Nissan is launching its re-born NISMO sub-division in Europe with a new sportier version of its successful Juke small crossover.
Following the Juke NISMO edition’s first public appearance supporting Nissan’s Le Mans 24hr race campaign in June, the production-ready model made its motor show debut today in Paris.
While there are plenty of cosmetic changes over the regular model, the Juke NISMO is much more than a styling package as it adds some zing to the crossover model via an engine and chassis tune.
Powering the Juke NISMO is an uprated version of the DiG-T model’s 1.6-litre, direct injection turbocharged petrol engine delivering 197Hp (200PS) at 6,000 rpm and 250Nm between 2,400-4,800 rpm, an increase of 9Hp and 10Nm respectively.
Nissan will offer the Juke NISMO in both 2WD and 4WD variants, the latter equipped with a CVT gearbox as standard.
The 2WD model accelerates from zero to 100km/h (62mph) in 7.8 seconds and has a maximum speed of 215 km/h (134 mph), while the 4WD model sprints from 0-100km/h in 8.2 seconds and tops out at 200 km/h (124 mph).
Nissan says that, even though the NISMO model offers improved performance over the standard 1.6-litre DiG-T model, fuel economy and CO2 emissions “are expected to be unaffected”.
The car’s chassis has been re-tuned to deliver improved cornering performance, grip and direct steering feel. According to the automaker, spring rates have been increased by 10 per cent, while the dampers and steering system have been modified.
The exterior package comprises an aerodynamic kit with new lower front and rear bumpers, wider wings and sill side skirts, along with a modified grille and tailgate spoiler. The Juke NISMO rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels shod in 225/45 R18 performance tires.
Inside the cabin, which is revealed here for the first time, the NISMO treatment brings redesigned sport seats, steering wheel, pedals, gauges, gear knob and door trims. Seating, steering and door surfaces are trimmed in Alcantara with accent red stitching.
Andy Palmer, Executive Vice President Global Product Planning, commented: “The introduction of Juke NISMO further cements our dedication to provide innovation and excitement for everyone. The Juke, with its radical design and pioneering attitude, is the natural choice to be one of the first Nissan models to receive the mythical performance and distinctive design treatment from our NISMO specialists.”
The Juke NISMO will be built at Nissan’s manufacturing plant in Sunderland, UK, alongside the other models of the series, with European sales to begin early next year. Nissan said pricing will be announced closer to launch.
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