The Nissan Juke Nismo 1.6 (200 Hp) AWD Xtronic, produced from March 2013 to May 2014, represents a performance-oriented variant of the first-generation Juke (F15). Positioned as the flagship trim level, it aimed to inject a dose of sporty character into Nissan’s quirky subcompact crossover. This model was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, offering a more engaging driving experience than the standard Juke variants. The Juke Nismo capitalized on the growing popularity of small, customizable SUVs, appealing to a younger demographic seeking a unique and dynamic vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Juke |
| Generation | Juke I (facelift 2014) |
| Type (Engine) | Nismo 1.6 (200 Hp) AWD Xtronic |
| Start of production | March, 2013 |
| End of production | May, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.2 kg/Hp, 139.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 123.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2400-4800 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 2400-4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | MR16DDT |
| Engine displacement | 1618 cm3 (98.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.7 mm (3.14 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.1 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.1 l (8.56 US qt | 7.13 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1846 kg (4069.73 lbs.) |
| Max load | 416 kg (917.12 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 207 l (7.31 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 786 l (27.76 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1150 kg (2535.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 728 kg (1604.97 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4165 mm (163.98 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2530 mm (99.61 in.) |
| Front track | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Front overhang | 860 mm (33.86 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 770 mm (30.31 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 22° |
| Departure angle | 25° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 23° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Xtronic CVT |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Juke Nismo is the MR16DDT, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a variable valve timing system (DOHC) to optimize performance and efficiency. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, boosts power output to 200 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 2400 and 4800 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes low-end torque for responsive acceleration. The Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) was the sole transmission option, offering smooth, stepless gear changes. While CVTs aren’t typically favored by enthusiasts, Nissan tuned this unit for a more engaging experience, including simulated gear shifts in a “Sport” mode.
Driving Characteristics
The Juke Nismo 1.6 AWD Xtronic delivers a surprisingly agile driving experience for a small crossover. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction, particularly in inclement weather. The CVT, while not offering the direct feel of a traditional automatic, is programmed to hold lower “gears” longer under hard acceleration, mimicking a conventional transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 7.8 seconds. Compared to the base Juke’s 1.6-liter engine, the Nismo variant offers a significant performance boost. However, the CVT does detract somewhat from the sporty character, and the engine can feel strained at higher RPMs. Compared to the 1.5 dCi diesel variants, the Nismo prioritizes outright power over fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Nismo trim level included a number of visual and functional upgrades over the standard Juke. Standard features included sport seats with unique Nismo fabric, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a Nismo-specific body kit with aggressive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Inside, the Nismo featured aluminum pedal covers and a dark headliner. Optional extras included navigation, a premium audio system, and parking sensors. The interior, while functional, prioritized a sporty aesthetic over luxurious materials.
Chassis & Braking
The Juke Nismo features a MacPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. The suspension was tuned for a firmer ride and improved handling. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. The Nismo variant also benefited from a slightly stiffer chassis compared to the standard Juke, further enhancing handling precision. The electric power steering offered light and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Juke Nismo was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its distinctive styling and engaging driving dynamics. However, the CVT transmission was a common point of criticism, with some reviewers finding it less responsive than a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. Fuel economy was respectable, averaging around 31.8 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to other small crossovers, the Juke Nismo stood out for its bold design and sporty character. The diesel-powered Jukes offered superior fuel economy, while the base petrol models were more affordable.
Legacy
The Nissan Juke Nismo 1.6 AWD Xtronic remains a relatively uncommon vehicle on the used car market. The MR16DDT engine, while generally reliable, requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and turbocharger inspections. The CVT transmission is known to be durable if properly maintained, but can be expensive to repair or replace. Today, the Juke Nismo is appreciated by enthusiasts for its unique styling and sporty driving experience, representing a distinctive chapter in Nissan’s crossover history. Its blend of performance and practicality continues to appeal to a niche audience seeking a fun and unconventional vehicle.
