trim levels will add even more in the line of desirable standard equipment, such as stylish alloy wheels (up to 19”) and a suite of advanced safety systems and high-tech features.
Test Car.
My range-topping JUKE Hybrid SVE test car was finished in two-tone Pearl White pearlescent paint with a metallic black roof and door mirror covers for maximum visual impact. The combination of sharp lines, dramatic lights and intriguing design accents provide the new JUKE with a thoroughly modern and distinctive look, while sleek aerodynamics enable the new Juke to glide through the air for greater fuel efficiency and ultimate refinement on the move. The powerplant in the JUKE Hybrid consists of a 1.6-litre 94bhp petrol unit in union with a 48bhp electric motor for a total output of 142bhp. Gentle accelerator inputs enable the car to get up to speed smoothly without consuming any fuel, and when more acceleration is called for, the petrol engine supports the electric motor, driving the wheels in the process. The car can accelerate to 100km/h from a standing start in 10.1-seconds, on its way to a top speed of 185km/h (where permitted). Nissan’s claimed fuel efficiency figure of 5.1-litres of fuel for every 100km driven on a WLTP combined driving cycle is very much achievable, and annual road tax for my test car is just €210. As a result, the JUKE Hybrid should prove itself to be a sound financial proposition in terms of its overall running costs. The new powertrain has been specially designed to complement the already agile, dynamic personality which has proved so popular with customers of the internal combustion engine (ICE) version of the Nissan JUKE. Where traditional hybrids offer an uninspiring experience because of the complex amalgamation of ICE and battery power, the JUKE Hybrid’s intelligent drive system has been tuned to maximise the amount of time the car spends in EV mode. While the system will automatically maximise EV usage, the JUKE Hybrid is also equipped with a dedicated EV mode switch which can be used when drivers do not want to leave the engine running. The new Juke has more athleticism and handling poise than the average compact crossover, retaining the zippy dynamic appeal that helped to mark out the original Juke as a car intended for more energetic and youthful drivers – as well as older ones. A new-found level of ride sophistication makes the new Juke more comfortable and pleasant than its predecessor too. Excellent grip and progressive body control enables the new Juke to feel quite agile, and this becomes evident on twisty country roads where the car feels very comfortable and confident.
Verdict, Pricing & Warranty.
The JUKE Hybrid is the most convincing version of Nissan’s compact SUV-Coupé yet. It delivers a smooth driving experience and it also benefits from the occasional silence associated with an EV. Pricing for the new Nissan JUKE Hybrid starts at €34,600, with my SVE test car priced from €37,600. A comprehensive 3-year/100,000km warranty comes as standard, along with an 8-year/160,000km battery warranty.
Visit www.nissan.ie for further information.
