Nissan's funky and left-field Juke has emerged with the title of 'Used Small Car of the Year' from a motor trade title – though amid tough sales conditions not all dealers in the county agree.

Car Dealer Magazine handed the accolade to the compact crossover, which was seen as a head-turning newcomer in 2010 when it was launched, at the 2023 Used Car Awards held in East London.

A spokesman said: "The Juke won praise for its eye-catching, individual styling, great levels of technology plus generous cargo space and roomy interior. Judges also highlighted its versatility, comfort and safety, making it a go-to option for thousands of used car dealers and buyers across the UK.

They added: ''Used car dealers love the Juke as there's always a customer for one. Although a small car, it has a certain X-factor that buyers love. The second-generation model added a lot more substance to the original car's daring design, such as a more spacious interior, thereby making it easier to sell.

TV presenter Mike Brewer, Used Car Awards host, said: ''The Nissan Juke broke new ground when it launched - it looked like nothing else on the road, and you can still say the same! Some funky designs age badly, but not the Juke's. Not only do I like the way the car looks but, as a used car dealer myself, I love the variety that's available – there are loads of trim levels and special editions. It's easy to park, cost-efficient to run and looks good on any used car dealer's forecourt. It's a real winner in my book.''

However, not all used car dealerships here in Gloucestershire agree with the national accolade.

Mark Bainbridge, who runs Cotswold Cars of Stroud, based in the town's Wallbridge Industrial Estate, said: "I've had one for five months and been unable to shift it, thanks to an ongoing electrical problem. It's been a joke."

Mr Bainbridge said that the used car market was hunkering down amid harsh economic challenges as we move towards Christmas. "Our hope is that inflation continues to move in the right direction because, as things are, people are so worried about paying central heating bills that they simply don't have the budget for cars out there above £3,000. We have found that we now specialise in this level of car - they are popular and they sell well given the price - but not the Juke!"

Car Dealer Magazine collates its findings for awards upon "thousands of car retailers, plus MOT testing stations and workshops" and choices are subject to "a rigorous judging process and mystery shopping exercise" before any "gongs are handed out to the deserving winners".