Nissan Juke is back for a second
generation that promises to outclass its predecessor in every respect. The 2020 Nissan Juke builds on
the success of the first-generation model by adopting an evolutionary design
that retains the funky looks despite the fact that the crossover is now roomier
thanks to the all-new CMF-B platform it shares with the latest Renault Captur
and Clio.
The new Juke is 4,210-mm long, 1,595-mm high, and 1,800-mm wide but it manages to
shed 23 kg compared to the previous-generation model. The crossover looks more athletic
than before thanks to the more harmonious proportions, “floating roof” design,
and the strong character line. The exterior is also highlighted by details such
as the bolder V-motion grille treatment and the standard full-LED headlights
and taillights.
Speaking of the lights, the Juke retains the iconic
circular headlamps along with new Y-shaped signature and gains sleeker
horizontal LED DRLs at the top. At the rear, the Juke drops the
boomerang-shaped taillights for more conventional units arranged horizontally. An exclusive body color called
Fuji Sunset is now added to a lineup of 11 paints. Nissan also offers
personalization options for the exterior in the form of customizable bumpers,
side sills, and 19-inch alloy wheels.
Compared to the exterior, the interior is radically
transformed and not just in terms of space. Nissan says rear-seat knee room
increased by 58 mm, rear head room by 11 mm, and the boot
capacity is now 20 percent bigger at 422 liters. But it’s the
interior design that has changed a lot as the new Juke adopts an all-new
dashboard layout with a “floating” central display, a new multifunction
steering wheel, and a reduced number of buttons on the center console.
The new NissanConnect infotainment system offers an
8-inch touch screen display compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and
Google Assistant. The eight-speaker Bose Personal Plus sound system is also
available for enhanced sound quality.
Nissan says the driving position is improved and new
soft-touch materials now cover the dashboard, door trim, and footwells for a
more premium feel. The 2020 Juke comes as standard with sports front seats and
optional Alcantara and leather upholstery. Personalization options for the
cabin include multiple combinations for the upholstery matching or
complementing the body and roof colors.
Nissan may describe the Juke as a sporty crossover
but the 1.0-liter three-cylinder DIG-T turbocharged gasoline engine does not
suggest sportiness. It makes 117 PS which the automaker says is enough
for “improved performance, fuel economy and refinement.” The engine is linked
to either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic with paddle
shifters and driving mode selector.
As for the chassis, the carmaker says the more rigid
platform that makes extensive use of high-strength steel offers better
stability, performance, and cornering capabilities. Technology-wise, the Juke is the
most connected Nissan ever, according to the automaker. It packs Nissan
Intelligent Mobility technology including the available , Intelligent Emergency
Braking with Pedestrian and Cyclist Recognition, Traffic Sign Recognition,
Intelligent Lane Intervention, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Blind Spot
Intervention.
Nissan will continue to build the Juke at its plant
in Sunderland, UK. Customer deliveries will begin at the end of November in
European markets.
