Like sister car, the Renault Captur, the first Juke can be credited with spearheading the B-segment crossover sector, with its distinctive styling.
For the second-generation Juke, it’s more of the same styling-wise, although it has been more toned down. At the front, the large headlights remain, although they are now slickly integrated with the slim driving lights, which move from the top of bonnet. At the side, the large wheel arches are still there, but seem to fit in with the overall design better – but the standard N-Connecta 17-inch alloy wheels do look a bit lost under them.
The back looks more conventional, with the high-set vertical lights, boot space is a more practical 422 litres, with a wider opening.
Inside, the driving position is comfortable, even for the tallest driver and the N-Connecta trim includes key equipment such as an 8-inch touchscreen and navigation, Apple Car Play and Android Auto and a rear parking camera. Rear space is better than before, but is still only just adequate. The Captur feels more spacious in the back. The high window line makes it feel claustrophobic too.
On the road, the 1.0-litre Dig-T petrol engine is willing, reasonably refined and, on our test car, married up with a precise, six-speed manual transmission – although there is a DCT automatic option for those who don’t want to change their own gears. It returns 47.1mpg on the WLTP combined cycle, with just 112g/km WLTP emissions.
Far better to drive, the steering is quicker, making changes of direction faster. Considering the Juke’s tall footprint, it handles tidily too, with a lack of body roll.
The new Juke improves on almost every one of the first-generation car’s failings, which makes it a serious option in a keenly fought class full of new rivals.
THE VERDICT
Additional space and an improved drive are Juke highpoints and should prove attractive to fleets.
