The Nissan Juke has always been a bit of a marmite car (love it or hate it). But for 2024, it’s back with a facelift, aiming to be more than just a head-turner. Let’s see if this update makes the Juke a contender in the bustling small SUV market of Australia.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Distinctive Design: The Juke’s bold exterior design is an acquired taste, but it stands out in a sea of cookie-cutter SUVs.
- Surprising Practicality: Don’t be fooled by its compact size – the Juke offers decent cargo space and rear legroom.
- Safety Features: Standard safety tech includes autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Cons
- No Rear Air Vents: Passengers in the back might feel a bit left out during hot Australian summers.
- Outdated Interior Look: The cabin lacks the modern flair found in some competitors.
- DCT Quirks: The dual-clutch transmission can be a bit finicky at times.
How Much Does it Cost?
The 2024 Nissan Juke in Australia starts at a very competitive price of $27,990 (drive-away prices can range up to $38,990) for the base ST model. There are five trim levels to choose from, each adding more features and comfort.
Features and Benefits
- Exterior: The Juke still looks amazing on the outside, with its distinctive front grille and sleek lines.
- Interior: While the cabin design feels a tad outdated, the materials are decent, and the seats are comfortable.
- Infotainment: The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is user-friendly and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Practicality: Fold down the rear seats, and you’ll have enough space for a weekend getaway.
Safety First: Built-in Peace of Mind
Speaking of safety, the 2024 Juke boasts a five-star ANCAP safety rating. It comes packed with a suite of driver-assist features, making your daily commute or weekend adventures a breeze. Nissan’s intelligent emergency braking system can detect pedestrians and cyclists, helping to avoid collisions. Additionally, lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring keep you in check, especially during those long highway stretches.
A Sneak Peek Into the Nissan Juke
Running Costs
One of the Juke‘s strong points is its fuel efficiency. Thanks to the 1.0L turbocharged three-cylinder engine, Nissan claims a combined fuel consumption figure of 5.8L/100km. This translates to significant savings at the pump, especially for city dwellers. However, keep in mind that this engine, while perky in the city, might struggle with overtaking or hauling heavy loads on the highway.
Standing Out from the Crowd: How Does it Compare?
The Juke faces stiff competition in the Australian small SUV segment. The Mazda CX-3 offers a more luxurious interior and a slightly more powerful engine, while the Toyota Yaris Cross boasts exceptional reliability and a hybrid option.
However, the Juke stands out with its funky design and feature-packed cabin at a competitive price point. It might not be the most practical choice for families, but for young urbanites or those seeking a stylish and economical city runabout, the Juke offers a compelling package.
Conclusion
A Fun and Functional City Companion (with Quirks)
The 2024 Nissan Juke isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. It’s a car for those who want to stand out from the crowd, appreciate modern tech features, and prioritize city driving. It’s fuel-efficient, safe, and packs a surprising amount of personality. However, those seeking a spacious interior, all-wheel-drive capability, or a powerhouse engine might need to look elsewhere.
Rating: 7.5/10
The 2024 Nissan Juke is a quirky and compelling option in the small SUV segment. It’s not perfect, but it offers a unique blend of style, practicality, and affordability, making it a great choice for young drivers and city dwellers.