Compare: 2011 Nissan Juke vs. 2011 MINI Countryman

If you're looking for a stylish compact crossover with a little power under the hood, then the 2011 Nissan Juke and 2011 MINI Countryman are worth comparing. Both models boast head-turning aesthetics and provide a little extra zip without sacrificing too many mpgs. Keep reading to compare the 2011 Nissan Juke and 2011 MINI Countryman to determine which model is right for you.

Styling: 2011 Nissan Juke vs. 2011 MINI Countryman

For many, the cutesy, European inspired design of the MINI Countryman is love at first sight. While this may be the case for some when checking out the Juke, the bolder design of the Nissan means its open to a bit more controversy in the category of exterior appeal. If you like the way the Juke looks, then that means you’re a fan of muscular vehicles with rippling wheel lines and slanted rooflines. If you find the Juke too "out there," then chances are you'll prefer the slightly subdued look of the MINI Countryman.

While maximum seating capacity for the Juke is listed at five, shoppers should by and large consider the vehicle a two-seater. On the other hand, the MINI Countryman offers good rear seating for even those 6-foot and above. With seats down, the Juke offers a maximum of 35.9 cubic feet of storage. In comparison, the MINI maxes out at 41.3 cubic feet.

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Performance: 2011 Nissan Juke vs. 2011 MINI Countryman

Compare the specifications of the Juke and MINI Countryman, and it becomes clear that the Juke delivers a more exhilarating ride right out of the gate. Base Juke models receive a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four engine that musters an impressive 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft. of torque. The base MINI Countryman, on the other hand, receive a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 121 horsepower and 114 lb-ft. of torque.

While not as quick as the base Nissan Juke, that doesn't mean the base MINI is a snooze to drive. Of course, if you find those engine specs disappointing, you can always upgrade to the Countryman S (181 horsepower).

The thriftier base engine of the MINI Countryman results in superior fuel efficiency. At its best, the MINI returns 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway (32 mpg combined). The Nissan Juke offers a maximum of 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway (29 mpg combined).

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Safety: 2011 Nissan Juke vs. 2011 MINI Countryman

All 2011 MINI Countryman come equipped with antilock disc brakes, front side airbags and stability control. Hatchback models also come standard with side curtain airbags. Traction control is available as an option. The 2011 Nissan Juke boasts a similar safety package. However, all Juke models come standard with stability control.

In crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2011 MINI Countryman received a best-possible rating of "Good" in frontal offset tests and a second-best rating of "Average" in side impact tests. The Nissan Juke earned a rating of "Good" in both categories.

Pricing and Features: 2011 Nissan Juke vs. 2011 MINI Countryman

The 2011 Nissan Juke starts around $19,000, while the MINI Countryman begins around $21,650. Standard features for the vehicles are comparable, with both starting models coming equipped with full power accessories, cruise control, keyless entry, air conditioning and a six-speaker stereo. The base Juke adds Bluetooth, while the MINI Countryman adds leatherette upholstery.

Both models offer sportier and more luxurious upgrades. Choose to upgrade to a quicker engine on the MINI, and expect to see the price tag increase dramatically. Top of the line MINI Countryman models go for $26,950. In contrast, pricing for the Nissan Juke tops out around $23,200.

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