Nissan Juke

I walk around it, peering, peeking through the window. It is „packed“ indeed! It reminds me of the nicely dressed, well raised boy who lurks for the opportunity to tousle his parting to show „the mean“ spark in the eye...

Although the lines are very clear, somewhat unrestrained with unusually elevated lights, they make him a „Hot Dog“. Tastes differ and beauty is relative thing. Well, again, I do not understand those people who have negative feedback on the design. It is important that the Juke remains notable (and a driver in it) in a sea of cars in the city traffic. And that means that the job was done – no one is indifferent.

Without Unnecessary Details
I reproach only the choice of colors. I would prohibit all hues of anemic gray by decree. Its image should be uncompromisingly followed by colors, and I mean Colors, vivid, bright, fiery...

The interior is nice. All is accessible, useful and clear, without any surprises and revolutionary innovation. Why it would be anyway? Nissan has proved in time that it makes not some makeup, but good, usable cars in a real hardcore sense. However, a subjective feeling is very pleasant, tucked, and at the same time comfortable, cozy and surprisingly clear from the driver's position.

The firmer are your hands on the steering wheel and foot on the gas pedal, the bigger is your smile. Driving in rainy and snowy weather only confirms the expected obedience and handling. Crowds, congestions, nervousness... Standard city ill-treatment... For all but the Juke! It is dynamic and you can put it through everything. Is there anything else to look for?

Very „Short“ Transmission
The gear ratios are short, very short. In the urban conditions it is fully adequate, because I am very quickly in the fourth gear, zealously respecting traffic regulations in the city, as well as winter conditions. The initial euphoria and vigor are decreasing, while fuel consumption is increasing, as I drive out of the city.

Driving on the highway confirms the doubts that arose. The Juke with 1.6 liter gasoline engine is not the best solution for long tours. Very quickly, already at 110 km/h you drive in the fifth gear. Any further acceleration and actions remain solely on the weak engine revs and pulling the last atom of strength out of it, with the increasing and deafening noise in the cabin. Already, at the speed of 120 km/h, the tachometer is indicating 4500 rpm, while fuel consumption is relentlessly growing.

So, at least when we speak about this engine option, Nissan should urgently address to the transmission, gear ratios or addition of the sixth, “cruising speed”. Almost spent the entire reservoir of 46 liters between Novi Sad and Kopaonik represents everything else but the good economy and standard that this class must meet!

Until then, namely the installation of the sixth gear, Nissan Juke, frankly remains just what it is – a city slicker. For some more serious tours, I am convinced that the 1.5 dCi is a better, more expensive option though, which has to have the foundation in the practice as well.

Boldly and Confidently
However, this rogue, with good winter tires and FWD manly passed the winter test on Kopaonik. It fared well on serious icy, winding roads and paths without a moment of anxiety. So, if you ask me, the frenzy successfully caused by Nissan second time (the first was with Qashqai) is justified. With proper selection of engines (in relation to the depth of your wallet), Juke has a quality to satisfy all normal ambitions of urban customers!

In the range of 16,000 to 24,000 euros, it is a cheap urban operative with a more powerful engine and FWD – a charmer with style and reliable cruiser that can satisfy even the most rigid snow boarder. Anyone can choose what suits him – Juke satisfy all with its conception.

The Conclusion
Juke “the Imp” with its appealing design leaves the distinct impression on all the observers, but also provides the good feeling at the steering wheel. The interior is harmonious and fully ergonomically adjusted to everyday driving.

It responds easily to the driver. It is easy to drive and suits to the driver as the finest suede leather gloves. It is agile above average, direct on the steering wheel, which provides a certain amount of fun while driving. The Juke disappointed on the open road, primarily because of the constant need for high revs, especially when overtaking, which in the end had a negative impact on overall fuel consumption.

Fortunately, this shortcoming is easily compensated in urban use, if it is prevailing, or by the choice of some other engine, in case of the need for long distance driving, which is rare nowadays.

All in all, it gets an excellent rating for the needs of urban exploitation. Despite the mentioned shortcomings, if I had a menu of all small, urban SUVs in front of me, you could hear: “One Juke for me, please!”