Nissan claims the new hybrid powertrain it is adding to the Juke range will guarantee owners a 40% reduction in fuel consumption and 25% more power than the equivalent turbo petrol engine.
The hybrid unit’s introduction is part of Nissan’s push towards a fully electrified portfolio by 2023 and also coincides with a mid-cycle update to the second-generation of its popular compact crossover.
The set-up combines a 92bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine with a 48bhp electric motor for a 140bhp output. Economy is quoted at 54 miles-per-gallon and exhaust emissions have been capped at 118g/km.
On start-up, the car moves off in electric mode thanks to a 15kW starter-generator and a 1.2kWh water-cooled battery that also allows drivers to reach speeds of up to 34mph before the petrol engine takes over.
On top of superior economy, Nissan says EV mode can be engaged in residential areas, around built-up areas such as outside schools and hospitals, in busy car parks and slow-moving city traffic.
A number of small changes have been applied to the Juke’s styling, with designers focusing their efforts on the bodywork below the bumper to make it more aerodynamically efficient. Hybrid badges have been applied to the front doors and tailgate, and the front grille houses Nissan’s simpler corporate logo.
Juke Hybrid models also usher in a reprofiled rear roof spoiler and all-new two-tone 17-inch alloy wheels. A larger 19-inch rim that has been inspired by the pure electric Ariya makes its debut, too.
Key differences on the inside amount to a fresh two dial instrument binnacle that contains a power gauge, a needle to denote regenerative charge and an indicator for the battery’s current charge level.
Boot space takes a hit because of the hybrid system’s battery pack; it nibbles 68-litres to take the cargo area’s total capacity with the back seats up to 354-litres; when these are folded forward this grows to 1,237-litres. Nissan has confirmed that rear knee room is unchanged at 553mm.
“The introduction of the new Juke Hybrid this summer will be another key addition to Nissan’s electrified range. We are in the middle of an electrified product offensive that places equal emphasis on eco-efficiency and driving pleasure,” said Nissan’s Arnaud Charpentier.
