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The follow-up from a funk pioneer, sort of like P-Funk All-Stars.
What It Is: The first we’ve seen of the 2015-model-year update for Nissan’s funky Juke. While blinding camouflage tape conceals many of the actual modified bits, the changes clearly follow a typical mid-cycle update program: new fascias, head- and taillights, wheels, and mirror caps (which probably add turn signals).
The Juke retains its bug-eye headlights, while the aero-barnacle turn signals return in what looks to be the boomerang shape that’s become commonplace in Nissan’s lineup. The previous model’s metallic grille struts look to have been widened and thickened, adopting the brand’s chunky “V-Motion” mouth.
Top: 2015 Nissan Juke (spy photo).
Bottom: 2013 Nissan Juke NISMO
Why It Matters: Nissan’s oversized running shoe with wheels has proven surprisingly popular with consumers (which we predicted when it was first introduced), and much of that popularity stems from its sheer funkiness. The Juke certainly does more for Nissan’s brand equity than the slow, squircle-tastic Cube wagonette, even if it can’t carry as much. We shall see if Nissan dials up the weird with the mid-cycle face lift or tones it down, but in any case, don’t expect it to blend in.
Platform: Not much is expected to change under the skin of the Versa-based Juke for its mid-cycle freshening, but it may get additional sound-deadening materials or a retuned chassis for a more compliant ride.
Powertrain: We haven’t heard anything from our sources about any powertrain changes, but, frankly, none are needed. The standard 1.6-liter turbo four already produces 188 horsepower and comes paired to a six-speed manual or a CVT (we obviously prefer the stick, even if it’s limited to FWD models), and both transmissions are expected to return. And Nissan is aggressively building the equity of its NISMO brand, so expect to see new iterations of the 197-hp Juke NISMO and the 215-hp Juke NISMO RS to appear soon.
Competition: Fiat 500L, Kia Soul, Mini Cooper Countryman, Scion xB, Subaru XV Crosstrek.
Estimated Arrival and Price: The 2015 Nissan Juke is expected to debut this spring before landing on dealer lots this fall. Thanks to intense competition from Kia and its Soul, Nissan won’t have the luxury of upping the price of the new Juke much, so stickers should remain close to the current model’s $19,800 mark.
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