Nissan Launches the Juke Compact Sports Crossover

With the arrival of JUKE, Nissan ushers in a new genre of vehicles, the compact sports crossover. Developed for the global market, JUKE's unique styling offers a new look in the compact category, combining the agility of a compact sports car with the security and toughness of an SUV. From its sporty front and rear lights to its large, imposing fenders, JUKE stands out with bold design and strong imagery.

The JUKE name is equally original. Derived from an American football term used to describe a quick or sudden move taken by a running back to avoid a defensive player's tackle, the name was chosen to showcase JUKE's ability to deftly negotiate the challenges of work and everyday life.

JUKE also breaks new ground in offering the world's first mass-produced 1.5-liter engine (HR15DE) with dual injectors. Along with its standard new-generation Xtronic CVT™ transmission and rigid suspension, JUKE provides smooth acceleration, superior handling, improved driving stability and a comfortable ride.

All JUKE models have a low mileage consumption of 19.0km/L, a 15% improvement on 2010 mileage standards and 75% lower than 2005 emission standards (SU-LEV).

The new "Intelligent Control Display," a versatile multi-function information system, is another first for Nissan vehicles. The system provides updated driving information, such as mileage, and acts as central control panel for cabin environment and for dynamic drive settings. JUKE drivers can use the control panel to easily switch between three available driving modes: Normal, Sports and Eco-drive.

JUKE also features a new Xtronic CVT™ design that combines the efficiency of a Continuous Variable Transmission with a new 2-speed sub-gearbox system, resulting in a 20% improvement in gear ratio over conventional CVT systems - along with better acceleration, good response and quieter operation at high speeds. In addition to the sub-gearbox, the new design utilizes smaller and lighter pulleys, a flexible lock-up damper and a more fuel-efficient oil pump to promote greater fuel efficiency. And, its improved gear ratios, smaller and lighter pulleys and reduced oil resistance give it 30% less friction than conventional CVTs.

The new JUKE will also be offered with an all-new 1.6-liter engine (MR16DDT) equipped with a compact turbo charger, which combines good fuel efficiency with the power equivalent to a 2.5-liter engine (available from this autumn). MR engine equipped models will be available in 2WD and 4WD configurations. 4WD versions feature ALL MODE 4x4i with a newly developed torque vectoring system, which applies optimal torque distribution control of the rear wheels to enhance agility and cornering feel and reduce understeer when cornering.

JUKE's dramatic exterior styling projects an image of toughness and agility. Its raked front pillars allow for a large windshield area for improved all-around visibility, while its taut upper canopy with sloped rear roofline combines with its muscular lower body sides to emphasize its strength and sportiness. Embedded rear door handles, "hidden" in the rear pillars, emulate the design of a 2-door sports coupe.

One of the most distinctive features of the JUKE exterior is the unique headlight treatment, which utilizes large, rounded headlights mounted low in the nose and thin, high-mounted "slash" auxiliary lights mounted higher on the hood edge to create a radical, rally car-inspired appearance. The rear combination lights also project JUKE's sporty intentions, mimicking the sleek boomerang-like form found on the iconic Z® sports car.

The JUKE is available in seven exciting new colors, including "Radiant Red" (Pearl Metallic) and Meteorite Brown" (Metallic).

Credits: wilswong