NIssan Juke Hybrid – ahead of the game

WHEN it comes to sharp, edgy-looking compact crossover models the Nissan Juke can genuinely claim to have created a trend.

Others may have followed those angular lines and aerodynamic profile with their own offerings but the Juke has stayed that small but significant step ahead of the game.

Now, as the electrification of Nissan’s passenger car range continues, the Juke has an advanced hybrid powertrain variant sitting alongside the existing petrol line-up.

And the good news is that it not only has the looks to match the way it drives but the Juke Hybrid is up to 21 per cent more efficient thanks to a combination of all-electric driving in the city and regenerative braking which feeds power back to the battery.

Three models are available starting with N-Connecta grade, priced from £27,250, followed by Tekna and our tested Tekna + version at £30,150.

All come with a 1.6-litre petrol engine supported by a 48bhp electric motor, the pair developing a useful 141bhp between them – a 25 per cent boost in power over the petrol models.

So long as there’s power in the battery the Juke will always start off in EV mode and is ideal for city or suburban driving at up to 30mph, though a heavy touch from the right foot will generally see the engine kicking in.

There’s also the advantage of something called an e-pedal function for increased regen braking.

Press a button in the centre console to activate it and when you lift off the accelerator moderate braking is applied, slowing the car down to a crawl. It feels odd at first but is something you quickly become accustomed to.

All that said, the hybrid is an engaging car to drive – relaxed in its slower paces and well planted at speed with a nicely weighted feel from the steering and well composed over most road surfaces.

Drive modes of Eco – which makes most sense – Standard and Sport are accessed via a rocker switch and while most of our 300-plus miles were covered in the first of these we nonetheless averaged around the 50mpg mark.

Distinguishing the hybrid from regular Juke models comes courtesy of a new mesh design front grille along with hybrid badges on the side and rear of the car plus a more aerodynamic rear spoiler.

There are also really stylish 19-inch two-tone alloy wheels similar to those found on the Nissan Ariya electric, though these are only available on the top spec Tekna + trim level.

Move inside and there’s a definite upmarket feel to the cabin with a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel and driver’s display that gives more info on the electrified powertrain status.

The right of the driver’s two instrument dials shows speed while the left shows a power gauge and its lower area highlights battery charge.

There’s plenty of stowage in all the usual places and for music lovers an improved 10-speaker BOSE sound system with speakers in each of the front headrests.

Overall kit is generous too, with sat nav, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen, push-button Start/Stop and reversing camera included along with keyless entry incorporating walk away lock / approach unlock function.

Passenger space is ample up front with well supported seats and a pair of adults can travel comfortably in rear, though the centre rear position is tight.

And the boot is just about adequate, measuring 354 litres as opposed to the petrol Juke’s 422 litres, due to placement of the battery.

Overall though the Juke Hybrid is a compact crossover model deserving of serious consideration – it’s economic, quite sporty, looks terrific in the new Magnetic Blue paint and retains the edginess that has long made it stand out from the crowd.