The Nissan Juke has redefined what car-shoppers have come to expect from their compact-crossovers. And with the help of their in-house tuning team, Nismo, Nissan arrived at the Tokyo Motor Show with a bold new Juke.

From an ultra-modern, fun-to-drive CUV to an ultra-modern, high-performance CUV, the Juke's transformation was met with overwhelming approval in Tokyo. We're not surprised, as Andy Palmer, Executive VP, Nissan Motor Co., says, "The global sales success of Nissan Juke has proved beyond doubt that customers are looking for something different. The Juke Nismo Concept takes that idea to the next level. It's energetic, distinctive and highly desirable."1

What makes it so desirable? Major changes included a power-tuned engine, a stiffer chassis and larger tires for better handling, a sportier interior, and the signature Nismo look. Breaking that down a bit, the Juke Nismo concept gets a fiercer look with a lower and wider stance, a new grille pattern and a refined rear spoiler and door shape to optimize aerodynamics. The 19'' alloy wheels and signature Pearl White and Red Nismal colors further accentuate the sport-driven Juke concept.

The interior got some sporty details, too - including redesigned driving components, leather bucket seats, a center console inspired by a motorcycle fuel tank, and red and metallic accents. In a recent press release, Nissan said of the inside of the car, "Parts that interact with the driver's sense of sight, sound, look and feel...have been redesigned to provide greater involvement when driving."²

As of yet, however, Nissan hasn't released any details about the powerplant of the Juke Nismo. Don't worry, just like you, we'll be waiting very impatiently for details about any changes being made to the 1.6-liter engine found in the production model Juke. No word yet on if it could go into production, but rumor has it that if it does, we can expect to see it in the early part of 2012.

Royal Nissan can hardly wait! That said, be sure to stay tuned with us for more updates. Want to see why the original Nissan Juke has taken the auto industry by storm? Stop into our showroom at 9325 Airline Highway Baton Rouge, LA 70815 and take one for a spin. Be sure to contact us via our website anytime with questions or to learn more about any of the new Nissan models in our inventory.

Source: ^1,2 http://www.nissannews.com/newsrelease.do;jsessionid=A1CD658819FD711AFB25B7F9B5B03739?&id=3067&allImage=1&teaser=nissan-reveals-juke-nismo-concept-tokyo&mid=