Nissan is charging into the future with a radical new electric version of its popular Juke crossover SUV. Set to debut in 2026, this edgy EV will join the Micra and Leaf in Nissan’s growing lineup of electrified vehicles in Europe and beyond.
Though underpinned by the same platform as the established Leaf electric hatchback, the Juke EV promises a distinct personality. It won’t just be an electric makeover; it represents a key pillar in Nissan’s global strategy for future success. The significance is underscored by its placement alongside established icons like the Patrol SUV and the Nismo performance division — indicating how highly Nissan regards this new model.
The original Juke carved its niche with bold, polarizing styling that prioritized visual impact over practicality. This electric successor will carry on that tradition, aiming to stand out in a crowded compact SUV market. Clues about its wild aesthetic come from the Hyper Punk concept car unveiled at the 2023 Tokyo Mobility Show.
While details are scarce, Nissan executives have shed light on key aspects of this exciting project. Prototypes are already undergoing testing at European technical centers, suggesting we’re close to a concrete reveal.
Under the Hood: Leaf DNA with Juke Flair
At its core, the Juke EV will share its electric powertrain and battery technology with the Leaf and Ariya. This means efficient motors (front-wheel drive only), and potentially both 52kWh and 75kWh battery pack options delivering 174bhp or 213bhp respectively. Expect a respectable range, though likely less than the Leaf’s up to 386 miles on the larger battery due to styling compromises affecting aerodynamic efficiency.
Nissan’s VP of Electromobility, Shunsuke Shigemoto, emphasized that the Juke EV will ride on the same CMF-EV platform as the Leaf but with a shorter wheelbase. This strategic choice prioritizes dynamic character and packaging for a sportier driving experience over pure interior space. “For the rest,” Shigemoto explained, “we have quite good flexibility. So as you can imagine, we have a shorter wheelbase. Externally, the right height and so on can drastically change, even if we use the same platform. So we do have a lot of flexibility in terms of interior and exterior for the Juke.”
Styling: Polygon Mania Meets Juke Spirit
While platform bones might be Leaf-sourced, expect dramatic differences in design language. Think bigger wheels, wider tracks, and a lower roofline echoing the Hyper Punk concept car’s aggressive stance. The sheet metal itself will feature a distinctive geometric aesthetic inspired by gaming culture, according to Shigemoto. “The design theme is polygons,” he said. “It’s more toward standing out, unique design, as the Juke has always been. We’re just trying to carry on the DNA of the Juke.”
Spyshots hint at a shorter hood and raked windshield for aerodynamic efficiency while retaining key elements like narrow windows and circular headlights reminiscent of its gasoline-powered counterpart. Inside, prepare for another dose of eccentricity. Shigemoto expressed admiration for the original Juke’s unconventional cabin design—the motorbike-inspired center console was praised for its boldness. Expect a fusion of bold shapes, futuristic lighting, and vivid colors that go beyond just screens, creating an immersive digital experience reminiscent of science fiction films like “Tron.”
A Complemented EV Lineup
The arrival of the Juke EV marks another step in Nissan’s ambitious electrification strategy. By 2026, the brand will boast a comprehensive EV lineup spanning various segments – from city cars to larger SUVs – with hybrid options available across most models. This move signals Nissan’s determination to become a major player in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape.
