The Nissan Juke is a unique crossover SUV that combines hatchback styling and dimensions with the higher ride height and AWD capabilities of an SUV. Its distinctive, funky design makes it stand out from more traditional small crossovers.
Determining what type of car the Juke is requires an understanding of its positioning between hatchback and SUV classifications. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the Juke’s classifications, pricing, features, performance and how it compares to other Nissan models and competitive vehicles.
What Type of Car is the Nissan Juke?
Categorizing the Juke within the automotive market can be tricky given its blend of hatchback, SUV and crossover characteristics. Here is how the Juke is commonly classified:
Crossover SUV
The Juke is primarily considered a subcompact crossover SUV. Key SUV features include:
- Higher ground clearance – 8.2 inches
- Available all-wheel drive
- SUV styling cues like black wheel arches and side sills
- Higher driving position than a hatchback
Hatchback Shape and Size
Despite the SUV classification, the Juke has a hatchback configuration:
- Two box, truncated rear design
- Integrated trunk and passenger cabin
- Shorter in length than a typical SUV at 162.4 inches
- Smaller overall dimensions on par with a hatchback
So while the Juke is marketed as a crossover SUV, its hatchback shape and driving dynamics mean it straddles both categories. This unique blend sets it apart from traditional SUVs.
Nissan Juke Generations and Styling
The Juke has stood out from day one in 2010 with its bold, unconventional styling. Here is an overview of its generations and styling evolutions:
First Generation (2010-2017)
The first-gen Juke originated the funky styling with:
- Rounded yet edgy lines
- Curved hood and hidden rear door handles
- Distinctive front lighting signature
- Available rear roof spoiler
It established the Juke as a head-turning subcompact crossover.
Second Generation (2018-Present)
The second-generation Juke retained the unique style but modernized it with:
- More aggressive, chunky lines
- New V-motion grille
- Boomerang shaped headlights and tail lights
- Floating roof with contrast colors
- Customizable exterior and interior accents
The revamped design provides more personalization while keeping the Juke’s unconventional styling DNA.
Nissan Juke Engine, Transmission and Performance
The Juke offers decent performance for a subcompact crossover, especially with the turbocharged engine. Here are the powertrain specifics:
- Base engine: 1.6L 4-cylinder, 177 horsepower
- Optional engine: 1.6L turbo 4-cylinder, 188 horsepower
- Transmission: Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive standard, optional all-wheel drive
- Handling: Steering and suspension tuned for agile handling
- Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 7 seconds (turbo engine)
- Towing: Not recommended for towing
The Juke prioritizes nimble driving dynamics over utility, with turbo power providing brisk acceleration.
Nissan Juke Trims and Configurations
The Juke is available in three main trim levels, each with access to optional packages and features:
S Trim
As the base model, the S trim starts at $21,930 and includes:
- 1.6L 4-cyl engine, front-wheel drive
- CVT transmission
- 17” steel wheels
- Automatic LED headlights
- 6-way manual driver’s seat
- Cloth seats
- 7” infotainment display
SV Trim
Priced at $24,830, the SV adds convenience features like:
- Intelligent Key and push button start
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Blind spot monitoring
- Heated front seats
- Automatic climate control
SR Trim
Starting at $28,460, the performance-oriented SR includes:
- Turbocharged 1.6L engine
- Sport-tuned suspension
- 19” alloy wheels
- Bose audio system
- Leatherette seats with orange accents
- Climate controlled front seats
Upper trims expand features, performance and styling customization.
Nissan Juke Fuel Economy
Here are the EPA estimated mpg ratings for Juke models:
- 1.6L FWD: 28 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- 1.6L AWD: 25 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- Turbo FWD: 27 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- Turbo AWD: 25 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
So fuel efficiency ranges from 25-32 mpg depending on powertrain. This is average for the class of subcompact crossover.
How Much Does a Nissan Juke Cost?
Nissan Juke pricing ranges from about $22,000 – $32,000 depending on trim level and options:
| Trim | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| S | $21,930 |
| SV | $24,830 |
| SR | $28,460 |
Key options that increase price:
- All-wheel drive system: +$1,400
- Premium packages: +$2,170 (SV), +$2,660 (SR)
- Nissan Intelligent Key: +$395
- Bose audio: +$995 (SV)
In total, a base Juke S starts around $22,000, while a loaded Juke SR AWD can reach $33,000 or more.
How the Juke Compares to Other Nissan Models
The Juke sits below Nissan’s larger Rogue and Rogue Sport crossovers with its hatchback footprint. It offers more flair than the Versa and Sentra sedans. Key comparisons:
Nissan Kicks – The Kicks has a lower starting price but less performance and tech. The Juke is sportier.
Nissan Rogue Sport – The Rogue Sport is larger with an expanded rear seat and cargo space. The Juke has bolder styling.
Nissan Murano – With a V6 engine and plush interior, the Murano is Nissan’s upscale crossover option over the compact Juke.
Nissan Pathfinder – As a 3-row family SUV, the Pathfinder is much bigger than the 2-row Juke.
Nissan Armada – The full-size Armada is Nissan’s largest, most truck-like SUV compared to the car-based Juke.
How the Nissan Juke Stacks Up to Competitors
Key competitors and how the Juke measures up:
Mazda CX-3 – The CX-3 is the most direct rival with similar size, hatch styling and performance. The Juke has edgier exterior styling while the CX-3 has a more premium interior.
Subaru Crosstrek – The Crosstrek offers better ground clearance for off-roading but less power. The Juke is more city-oriented.
Honda HR-V – The HR-V beats the Juke in rear seat and cargo space. The Juke is faster and more stylish.
Jeep Renegade – With standard 4×4 capability, the Renegade is better for off-roading than the Juke. The Juke has a smoother ride.
Hyundai Kona – The Kona shares the Juke’s lively driving manners in a slightly larger package. The Juke is more unique looking.
The Juke’s stand-out style and performance make it a strong competitor in the subcompact crossover segment.
Conclusion
While tricky to classify, the Nissan Juke is primarily considered a subcompact crossover SUV but with a hatchback shape and driving experience. Its unique design stands out from traditional boxy crossovers while performance, especially with the turbo engine, exceeds most rivals. With pricing starting around $22,000, the Juke competes well as an affordable, stylish and fun-to-drive small crossover. Its blend of hatchback and SUV attributes should continue making it a popular choice in the market.