Nissan Juke Excels In Affordable Sportiness at Kelly Nissan

Call it a crossover, or call it a tall hatchback, the 2011 Nissan Juke is a bit of an oddball when compared to other vehicles in its class. While its bold styling may scare some consumers away, its looks and proportions may also prove to be the key to the Juke’s success.

All-new for the 2011 model year, the Juke is the first Nissan in the U.S. to be powered by a direct-injection, turbocharged four cylinder engine.  This unit produces an impressive 188 horsepower and promises to give the relatively lightweight Juke spirited performance.

The starting price of the Juke S model including destination charge is $19,760, which includes with front-wheel drive and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). If you want the added traction of all-wheel drive, it will be around $21,260.

The Juke will be compared with other sport utility vehicles,but don’t be surprised if the Juke is labeled differently than other small SUVs. While it looks like a crossover that allows occupants to sit up high over the pavement, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency actually labels the Juke a small station wagon. And, don’t be surprised if you hear it called a hatchback either, even despite its beefy dimensions.

Aside from its unusual styling, the Juke truly offers a package that is new to this segment. For starters, the Juke is certainly fuel efficient (25 mpg city/30 mph highway) and affordable just like its competitors. However, the Juke’s turbocharged powertrain and available torque-vectoring all-wheel drive give this vehicle a level of sportiness that is otherwise void in this segment. For those looking for a compact SUV that happens to be fun to drive, there are few better options.  Come by Kelly Nissan to get behind the wheel and see what all the excitement is about.  Who knows, you just may fall in love!