2024 Nissan Juke review

A comprehensive makeover helps the quirky Nissan Juke fight another day.

Nissan’s smallest SUV raised eyebrows (literally) when launched here back in 2013, thanks in part to its quirky design and googly eye headlamps. The second generation was introduced in 2020 and mirrored the original’s design cues.

Lack of space was a common criticism of the first generation, but this model was built on a new platform and larger in just about every dimension.

Amid Nissan’s new-model onslaught in 2023, it also freshened up its Juke variants with some visual and tech upgrades, while the ST-L gained a shark fin antenna, smart key, leather accented seats and a luggage board in the rear cargo area.

How much does the 2024 Nissan Juke cost?

Prices for the Nissan Juke start at $28,390 for the ST model, the popular ST-L jumping to $34,440.

2024 Nissan Juke's tech and styling

The ST-L’s generous standard features list leads off with an eight-inch touchscreen with satellite nav, digital radio, Apple CarPlay, heated front seats, around-view monitor and 19-inch alloys.

The Juke has a five-star ANCAP safety rating, with its safety package including forward collision warning and emergency braking (pedestrian and cyclist), lane departure warning, lane intervention, traffic sign recognition, rear cross traffic alert, and around view monitor.

The interior presents well, with soft touch finishes on most surfaces and an electric parking brake fitted to ST-L variants and above providing a much-needed console in the centre armrest.

Nissan’s Monoform front seats, where the headrest is integrated into the backrest (much like a racing seat) hold occupants securely without being overly restrictive. The rear seats have a flatter base and are less supportive. Behind them lurks a generous 422 litres of cargo volume, with the new luggage board adjustable to increase versatility.

2024 Nissan Juke driving and performance

Powering the Juke is a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine developing 84kW and 180Nm, matched to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission driving the front wheels. Claimed fuel consumption is 5.8L/100km. 

Around town the Juke performs admirably, the key being its 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder. It develops 180Nm from around 2400rpm while many competitors make do with less torque produced at higher revs.

Off the mark there is a spring to its step, despite the seven-speed DCT sometimes feeling indecisive and hesitant (the package does its best work when in sport mode).

On the highway the Juke feels relaxed under cruising conditions, but when asked to accelerate or overtake, the engine works hard up to 5250rpm for little reward. We saw a fair return of 6.4L/100km over a range of driving conditions, although the Juke does require 95 premium petrol when it’s time to fill up.

The suspension set up is conventional for the light SUV class; up front are Macpherson struts, and the rear is a torsion beam setup underpinned by 225/45 19-inch low profile tyres. They are surprisingly well-matched to the springs and dampers, the ride isn’t too firm, and the Juke navigates bends commendably, feeling tight and composed. 

Final thoughts?

The Juke’s styling divides opinion, which perhaps goes some way in explaining its lacklustre position in the light SUV sales charts. There are cheaper offerings from the competition, as well, but spec for spec the ST-L, priced at $34,440 stacks up nicely.  

Pros: Handling and refinement; fuel consumption

Cons: Requires 95 RON premium

2024 Nissan Juke specifications

• Engine: 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder
• Transmission: Seven-speed DSG
• Power: 84kW
• Torque: 180Nm
• Fuel consumption: 5.8L/100km (claimed)
• ANCAP: Five stars
• Price: $34,440 (plus ORC)