Pros: Available all-wheel drive; one-of-a-kind characteristics; high ride height means easier entry/exit and better rough-terrain tractability than sporty small cars
Cons: Polarizing styling; disappointingly tight back-seat space; less cargo versatility than one might expect; engine noise; relatively stiff ride
CG Says: For 2015, the Nissan Juke gets a minor facelift that includes revised front and rear fasciae and new headlights and taillights, both with LED accents. The standard-equipment list is expanded to include keyless entry and starting, rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and NissanConnectSM with Mobile Apps. The base NISMO models now make do with the base 188-horsepower engine, but the NISMO RS (a mid-2014 addition to the line) gets an upgraded engine with 215 hp with front-wheel drive or 211 with all-wheel drive. Aggressive styling, a peppy turbocharged engine, athletic handling, and available all-wheel drive give Juke a sporty and distinct personality. Subcompact shoppers may find Juke too pricey (the SL and NISMO models start in the mid-$20K range), and SUV buyers will likely be turned off by the cramped rear seating and the paucity of cargo space. Yet Juke may appeal to those who are looking for a unique sporty/performance car with loads of character.
Class | Subcompact SUV |
Body Style(s) | 4-door hatchback |
Passenger Count | 5 |
Drive Wheels | front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive |
Manufacturer | Nissan |
Nation of Manufacture | Japan |
Base Prices | S: $20,250 AWD S: $22,100 SV: $22,300 AWD SV: $24,150 SL: $25,240 AWD SL: $26,940 NISMO: $24,830 AWD NISMO: $27,230 NISMO RS: $28,020 AWD NISMO RS: $30,020 |
Base Engine turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder |
Horsepower 188 |
Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
Avail. Transmission CVT |
EPA City Range (mpg) 26-28 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 31-34 |
Optional Engine turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder |
Horsepower 215 (FWD NISMO RS) or 211 (AWD NISMO RS) |
Std. Transmission 6-speed manual (FWD NISMO RS) |
Avail. Transmission CVT (AWD NISMO RS) |
EPA City Range (mpg) 25 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 29-31 |