Nissan Juke crossover gets sportier with Nismo treatment
Nissan added the performance-oriented Juke Nismo version to the lineup of its cool subcompact crossover four years ago, and for 2017 there are two versions available, the regular Nismo and the even-sportier Nismo RS, which has additional power.
Both can be equipped with either front-wheel drive with a six-speed manual transmission, or all-wheel drive with the special Nismo-tuned Xtronic continuously variable automatic.
For 2017, the base front-wheel-drive Nismo version starts at $24,830 (plus $940 freight), and an all-wheel-drive base model, with a sport-tuned continuously variable automatic transmission, for $27,230.
The RS models come with a version of the 1.6-liter turbo that kicks up the front-drive version to 215 horsepower and 210 foot-pounds of torque; and the all-wheel drive to 211 horsepower and 184 foot-pounds of torque.
The Nismo name is derived from NISssan MOtorsports, and until the Juke arrived, was reserved for more-expensive, advanced vehicles designed specifically with the track in mind.
Special features for both versions include 18-inch Nismo aluminum-alloy wheels, Nismo bodywork with red exterior accents, and a racing-inspired interior.
Other special touches included the RS logo on the speedometer, and a charcoal gray suede meter hood on top of the dash, with red stitching.
Standard are four-wheel antilock disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.
Performance-oriented, five-door, five-passenger, front- or all-wheel-drive, turbocharged four-cylinder, subcompact crossover utility vehicle