Nissan Juke Nismo Concept

The Nissan Juke Nismo Concept, which has been unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, is the first sign that a series of performance-orientated Nismo models is being planned.

According to Nismo President, Shoichi Miyatani, “Nismo brings new levels of individuality to mainstream Nissan cars like Juke. The future for Nismo is to develop premium sports designs for an ever-widening range of customers. Our forthcoming range of cars will be just as accessible and innovative as every Nissan product, but with added Nismo energy they will be even more fun to own and drive.”

Nissan Juke Nismo Concept (2011) Front Side
Nissan Juke Nismo Concept (2011) Rear Side

Of course, there’s nothing new about having a high profile in-house tuning division: Mercedes-Benz has AMG and Renault has Renaultsport, for example. As a marketing strategy it makes a lot of sense, because a halo effect is created over lesser models. Buyers are happy too, since they’re getting a decently-sorted package complete with a normal factory warranty. Additionally, there shouldn’t be any of the resale hassles that are sometimes associated with aftermarket conversions.

For the Juke Nismo Concept, a body kit is fitted that’s claimed to reduce lift, while other components such as the door mirrors and rear spoiler have been tweaked for extra aerodynamic efficiency. Finished in pearl white paintwork with red highlights, the visual effect is completed by the fitment of large 19” alloy wheels. The result might be too outrageous for some, but at least the Juke could never be described as bland.

Nismo’s technical upgrades have been focussed on an unspecified power increase for the 1.6 litre turbo petrol engine, together with a lowered and stiffened suspension set-up.

On the inside the key differences are a pair of leather-upholstered sports seats and darkened cabin trim. Otherwise it’s mainly detail alterations, with items such as the pedals, instruments, steering wheel and gearshift knob all being replaced.

An on-sale date for a production version of the Nissan Juke Nismo has yet to be announced.

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