To make up for the fact that it’s the heavier car, the Qashqai has a larger, more powerful engine than the Juke. And while performance is hardly spectacular, in our tests the 1.3-litre Qashqai accelerated to 60mph from a standstill in a respectable 9.9sec. The Juke, with its tiny 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine, lagged behind with a more pedestrian 11.7sec time.
While we’re on the subject of gearboxes, both cars come with six-speed manuals. Both ’boxes have relatively light shift actions, but the Juke’s is woollier and less positive when you engage a cog. By contrast, the Qashqai’s steering feels far more natural and gives you a better sense of connection with the road. It isn’t perfect: the weight builds up a little too quickly as you apply lock. However, in this particular matchup the difference is night and day.
Qashqai all the way. More refined with insulation, noise deadening and space.