Nissan Juke Hybrid (2022) Review

It’s hard to imagine a time when compact SUVs were a novelty, yet the Nissan Juke was among the pioneers that sparked the category. Now facing stiff competition from models like the Ford Puma, Peugeot 2008, Skoda Kamiq, and Renault Captur, how does the 2022 Nissan Juke Hybrid measure up? Let's dive into what this new model has to offer and how it’s adjusted to the demands of modern urban drivers.

If you’re in the market for a compact SUV with city-friendly functionality, the 2022 Nissan Juke Hybrid is well worth considering.

Exterior and Cargo Space

The 2022 Nissan Juke Hybrid arrives with a slightly more robust, muscular stance than previous versions. It features a decent-sized boot that’s easily accessible and includes a handy false floor for underfloor storage, providing extra versatility for city or weekend errands. The ability to expand the boot depth makes it surprisingly practical, especially for a smaller SUV.

Interior Comfort and Features

Inside, the Juke’s layout is both functional and familiar. The physical controls on the steering wheel and dash make navigating the infotainment system and adjusting settings straightforward, avoiding the frustration of touchscreen-heavy controls. The main infotainment screen, however, feels a bit outdated compared to rivals, though it's still serviceable with physical knobs and dials for volume and air conditioning, which some may prefer.

The material quality across the interior isn’t exactly premium but feels sturdy. Seats are comfortable, with a high, commanding driving position typical of an SUV, making it easy to see and maneuver in urban environments. Rear visibility is limited by the thick rear pillars, but a reversing camera helps offset this—though the camera's resolution could be sharper.

Space in the Rear

Back-seat passengers are treated to ample legroom and headroom, even for those over six feet. The low transmission tunnel also means that three small adults can fit across the rear without too much discomfort. Rear passengers will appreciate the USB-A port, though connectivity options are sparse by today’s standards.

Powertrain and Performance

Under the hood, the Juke Hybrid pairs a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 143 PS. This hybrid setup provides decent acceleration, going from 0-60 mph in around 10.1 seconds. The engine is a bit noisy, particularly in city driving, which detracts slightly from an otherwise solid performance.

The Juke is exceptionally nimble, making it ideal for navigating tight city streets. Its steering is light yet responsive, allowing for effortless maneuvering and parking. Nissan claims a fuel economy of 55.4 mpg for the Juke Hybrid, and during city testing, it averaged around 50.8 mpg—a respectable figure given the frequent stop-and-go of urban driving. However, its modest 750 kg towing capacity means it’s not built for hauling larger loads.

Ride and Handling

On smooth roads, the Juke’s ride quality feels decent. However, the suspension leans towards the firmer side, which becomes noticeable over uneven surfaces, where rough roads and cobblestones can lead to a somewhat jarring experience. This may not be a deal breaker for city driving, but it’s something to consider if comfort is a priority.

Technology and Trim Levels

In this review, we drove the N-Connecta trim, one of the higher-spec versions of the Juke, which comes loaded with features including Apple CarPlay, satellite navigation, lane-keeping assist, and a reversing camera. While this trim offers nearly everything a city driver could need, it does push the Juke's price to nearly £28,000. Those looking for similar features might want to explore lower trim levels to find one that best meets their needs.

Verdict: A Pleasant Urban Companion

If you’re in the market for a compact SUV with city-friendly functionality, the 2022 Nissan Juke Hybrid is well worth considering. While it may not be perfect—with a somewhat dated infotainment system, noticeable engine noise, and firmer-than-expected ride quality—the new Juke is an improvement over previous generations and offers a high driving position in a manageable package that’s easy to park and maneuver. It’s not built for towing or high-performance driving, but for everyday urban life, it checks many of the right boxes.

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