Friday, October 21, 2011

In the driveway: 2011 Nissan Juke SL AWD

We just got the 2011 Nissan Juke SL AWD for review this week—a very interesting vehicle. It's kind of like that person you went to school with that was kinda out there, somewhat weird, sorta artsy ... but kind of hot, too.

So what does that mean? It means it's totally different looking than anything else on the road, but is powered by a turbocharged, direct-injection 1.6-liter engine making 188 horsepower and 177 ft./lbs. of torque, which is quite thrusty and fun. It's also got AWD, which is pretty cool. However, somewhat oddly, power is put down through a CVT, and let's face it: it is kind of strange to look at, but intriguing, too. Thus far, the combo actually works pretty darn well. There is plenty of go, and the interior is spaceship-like in a good way. So far, I'm quite impressed and even somewhat smitten with the funky Juke.

More to come from Mercedes and me on this one, so stay tuned.

5 comments:

D2M said...

This car doesn't look as weird in person as it does in pictures. To me, in person, it just looks different--in the good way. I actually think the looks make it more memorable and interesting. :)

Anonymous said...

Pontiac Aztek 2.0

hot rod air ride said...

Never actually seen one in pictures. All i know is that this subcompact rules and I want it.

CGS Motorsports said...

It's impressive, really. Where more can you see a cooler subcompact than this one?

Duke said...

I really like the Juke but the front end is too offensive. Give it normal headlights and do something about that air dam and I'd seriously consider having one. As is, it's the ugliest new car on the market. A body kit could take care of the air dam but nothing but a redesign will remedy those headlamps. They're mounted flush with the top of the hood! Bad Nissan designers, bad!

Yes, for once I want a Nissan to be more conservative. What has the world come to?

Regardless, looking forward to a thorough review.