Chicago Auto Show: 2014 Nissan Nismo

by Alex L. Dykes

Published: February 7th, 2013

Nissan’s motorsports division doesn’t think it has enough brand awareness in America. To counter this perception, Nissan tossed out a few NISMO (NISsan MOtorsports) models at the Chicago Auto Show. First up we have the Juke NISMO which is Nissan’s oddly shaped small crossover vehicle. The NISMO treatment makes the Juke look even more conspicuous on American roads with shapes and styles never before seen on a production vehicle. Whatever you do, don’t look up Juke in the Urban Dictionary while at work.

Thankfully the NISMO package isn’t just a styling exercise, Nissan also tosses in some cabin upgrades, faux-suede trim and a power boost. The same 1.6L engine is found under the funky hood but now cranks out 197HP and 184 lb-ft of torque. The CVT and 5-speed manual remain the only transmission options and of course AWD can be had for a price. While this is a far cry from the fire-breathing Juke R, it may help you escape the hoards of villagers with pitchforks.

Far more attractive is the Nissan 370Z NISMO gets extensive braking, suspension and styling tweaks in addition to a 350HP version of Nissan’s 3.7L V6 engine. Nissan promises improved downforce and even more fun out on the track. That should just about compensate for the extra 6.2 inches in length the NISMO Z brings to your garage. (Thank the re-tweaked front end for that.)

#370Z #370ZNISMO #AlexL.Dykes #ChicagoAutoShow #Juke #Nismo #Nissan #Nissan370z #NissanJuke #Z

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2 of 11 comments

Bnolt on Feb 07, 2013

Egads! The latest and possibly greatest example of why I sometimes long for the days when all you could get were sealed beams. Just because you can form plastic into odd, disturbing shapes, doesn't mean you should.

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Speed3 on Feb 08, 2013

I shall call you the Nissan Jismo. Wah wah...

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