First there were the race cars and a string of competition victories. Then a line of performance parts and accessories and the legendary R34 Skyline GT-R. Followed by more racers, victories and growing global brand awareness through electronic video games. Then came special NISMO versions of the Nissan 350Z and 370Z. Now, as NISMO approaches 50 years as Nissan’s competition and street performance experts, Nissan is expanding NISMO’s presence among the Nissan lineup with the introduction of the 2013 JUKE NISMO.
Offered in a choice of front-wheel drive with 6-speed manual transmission or all-wheel drive with NISMO-tuned CVT transmission, the new JUKE NISMO takes JUKE’s bold presence in the compact crossover segment to a whole new dimension of attainable performance.
We Lika tha Juke…
The modifications to the standard JUKE start with the racing-inspired NISMO exterior. Far from being purely cosmetic, the modifications are designed to enhance the JUKE NISMO’s aerodynamics, resulting in a 37-percent improvement (versus non-NISMO models) in downforce. Exterior features include NISMO front and rear fascias and side sills with a distinctive red stripe, a new grille and light treatment with LED accent lights, extended body-colored wheel flares and unique rear spoiler. The wheelwell gap (space between the tires and fenders) has been reduced through lowering of the suspension and use of new 18-inch lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels, helping give JUKE NISMO a more aggressive stance. Three exterior colors are available on JUKE NISMO: Sapphire Black, Brilliant Silver and Pearl White.
Inside, the special NISMO interior combines dark finishes and red accents. The leather and Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel includes a racing-inspired red top-center marking, while the special NISMO-style sport front seats offer increased bolstering for added support and comfort while cornering, along with NISMO logos and red stitching.
Like all 2013 JUKE models, the JUKE NISMO is built on Nissan’s proven global B-platform. The advanced1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG™) Turbo, 16-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy inline 4-cylinder engine is rated at 197 horsepower (versus non-NISMO models’ 188 horsepower) and torque has been increased to 184 lb-ft (versus 177 lb-ft). Along with the modified suspension and CVT, the steering effort has been tuned for additional feel at medium and high speeds.
As with other JUKE AWD models, JUKE NISMO AWD comes standard with the advanced torque vectoring AWD system, which splits torque up to 50:50 between the front and rear wheels and can also can split torque from side-to-side across the rear axle. When cornering, the system helps reduce understeer and enhance the vehicle’s cornering feel.
Also offered is the innovative Integrated Control (I-CON) system that combines control of the automatic A/C and the three-mode drive selector – Normal for everyday driving; Sport for a more intense performance feel; and Eco for maximum efficiency – adjusting throttle, transmission (CVT) and steering feel.
Along with the special NISMO interior treatments, the interior design includes JUKE’s unique high-gloss paint finished center console, which is inspired by a motorcycle fuel tank. The gearshift is located on top of the console, with a high-mounted shift lever for sporty driving. In the rear, a fold-down 60/40-split bench seat and flat load floor provide passenger and cargo hauling flexibility.
Other available features include a RearView Monitor, Nissan Navigation System with NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Information (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately) and standard Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Ignition. Safety features include six air bags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).