The Nissan Juke is a subcompact SUV that was introduced in 2011 and halted production in 2017.
It is cute, speedy, and stands out on the road. This is a great choice for those looking for an easy-to-drive and highly affordable SUV.
In this article, we’ll check out all of the best and worst model years of the Juke.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Nissan Juke Are:
The best Nissan Juke model years are 2017, 2016, 2015, and 2014. The worst model years of the Juke are 2011, 2013, and 2012. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Nissan Juke?
2017 Nissan Juke
The 2017 Juke is the final model year from the lineup and is the most advanced in terms of features and design.
It has lively acceleration, sports-like handling, and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system.
Owners praised the following aspects of this model: engine, fuel economy, acceleration, and driving experience.
The Juke is a lightweight vehicle that is powered by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with sufficient power (188 horsepower).
There are 5 trim levels to choose from: S, SV, Nismo, SL, and Nismo RS.
According to EPA estimates, the Juke can provide 29 MPG for combined driving, 28 MPG for city driving, and 32 MPG for highway driving.
While there is only 1 interior color scheme, prospective owners can choose from up to 9 different exterior body colors.
Our favorite safety features for this model year are the Around View Monitor with Object Detection, Torque Vectoring All-Wheel-Drive, and Siri Eyes Free.
- Edmunds: 3.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 78 / 100
2017 Juke, Edmunds review:
“I LOVE MY JUKE!!! I realize this car won’t be for everyone so let’s get the obvious negatives out of the way first; Cargo space is limited (but there is a split folding for extra room). The back seat is not for adults especially on longer journeys … Now let’s get to the good stuff! This car is sporty, really sporty. The 4 cylinder turbocharged engine will do 0-60 in 7 secs, this would rival some 2 door coupes. The CVT is responsive and I have no trouble accelerating when I want to, and there is an option to shift up or down via the center gear lever (if you want/need to have that control). The steering is right on point and super responsive, and you can “feel the road” in the steering wheel…”
2016 Nissan Juke
The 2016 Juke is a good choice for those looking for an affordable crossover with customization options and available all-wheel-drive.
New to this particular model are the special edition Stinger models, and a newly standardized Siri Eyes Free feature for the base and midrange trim levels.
This SUV secured a 4 out of 5 star NHTSA safety rating based on how it performed in various crash tests.
The entry-level S trim includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, and full power accessories, among other practical features.
The midrange SV introduces a sunroof, rear privacy glass, and automatic climate control.
For those looking for additional bells and whistles, the optional Tech package integrates a navigation system with a 5.8-inch color touchscreen infotainment system.
The higher-end SL trim has all of the standard features mentioned above plus fog lights, leather upholstery, and automatic headlights.
The Nismo RS is packed with a slightly more powerful engine, bigger brakes, and more aggressive suspension and steering tuning.
Based on our analysis of the exclusive features of each trim, we would recommend going for the S or SV if you are looking for a no-frills daily driver.
Go for the Nismo RS if you want to have a sportier experience in exchange for a higher price point.
- Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 75 / 100
2016 Juke, Edmunds review:
“800 miles so far. The manual shift mode is great and allows you to downshift without hitting the gas and run through the simulated gears. I have run sport mode briefly, basically it kicks up the CVT 1,000 RPM’s and you get a lot more torque, but the gas bill will skyrocket! I am getting somewhere around 30 mpg which is great. The seats are firm as is the ride, the tires are great. I’m single and not concerned the back seat is cramped (so is the new Jeep Renegade, I picked the Juke over that for performance reasons). All in all I am happy…”
2015 Nissan Juke
The 2015 Juke is another solid model year that sees a styling update to its grill, headlights, tail lights, and rear fascia. It also comes with a smoother-running touchscreen infotainment system.
The Juke Color Studio customization program was also implemented when this model year was released.
This allows buyers to mix and match colors for the body, wheels, side sills, rear spoiler, and door handles for the ultimate customization experience.
While it may not be the apple of everyone’s eye, this model year quickly grew to be one of the all-time favorites from the Juke lineup.
It comes fitted with a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine (188 horsepower) that is good enough, especially since the Juke is on the lighter side for an SUV.
The engine is paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for the S and SL trims while the high-end SV, Nismo, and Nismo RS can come with either a CVT or a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Front-wheel-drive is the standard configuration but an all-wheel-drive system can be equipped (for the CVT models only).
