2014 will soon be a significant year for Nissan in Australia. The Pulsar is straight back, the Dualis becomes the QashQai, as well as the Juke comes storming in to the compact SUV market. If you're considering purchasing a Juke, you will not get the model range too disconcerting: two petrol engines, three model levels plus a guide or CVT.

The compact SUV category has already been jammed with attractive alternatives. We believe the mid level ST-S is the actual sweet spot within the Juke variety, despite it missing a couple of extra features when compared with the very best grade version, including AWD.

It's the same engine we analyzed within the Pulsar SSS which is a game, willing performer in this type of nimble SUV. Matched to a sixspeed manual-transmission, Nissan claims an ADR fuel usage amount of 6.9L/100km. Crucially, premium unleaded is preferred from the other side of the Juke variety, irrespective of engine tune.

A topspec Hyundai ix35 Highlander AWD will set you back $37,790 with a petrol engine.

There isn't any doubt the Juke's swoopy, edgy styling has had a feeling of drama to a section sorely in need of it. That which we found astonishing, however, is that the cockpit - while nicely equipped, cozy and perhaps not wanting for quality - doesn't match the feeling of occasion the outdoor promises. In Addition, we couldn't quite work out Nissan's claim the center console is Moto GP inspired. Despite truly being a concise SUV, the Juke has adequate room for as much as four adults, even though long legged adults would have been a little cramped within the rear seats. Head space was surprisingly remarkable in the front and back seats and visibility is exceptional.

The Juke feels sound and tight without being too stiff.

The entry level Juke ST may appear - in writing at least - to be under-powered. The naturally aspirated engine creates 86kW and 158Nm and, paired with the CVT, produces an ADR claim of just 6.0L/100km. It should work just a little tougher in relation to the turbo engine to reach highway speed, certain, but it's way from under-powered and you will be considered a great deal kinder on the hip pocket in stopstart traffic.

In the open road, the guide and CVT were reactive and smooth. We're still not convinced by the 'theoretical measure' gear shift system makers insist on with the CVT. We're yet to listen to from members who ever utilize the system through the steering wheel mounted paddles, either. The Juke equation is fairly straightforward, though. Choose for a guide, if you enjoy shifting gears. The CVT will soon be as much as the job of tackling the daily commute, should you want vehicle. The reason we believe the mid rank Juke is the version to really go for is the pairing of the engine together with the outstanding sixspeed manual transmission. As the CVT does its work nicely, it's the manual that actually shines thanks to brief, crisp shifts plus a clutch pedal that's weighty enough without ever feeling heavy.

It's taken 36 months for Nissan to locate ways to have the Juke in to the Australian marketplace. The sole question is whether it is here too late. Having said that, the little SUV section proceeds to burst as well as the Juke brings with it an actual point of difference. There's a cost and specs distribute to entice most budget-conscious buyers, also.

2013 Nissan Juke Nismo Review and Road Test