Amit Saraswat 
Nissan has recently implemented significant updates to its widely popular Juke crossover, aiming to sustain its competitive edge in the market. As the third-generation Juke approaches its fifth year of sale, the revisions target enhancing interior quality and usability while introducing a new range-topping trim level.
The alterations, primarily focused on elevating quality and user experience, include the incorporation of new materials, improved fit and finish, a larger touchscreen, and upgraded smartphone connectivity. According to Stephane Gandy, assistant chief engineer, the objective was to create an interior ambience reminiscent of a jet fighter, with elements positioned to evoke a sense of closeness to the driver.
The introduction of the N-Sport trim level alongside existing variants adds diversity to the lineup, catering to varying consumer preferences. Notably, the entry-level Visia trim has been discontinued due to its minimal sales contribution.
Andrew Humberstone, managing director of Nissan GB, emphasises the Juke’s sustained popularity in the UK market, citing 2023 as its best-selling year. These updates aim to uphold the model’s distinctive style while enhancing connectivity, quality, interior design, and safety features.
The touchscreen size has been notably increased to 12.3 inches, accompanied by redesigned menus for improved intuitiveness and customisable widgets for easy access to frequently used functions. Moreover, the screen’s 8-degree angle towards the driver enhances usability, particularly while driving.
Externally, the Juke retains its quirky design, with minor alterations such as new alloy wheel designs and low-rolling-resistance tyres for hybrid variants to reduce CO2 emissions. Matthew Weaver, vice president of Nissan Design Europe, explains that the decision to maintain the exterior design was influenced by customer feedback and the model’s iconic status.
Interior enhancements extend to the introduction of a configurable 12.3-inch digital instrument display in select trims, featuring a new 3D-effect display theme and integrated sat-nav functionality. N-Sport variants receive distinctive yellow Alcantara inserts and stitching, complementing the exterior’s new yellow paint option.
Additional improvements aimed at enhancing practicality include a larger glovebox, a standard electronic handbrake, and optimised placement of controls for ease of use. Despite advancements, the Juke’s engine options remain unchanged, offering a 1.0-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol with manual or automatic transmission and a hybrid variant featuring a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder petrol, electric motor, and a 1.2kWh battery. Production of the Juke continues at Nissan’s Sunderland plant, with deliveries anticipated later this year. While pricing details are yet to be disclosed, a marginal increase over the current base price is expected.
