2012 Nissan Juke: Video Road Test and Review

The Nissan Juke is a radically styled compact crossover introduced by the Japanese automaker in 2010.  The funky little CUV is available in three trim levels: S, SV and SL; but all are powered by the same 1.6 Liter turbocharged four cylinder with direct gasoline injection, making 188 HP and 177 lb-ft of torque driving either the front wheels or all four.  Gears can be shifted the traditional way with a manual, or not at all thanks to Nissan’s gas saving Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission, that returns as much as 27 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway when combined with the turbo four, with the all wheel drive version not far behind.

The Juke’s unique appearance is made up of a combination of large round curves emphasized by the crossover’s bold carved arches.  The Nissan’s headlights are mounted high up on the hood and oversized driving lamps located in the bumper, while the tails look like they came straight off of a 370Z.

On the inside, driver’s can use the Integrated Control or I-CON system to choose between SPORT and ECO driving modes.  The compact Juke also offers lots of storage space, thanks to a hidden tray in the trunk and offers up to 35.9 cubic feet for cargo with the 60/40 split folding rear seats all the way down.  MSRP for the Juke starts at $19,770 for the base S, goes up to $21,080 for the SV and climbs all the way up to $23,400 for the top of the line SL.  The Nissan Juke was also chosen to be a Top Safety Pick for 2011 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

A lsit of cars similar to the Juke includes the 2012 Mini Cooper, 2012 Volvo C70 and 2012 Hyundai Veloster.

See more details about the 2012 Nissan Juke.