Nissan reveals Juke Nismo Concept at Tokyo Motor Show

Side skirts, wider fenders and revised bumpers visually distinguish the Juke Nismo. Completing the effect is Nismo's signature pearl white paint with red highlights. (Photo: Nissan)

2010. Some called it ugly, others said it was funky, and then there were those who thought it was cute. While its looks are subjective, the Juke has undeniably caught many people's attention and is continuing to do so at this year's Tokyo Motor Show. That's because Nissan has unveiled its new Juke Nismo Concept, a more performance-oriented version of the Juke.

Nismo is Nissan's motorsports and performance division, and has competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Formula Nippon and the FIA GT Championship. Over the years, Nismo has created performance parts and specialty vehicles for enthusiasts the world over.

The Juke Nismo Concept is distinguished from the standard Juke by its side skirts, wider fenders and revised front and rear bumpers. Its body kit was designed by the aerodynamic specialists at Nismo, who honed their skills styling race cars. True to the Nismo heritage, the Juke Nismo Concept is finished in Nismo's signature paint scheme: pearl white with red highlights.

A lowered ride height and 19-inch wheels and tires help the Juke Concept stick in the corners. (Photo: Nissan)

"The global sales success of Nissan Juke has proved beyond doubt that customers are looking for something different," said Andy Palmer, Executive Vice President, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. "The Juke Nismo Concept takes that idea to the next level. It's energetic, distinctive and highly desirable."

Helping take the Juke Nismo Concept to the next level is a lower ride height and stiffer chassis. The Juke Nismo Concept rides on large 19-inch alloy wheels and tires for better handling, and produces more power from its 1.6-litre direct injection turbocharged engine than the standard Juke, although specific performance numbers were not released by Nissan.

Inside, the Juke Nismo Concept features redesigned foot pedals, gauges and door trim as well as a redesigned steering wheel and shift knob. There are also leather-trimmed bucket seats that add to the sporting flair.

"As the Concept shows, 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," said Nismo President, Shoichi Miyatani. "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."©(Copyright Canadian Auto Press)]]>