According to EPA, fuel economy is above average for the segment.
Expect 30 MPG for combined driving, 28 MPG for city driving, and 32 MPG for highway driving.
- Edmunds: 3.9 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 78 / 100
2015 Juke, Edmunds review:
“I drive 150 miles a day, and this great car makes it easy. Passing on the interstate is never an issue, just tap that gas pedal and she zooms. The Juke is not for tall or large-stature people though, it fits me perfectly but I am 4’10, my son had a hard time getting in … he’s 6’2. She does amazing in the Colorado rain and snow, driving in the mountains is easier with fantastic handling and maneuverability. Storage is limited, but I added my own. Some of the knobs and trim are cheaply made, but with just me in it, I won’t have a problem. I absolutely love this zippy fun AWD crossover, perfect for a commuter!”
2014 Nissan Juke
The 2014 Juke is the oldest model year on this list. While it may not be as up-to-date in terms of features and tech, it is still one of the more reliable options in the used car market.
It carries on largely unchanged from its direct predecessor (2013 Juke) but has had significantly lower complaints and lacked the issues that plagued owners of the previous model.
This model is a stand-offish subcompact SUV that comes at an attractive price point.
It may not suit those with traditional tastes but it is definitely a good grab for those looking to be noticed in traffic.
It comes with all expected safety features as standard, including anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, and a set of airbags.
A rearview camera is optional and is a must-have for those looking for an easier backing (and parking) experience.
In terms of performance, this model year can assume multiple personalities.
The Eco mode provides leisurely acceleration at maximum fuel efficiency while the Sport mode is livelier but at the cost of slightly higher fuel consumption.
While a lot of people have voiced strong opinions (both positive and negative) about the exterior form factor, the interior is almost as polarizing.
The inside has several organic curves and body-colored surfaces mixed with silver accents and other unique dimensions.
- Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.3 / 5.0
- JD Power: 79 / 100
2014 Juke, Edmunds review:
“I have liked the look of the Juke since I first saw it in 2011. Have had mine now for almost 2 months. I average 29.2 mpg in economy mode, which blows my jeep out the water. Sport mode is addictive. The ride is comfortable, I love all the bells and whistles. It handles well, responds to steering and foot pedals quickly. It is fun to drive, the reaction of a sports car with the safety of an SUV. There is not a lot of cargo room, but enough for a trip to the grocery store. Drop the seats down and lots of room.”
Consumer Scores For Best Nissan Juke Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2017 Nissan Juke | 3.9 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
| 2016 Nissan Juke | 3.8 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 75 / 100 |
| 2015 Nissan Juke | 3.9 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 78 / 100 |
| 2014 Nissan Juke | 4.1 / 5.0 | 4.3 / 5.0 | 79 / 100 |
What Are The Worst Years For The Nissan Juke?
2011 Nissan Juke
The 2011 Juke, according to online stats, is the most problematic model year ever produced. It is also the first model year ever produced, which shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise.
Several owners experienced oil leakage, timing chain problems, and accelerator pedal malfunctions.
Most of these issues surfaced at under the 100,000-mile mark.
While recall campaigns were implemented, some affected owners claimed to not have been included, forcing them to spend thousands of dollars just to have the necessary repairs.
Here is one of the several verified reports we found online:
“The contact owns a 2011 Nissan Juke. The contact stated that on various occasions while driving at various speeds, a rattling noise was heard coming from the engine compartment. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the timing chain needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the timing chain needed to be replaced again…”
The 2011 Juke had a total of 189 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 507 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Turbo failure
- Blown engine
- Very poor gas mileage
2013 Nissan Juke
The 2013 Juke had similar engine-related problems to the previously discussed 2011 model year, but also had a lot of equipment and electrical problems.
Owners reported sudden air conditioning issues, loss of power, rapid and unintended revving, and turbocharger failure.
Another worrisome finding was a handful of reports indicating that the SUV caught fire all of a sudden.
The report below is one of the many we found online:
“While parked in our driveway for more than 30 hrs, my 2013 Juke burst into flames. The fire dept did not find any evidence of arson or tampering and there was no weather occurrence to explain why it became engulfed in flames. The fire started in the engine compartment at 12:40am. Nissan has said that they examined the car and their technical specialist found ” no evidence of a product problem, failure, or malfunction that may have caused or contributed to this incident”. Nissan will not tell me why the car burned up, just that they’re not responsible. Why would a low-mileage, well-maintained vehicle catch fire unless there was some kind of product failure? I was lucky that only property was damaged but I feel Nissan USA is not taking the incident seriously.”
