It’s hard to believe Nissan’s Juke has been around since 2010; heck, many pundits doubted the subcompact SUV would do as well as it has, even with sales dropping off in the last few years.
Luckily for Juke fans, the Japanese manufacturer remains committed to the funky looking, pint-sized crossover, with an all-new replacement due soon. However rather than waiting, let’s take an illustrated, spy shot-based first glance at what to expect from its second-generation successor.
Looking Radical
There’s no denying the outgoing Juke is a polarizing affair, with its bug-eyed face and stumpy proportions; yet arguably, this is why it has been so successful.
For 2020, Nissan will retain the in-your-face styling for visual interest. The frontal area is dominated by the Japanese brand’s V-motion grille that intersects the upper DRL’s, while the main headlamps have an ovoid shape just like the outgoing car.
The proportions are slightly more mature too, with longer rear doors and chiseled sheetmetal surfacing. Rear styling features Micra-like, LED tail lamps that protrude at the corners and a floating roof effect with glossy black trim dissecting the rear pillars.
Interior Improvements
Currently, the Juke’s biggest downfalls lay in its cramped layout and low-rent cabin materials. Fortunately, these niggles will be rectified along with a stronger focus towards in-car tech.
Cabin styling moves away from the current ovoid smorgasbord, in favor of straighter lines and technical detailing. A big touchscreen features android auto and apple carplay, along with wireless connectivity and customizable apps. The number of driver assist features gains a big bump; with 360-degree camera, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping aid and active park assist. Audiophiles will be catered for with a banging Bose surround system with integrated headrest speakers.
Platform & Powertrains
The second-generation Juke will switch to Renault/Nissan’s CMF-B architecture. This move will liberate an increase in wheelbase and more importantly, improved interior volume – especially for rear seat occupants.
As for powertrains, expect a range of petrol and diesels, ranging from a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol, an 1.6-litre turbocharged four, and a 1.5-litre turbo diesel for markets outside North America. If none of that sounds frugal enough, a gasoline-electric hybrid variant will be available too. Power will be fed through Nissan’s X-tronic continuously variable transmission to the front wheels, or via an optional all-wheel drive system.
Pint-Size Rivals & Launch Timing
The Juke competes in an ever-booming subcompact SUV segment and faces some serious competition; including the likes of Toyota’s radical C-HR, Nissan’s own similarly-sized Kicks, SEAT Arona, Hyundai Kona, Peugeot 2008, Audi Q2, Kia Stonic, Mazda CX-3, Ford EcoSport, Chevrolet Trax, Citroen C4 Cactus and Jeep Renegade.
We anticipate the all-new Juke to launch later this year as a 2020MY offering.
Tell us what you think; would the new Juke be on your buying radar? Share your views in the comments below.