THE original Nissan Juke helped shape the small SUV sector when it first arrived more than a decade ago.

You cannot drive very far on any UK road without spotting the Sunderland-built crossover which has earned the country millions in exports over the years.

It is still a great favourite in this country and the second generation and all-new model arrived late last year.

The quirky five-seater retains its bold looks and character cabin and is now longer and wider than before providing more interior space.

The Juke may not look all that different but it is better to drive, has more tech and equipment and more interior space.

While it is clearly recognisable as an evolution of the original, the front view of the new car is far more dramatic thanks to a re-styled more dominant grille, a new look bonnet and totally different high mounted signature sidelights.

For the first time you can order a Juke with a different coloured roof to that of the body and that improves the overall look considerably.

At the rump you will notice changes to the tailgate and lights while the hidden rear door handles are retained from the original.

The tailgate changes mean it is now easier to access the boot which has increased to 422 litres - a hike of 20 per cent.This can also be increased by dropping the rear seats giving you 1,088 litres of space.

The cabin is now more spacious thanks to the increased dimensions and there is now more legroom for rear seat passengers and it is also easier for them to climb in or out of the Juke.

Equipment and finish levels are also much improved.The Tekna model I drove featured leather and cloth seats and nicely finished dashboard and surrounds.

An eight-inch touch screen display is set into the centre of the dashboard and when you go into reverse the split screen shows not only the image of what is behind you but also a 360 degree image of the car from above making it easy to park.

The new Juke has full smart phone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and eight Bose speakers mean you can enjoy your choice of music.

The digital instrument display is clear and easy to read and all the controls are well placed and functional.

Every model in the range is powered by the same 999cc, three cylinder, 117bhp engine and my car came with the seven-speed automatic DCT gearbox.

The combination was really impressive and despite its size the engine was always willing and entertaining. It also offers three driving modes, standard, eco or sport and the gearbox can also be operated manually via paddles on the steering wheel.

The ride is still on the firm side but this is possibly because this car boasted large 19-inch alloy wheels. The steering is on the light side but the Juke handles well and cruises comfortably at motorway speeds.

On twisting roads it corners with only a little body roll and always fell well planted but it can still feel unsettled on tarmac that is not completely smooth.

The car was finished in black with a red roof and matching door mirrors and shark fin antenna at an additional cost of £975 but the result was money well spent.