The 2013 Juke had a total of 120 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 48 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Transmission failure
- Turbocharger not working
- Engine problems
2012 Nissan Juke
Owners of the 2012 Juke suffered from various engine-related ailments and defects, most of which have already been discussed in the earlier “worst” entries.
Another pressing area of concern is related to the fuel system of the model.
Numerous owners reported noticeable strong gas odors in the interior, abrupt vehicle stalling, hesitation, and jerking.
Most of these cases, upon formal inspection, allegedly originated from a faulty fuel system.
Mechanics and technicians discovered fuel leakage underneath at various points of the vehicle’s underbelly.
One owner’s SUV exhibited the exact same symptoms that are supposedly covered by a recall campaign but was unfortunately not covered as determined by the dealership, as detailed below:
“Noticed gasoline smell in car; smell got progressively worse. Fuel found leaking under the car. Car taken to mechanic. Mechanic investigated the leak and Nissan Juke recalls. Mechanic found fuel leak under intake -see recall 14v683. Nissan says not covered by recall. Intake removed and found the fuel pressure sensor not adequately torqued. Touched with a wrench and spewed fuel. Then turned off by hand. Match the symptoms of the recall exactly.”
The 2012 Juke had a total of 96 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 50 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Engine will not start
- Timing chain broke
- Blown transmission
Related: 7 Most Common Problems With Nissan Leaf (Explained)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Nissan Juke | 0 | 14 | 1 |
| 2016 Nissan Juke | 7 | 36 | 1 |
| 2015 Nissan Juke | 8 | 48 | 1 |
| 2014 Nissan Juke | 26 | 78 | 2 |
| 2013 Nissan Juke | 48 | 120 | 1 |
| 2012 Nissan Juke | 50 | 96 | 4 |
| 2011 Nissan Juke | 50 | 189 | 3 |
What Problems Do Nissan Jukes Have?
- Transmission failure
- Turbocharger not working
- Blown engine
- Very poor gas mileage
- Engine will not start
- Timing chain broke
- Blown transmission
- Transmission overheating, whining
- Loss of power
- Various electrical issues
- Shuddering, shaking
- Internal failure in transaxle
- Loud whine
- Car shuts down while driving
- Gear box failed
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Nissan Juke?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Buick Encore | 8.1 | $15,157 – $19,448 | City: 24 – 25 /Highway: 30 – 33 |
| Mazda CX-3 | 8.1 | $16,249 – $19,607 | City: 27 – 29 /Highway: 32 – 34 |
| Mini Cooper Countryman | 8.0 | $19,312 – $21,724 | City: 21 – 25 /Highway: 30 – 33 |
| Chevrolet Trax | 7.9 | $14,545 – $16,303 | City: 24 – 25 /Highway: 30 – 33 |
| Honda HR-V | 7.9 | $18,466 – $22,010 | City: 25 – 28 /Highway: 31 – 34 |
| Jeep Renegade | 7.8 | $16,634 – $21,683 | City: 21 – 24 /Highway: 29 – 31 |
| Nissan Juke | 7.8 | $15,922 – $30,930 | City: 25 – 28 /Highway: 29 – 33 |
| Fiat 500X | 7.7 | $14,170 – $18,164 | City: 21 – 25 /Highway: 29 – 33 |
| Subaru Crosstrek | 7.6 | $18,102 – $20,403 | City: 23 – 26 /Highway: 30 – 33 |
| Nissan Rogue Sport | 7.1 | $16,169 – $19,564 | City: 24 – 25 /Highway: 30 – 32 |
| Mitsubishi Outlander Sport | 7.0 | $14,877 – $20,216 | City: 22 – 24 /Highway: 27 – 30 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: 9 Best & Worst Nissan Leaf Years (With Pictures)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/nissan/juke
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/nissan/juke
https://www.edmunds.com/nissan/juke/2017/review/
https://www.kbb.com/nissan/juke/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2017/nissan/juke
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Nissan/Juke/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/nissan/juke/
https://www.cars.com/research/nissan-juke/recalls/
