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Nissan developing Juke-sized electric SUV – report

The upcoming model could be a compact sibling to Nissan's Ariya, according to the report.


Nissan will launch a compact Juke-sized electric SUV spun off the same platform as the upcoming all-electric Ariya, according to a new report from Auto Express.

The model will reportedly be underpinned by the Nissan-Renault Alliance’s new CMF-EV modular EV architecture, currently exclusive to the mid-size Ariya and upcoming Renault Megane small crossover.

It is also expected to include many technological features borrowed from its larger sibling (shown above), including the e-4ORCE all-wheel drive system and electronic torque vectoring.

The flagship variant of the existing Ariya – which is expected to come onto the market in the US and Europe later this year – derives an impressive 290kW/600Nm from its dual-motor powertrain. This allows the benchmark 0-100km/h sprint to be completed in a claimed 5.1 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 201km/h.

It's possible the new compact car will boast similar performance figures in range-topping guise, though its lighter kerb weight should mean similar acceleration and top speed claims can be achieved with less power and torque.

Auto Express suggests the Ariya's smaller 63kWh battery will be offered, likely delivering a range in the smaller vehicle of around 400 kilometres.

Assuming the Ariya's larger 87kWh pack was to be available, it would theoretically give the small SUV a WLTP-rated driving range in excess of 500km.

A spokesperson for Nissan in Australia confirmed the CMF-EV architecture would ultimately underpin other models in the Japanese brand’s line-up, however was unable to comment specifically on the prospect of a smaller cousin to the Ariya.

The Ariya is yet to be officially confirmed for the local market. However, if it does make its way into Australian showrooms, this is unlikely to happen before 2023.

As for its smaller cousin, it's unclear when it will arrive, however Nissan has confirmed it will introduce a further four new electric vehicles globally (excluding Ariya) within the next three years.


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William Davis

William Davis has written for Drive since July 2020, covering news and current affairs in the automotive industry. He has maintained a primary focus on industry trends, autonomous technology, electric vehicle regulations, and local environmental policy. As the newest addition to the Drive team, William was brought onboard for his attention to detail, writing skills, and strong work ethic. Despite writing for a diverse range of outlets – including the Australian Financial Review, Robb Report, and Property Observer – since completing his media degree at Macquarie University, William has always had a passion for cars.

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