Introduction
Nissan's Juke, which looks like a small crossover but is classified as a small station wagon by the EPA, is a funky 4-door with polarizing style paired with turbocharged performance. The 2013 Nissan Juke debuts with a new Midnight Edition package, rearview camera, available upgraded sound system, and a Nismo model offering more power and a sportier appearance.
Exterior Features
Unlike some other base models, the 2013 Nissan Juke's entry-level S variant includes amenities such as 17-inch alloy wheels and power-adjustable outside mirrors, but buyers will need to move up to the Juke SV for a standard power tilt/slide moonroof and rear privacy glass. The SL trim level adds automatic headlights and fog lights.
Visually, the Nismo stands apart from other 2013 Juke models courtesy of 18-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, tinted headlights, and other styling cues including red mirrors, body-color fender flares, lower body kit, and a unique grille.
Interior Features
Inside, the 5-passenger 2013 Nissan Juke S features front bucket seats with 6-way adjustment for the driver, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, iPod-compatible 6-speaker sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, exterior temperature gauge, and a tilt steering wheel with integrated buttons for cruise control and audio. Common comfort and convenience items, including air conditioning and power door locks with keyless entry, are also included. The Juke SV adds automatic climate control, push-button start, upgraded cloth upholstery, leather trim, and satellite radio service.
Nissan avails buyers of the 2013 Juke SL to more upscale standard equipment, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium sound system featuring a USB port and subwoofer. The SL also offers a standard navigation system with a 5-inch touch-screen display and real-time traffic information. Reflecting its sporty nature, the Juke Nismo comes equipped with a special tachometer, embroidered seat trim with red stitching, upgraded leather on the steering wheel and shift knob, and deeply bolstered front bucket seats.
Optional Features
Two factory options are available for the 2013 Nissan Juke, one of which is a new Midnight Edition package that upgrades S, SV and SL models with black 17-inch alloy wheels, black mirrors, and a black rear spoiler.
A Navigation package is also offered for SV and Nismo trims, and features the navigation system and upgraded audio components that are standard on the Juke SL.
Under the Hood
Nissan equips all 2013 Jukes with a direct-injection, 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine; a 6-speed manual gearbox is available on FWD models only, whereas a continuously variable transmission (CVT) is offered on FWD and AWD Juke variants. In S, SV and SL trim, engine output measures 188 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft. of torque, while the Juke Nismo is tuned to deliver 197 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. Nissan recommends premium-grade gasoline for all Jukes.
Supporting the powertrain is a chassis that includes an independent front suspension with a rear torsion beam (FWD models) or multi-link (AWD models) setup. The 2013 Nissan Juke Nismo is upgraded with sport-tuned shocks, springs and steering.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy estimates for the 2013 Nissan Juke are:
- Juke FWD with 6-speed manual transmission: 25/31/27 mpg (city/highway/combined)
- Juke FWD with CVT: 27/32/29 mpg
- Juke AWD with CVT: 25/30/27 mpg
Safety
The 2013 Nissan Juke's standard safety features include 6 air bags, traction control, front active head restraints, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and a rearview camera on SL models.
In government crash tests, the 2013 Nissan Juke received an overall rating of 4 (out of 5) stars, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Juke received a "Good" rating--the Institute's highest--for moderate frontal-offset crash protection; the 2013 Juke also received a "Top Safety Pick" designation from the Institute.
Technology
The integrated control system, standard on the SV trim and above, features climate control and driver's modes, and consists of a digital display, rotary knobs and buttons located on the instrument panel. The script on the buttons changes depending on which mode is selected, with the driver's mode, for example, offering normal, sport and eco settings that adjust steering and throttle response.
