We have driven for the first time the new Nissan Juke Hybrid, a conventional (non-plug-in) hybrid version of 143 hp that becomes the most powerful alternative with an ECO label compared to the current 114 hp gasoline model. In this video we explain the main features of the new hybrid Juke and we tell you our first driving impressions:
Before going into technical issues, it should be noted that the new hybrid Juke brings with it some modifications to its bodywork that give it a slightly different image; and of course, most of them focus on the front.
The brand’s new logo is shown in the center of the grille, which is different and tries to prioritize the aerodynamics of the vehicle since its cooling needs have decreased; for the same reason, the air intake intended to cool the radiator has active blades. Other elements used to optimize aerodynamics are the wheel arch wings, alloy wheels in 17 or 19-inch sizes, the lower rear axle fairing and a slightly modified rear spoiler.
Same, but not quite
When we sit in the driver’s seat we find the already familiar interior, including a dashboard with more than correct quality materials -with some hard plastics that are not out of tune-, an 8-inch touch screen, a flattened steering wheel -although adjustable in depth – and some great sports-style seats that integrate the headrest and even some speakers.
From there, this hybrid version incorporates certain specific details: in the instrument panel, the indicator on the left measures the use and recovery of energy, whose flow we can also see graphically on the central 7” screen. Using the EV button we can circulate in electric mode, and the e-Pedal button is responsible for activating the driving functionality with a single pedal (available at speeds above 5 km / h).
As for the rear seats, no news. The free distance for the knees is more than enough for people of average height, the width is very decent for two adults of good size -not for three-, and the height to the ceiling is sufficient although not too much. In any case, our passengers continue to have the same space as in any other Juke to accommodate themselves in the vehicle.
Where they will have a problem will be when it comes to storing their luggage. And it is that, if one of the great improvements of the second generation Juke is its larger trunk (which has grown to 422 liters) in the hybrid Juke we have lost almost all this gain, and we will have to settle for 354 liters. This is because the hybrid system battery is located under the floor, where there is hardly any room left for a puncture repair kit and little else; but if we need to expand the cargo space, with the rear seats folded down we will have 1,237 liters in total.
More powerful, more efficient and with an ECO label
The Nissan Juke Hybrid incorporates a conventional hybrid technology (that is, not plug-in) developed by the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance, and which is essentially the same as that found in the Renault Captur E-Tech, a French “relative” of the Nissan Juke. This hybrid system integrates three engines (one gasoline and two electric) and reaches a combined power of 143 CV. Nissan is responsible for the 1.6-liter, 94-hp combustion engine, as well as the main electric motor, with 36 kW of power (equivalent to 49 hp). For its part, Renault provides the 15 kW (20 hp) electric motor/generator, the lithium-ion battery with 1.2 kWh capacity, and the gearbox they call “multimodal”, with 4 gears for the gasoline engine and another 2 for the main electric.
Curiously, this automatic gearbox lacks a clutch, but there is no problem because the vehicle always starts its journey in electric mode, from standstill to 10 km/h. Once we are in motion, the hybrid system is responsible for managing the most appropriate propulsion method, bringing the gasoline engine into play when appropriate.
For its part, the secondary electrical device is responsible for serving as a generator with which to charge the battery and as a starter for the thermal propellant; and by doing the latter, it also takes care of synchronizing its rotation with the most appropriate ratio of the automatic transmission. Therefore, the main electric motor is the only one intended to move the vehicle.
Theoretically it is capable of doing it alone up to a maximum speed of 55 km / h, and if we press the EV button, we can try to force the entry of electric mode; but given the small size of the battery, it will only be possible to drive in “zero emissions” mode for short sections of our journey. After all, this is a conventional, non-plug-in hybrid; and therefore, the main electric motor is intended more as a support for the gasoline engine than as a single propellant.
The average consumption of the Juke Hybrid is 5.0 l/100 km (value not yet approved). Being a hybrid car, it is theoretically possible to reduce it in daily use in the urban environment and when traveling on secondary roads at a leisurely pace. And then there are the other advantages that this model presents: accessing the ECO label of the General Directorate of Traffic, and earning almost 40 CV compared to what it had.
Don’t miss our video test! In it we explain in detail all the new features that the Nissan Juke Hybrid incorporates and we share with you our sensations behind the wheel of this new hybrid crossover.
How much does the Nissan Juke Hybrid cost?
The Nissan Juke Hybrid goes on sale in Spain with the trim levels N-Connecta, N-Design and Tekna. The base equipment includes, among other things, 17″ wheels, automatic climate control, instrumentation with a 7″ screen, and an 8″ touch screen with rear view camera, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Prices, before applying discounts, start from 31,350 euros. In addition to the three levels mentioned, the Premiere Edition launch series is available, limited to 350 units in our country and priced at 32,350 euros.
- Find your new Nissan Juke at coche.net
- Your used Nissan Juke is here
