There’s a brand-new loud-and-proud Nissan Juke out on the streets. Ripping up the tarmac is the Nissan Juke Nismo RS, available across Dorset and Somerset at Howards Group showrooms. The RS is the new Nismo and it’s a hot hatch with a difference. What’s the difference? The RS is the difference. Because it’s just, well, different.
West-Country car showrooms have never seen a Nissan like this one. The Juke has been a trend-setter since 2010 when its bold and brash looks caused the small SUV sector to gasp in wonder. The latest version of the Juke is no less radical. In fact, it’s about as subtle as an erupting volcano.
But that’s why you’re going to love it. Just as you loved the original Juke, which converted thousands from superminis to small crossover SUVs. This, though, is aimed squarely at the hot-hatch market. Let’s see if it can do some damage.
If your normal Juke looks like common-or-garden Qashqai that’s been training for a heavyweight boxing bout, the Juke Nismo RS, with its chunky body kit, could put Manny Pacquaio on the canvas in round one.
Let’s start at the front, where the RS seems to snarl. There’s a front splitter and dual gaping grilles that suck in the air that will convert the fuel into monster munch. Wheel arches are flared, alloys are 18-inch, side skirts are deeper then ever and the wheelbase is nice and short. It’s a chunky, funky look.
Other styling details give the Nismo RS a low, wide look. There’s a deep bumper at the back and a tailpipe that clearly means business. The boot-lip spoiler spoils nothing and the red accents on the brake callipers and mirrors add a racy accent colour. The car looks hotter than a chili pepper in a pizza oven.
Drivers will love the inside. There’s the Alcantra-wrapped steering wheel, suede sports seats and contrast red stitching that adds another sporty touch. Add Recaro seats for just £1,300 and you’ll feel like you’re sitting on a bomb.
When you’re waiting at the lights, you can fiddle around with the climate and cruise control, and the 5.8-inch touchscreen for the sat-nav and reversing camera.
Nissan has added stiffer dampers, limited-slip differential and heftier front brakes that elevate the performance. You’ll enjoy a smoother ride and the 215 horses straining at the reins will gallop to 60mph in less than eight seconds. This isn’t a car for taking any grand tours of Europe, certainly not with adults in the back, but kids will love it and it should earn some great playground bragging rights.
There’s plenty of space to put your stuff – over 350 litres in the boot, which can even be divided up to create a private, secure area.
In summary, you’re different, so buy the car that celebrates that difference!