At this years’ New York Auto Show, Nissan surprised the crowds with the 2011 Nissan JUKE Sport Cross. The JUKE is the next competitor to enter the compact crossover/hatchback segment. With its roots in a variety of lifestyle influences like motorcycles and rally cars, the JUKE packs quite the punch in a small package.
[singlepic id=3595 w=440 h=330]
“JUKE is about to carve out a unique space in the rapidly growing compact crossover/hatchback segment with its combination of striking design, agile handling and driving pleasure and user friendly technology,” said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. “Add in the convenience, versatility and high seating positioning of a traditional compact SUV – and pricing that is expected to start at just under $20,000 – and you’ve got a vehicle unlike any other in its class.”
Powering JUKE is a standard 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline (DIGTM) Turbo, 16-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy inline 4-cylinder engine rated at 180+ horsepower and 170+ lb-ft of torque. The engine, the first application in North America, combines energetic performance and good fuel economy. Two transmissions are offered – Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVTTM (Continuously Variable Transmission) with S-Mode and a 6-speed manual transmission (SV FWD and SL FWD models only).
[Gallery=259]
Another new-to-Nissan technology debuting on JUKE is the innovative Integrated Control (I-CON) system. The I-CON system functions in one setting as a controller for the automatic climate control system, and in the other offers a drive mode selector with three different throttle/transmission (CVT)/steering response settings – Normal for everyday driving, Sport for a more intense performance feel and Eco for maximum efficiency.
For more on the JUKE, visit the dedicated website for more images, video downloads, and info.
When will you do an actual driving review of this cool little ute? Thinking about adding a 2nd vehicle to the family garage and am extemely intrigued by this, what seems to be, real bang-for-your-buck vehicle.