2011 Nissan Juke Review
There's a new kid on the block by the name of Nissan Juke and it's taking the Kenyan car market by storm. The Nissan Juke looks and drives like an SUV but it's really an economical hatchback at heart. We drove the Juke and can say without fear of contradiction that it's one of the best economy cars we've driven in a while. Of course it's not without its faults but when all factors are considered, it's one of the best.
Detailed Review
The Nissan Juke competes with the Subaru XV, Mitsubishi ASX, Honda HR-V and Nissan Dualis. The VW Cross Polo also comes into discussion as it offers the same ruggedness and fuel economy albeit in a much smaller package.
Under the bonnet, the 2011 Nissan Juke comes with 2 engine options. These are; the 1.5 Litre HR15DE engine and the 1.6 Litre MR16DDT Turbo engine. The transmissions available are; an automatic CTV and a 5-speed manual. The Nissan Juke is offered in both 2WD and 4WD.
2011 Nissan Juke Grades
- Nissan Juke 15RS – This is the base model that comes with the 1.5L engine, 2WD, manual AC, key start, manual seats, 16-Inch steel rims and no ESC
- Nissan Juke 15RX – This is the intermediate grade that comes with the 1.5L engine, 2WD, automatic AC, smart start, manual seats, 17-Inch alloy rims and no ESC
- Nissan Juke 16GT – This is a luxury grade that comes with the 1.6L engine, 2WD, automatic AC, smart start, electric seats, 17-Inch alloy rims and ESC
- Nissan Juke 16GT FOUR – This is similar to the 16GT but with 4WD
Interior
Legroom & Space
The interior of the Nissan Juke can best be described as basic and functional. It does not feel as big on the inside, the bulky exterior belies it’s true size. At the first row, there’s sufficient legroom even for tall people. At the second row, while the legroom is passable, the shoulder space is really tight when three adults are seated.
Cabin Storage
There are several storage compartments in the cabin that are useful for storing items such as smartphones, beverages, goggles, handbags etc. At the first row there are 2 cup-holders, door pockets, a glovebox and a center tray. For the second row, the storage is on the front seat jacket pockets and door pockets.
2011 Nissan Juke Boot Space
The Nissan Juke has a surprisingly small boot that cannot carry any meaningful luggage. The rear seats can be folded in a split configuration to create extra space.
Other Extras – Navigation, Reverse camera, Alloy Rims, Fog lights
Safety Features: SRS Airbags, Curtain airbags, ABS, Electronic Stability Control
Exterior
The Nissan Juke has a unique and appealing design that resembles a cross between a sports car and an SUV.
2011 Nissan Juke Fuel Consumption
2011 Nissan Juke 1.5L fuel consumption: 15.9 km/L
2011 Nissan Juke 1.6L fuel consumption: 13.5 km/L
2011 Nissan Juke Acceleration
2011 Nissan Juke 1.5L accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 11.8 sec.
2011 Nissan Juke 1.6L accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 9.5 sec.
2011 Nissan Juke Fuel Tank Capacity: 52 Litres
2011 Nissan Juke Ground Clearance
The Nissan Juke has a ground clearance of 7.0 Inches(178mm) which is good for both on road and off road driving. Even when fully loaded, it easily clears speed bumps. While not an off-road vehicle, the 4WD model offers some limited capabilities.
2011 Nissan Juke Stability and Handling
The Nissan Juke is a very exciting car to drive. When pushed hard around corners, the car feels totally composed with no hint of body roll. The 1.5L feels slightly underpowered especially when coming off a standstill but once it gains momentum, it drives well. The 1.6L turbo on the other hand has a strong acceleration and it’s power delivery is balanced across the band.
Service Intervals
Minor Service- At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil
Major Service – At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil
Spare Parts Availability, Cost & Where to buy
Service parts are shared with many other Nissans and therefore affordable and easy to find. Body parts on the other hand are difficult to find. We made a few phone calls and could not find any dealer currently stocking them. Of course this is likely to change in the coming months as the market adjusts. Click here for a list of Nissan Spare Part dealers in Kenya
2011 Nissan Juke Reliability
The driving conditions in Kenya are significantly different from those in Japan and Europe. Reliability reviews done for those markets largely do not apply to the Kenyan market. There are differences in roads, fuel, climate, spares, and technical expertise. To give you accurate and reliable local insights, we interview experts such as mechanics and car dealers, who have in-depth knowledge of the Kenyan market. We also test the cars ourselves. Our aim is to give you the right information to enable you make an informed decision when buying a car.
We interviewed Nissan Juke owners who have had the car for more than a year and the feedback was impressive. The car has a good record so far and owners are happy with it. As with any car, it’s always important to read the Owner’s Manual and follow its recommendations. To download the 2011 Nissan Juke Owner’s Manual, click here.
Resale Value – Average
Nissan Juke Competitors: Subaru XV, Mitsubishi RVR, Honda HR-V and Nissan Dualis
Cost of Ownership
Purchase Price: See Latest Nissan Juke Prices here
Comprehensive Insurance: Average Ksh. 30,000/ per annum- Or
3rd Party Insurance: Ksh. 7,000/- per annum
Change of Tyres(If neccessary) Ksh. 40,000/- for 4 Tyres
What we like about the 2011 Nissan Juke
1. Head turning design
2. SUV-like ride with a commanding view of the road
3. Good handling characteristics
What we don’t
Small cabin and boot
Conclusion
The Nissan Juke is an excellent car that is best suited for people with an active and urban lifestyle. Even though it’s an SUV poser, it still offers some compelling off-road characteristics such as a good ground clearance and a decent grip particularly on the 4WD option. But at heart, the Nissan Juke is a hatchback that is built to be economical and affordable.
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