Nissan Juke Nismo RS 2019 pricing and specs confirmed

Nissan Australia has launched its latest performance vehicle, this time in the form of the quirky Juke Nismo RS small SUV which is on sale now from $37,790 plus on-road costs.

Just 240 units are available, approximately 72 of which are in entry-level manual guise, while the rest feature a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The latter checks in at $41,490, and swaps the standard front-drive set-up for an 'Xtronic' all-wheel-drive (AWD) system with torque vectoring for improved handling.

While the manual misses out on AWD, it produces more power from its 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine at 160kW/280Nm, as opposed to the automatic's 157kW/250Nm output.

The Nismo badge brings a healthy list of styling and performance upgrades to the Juke, starting with the unique front grille, rear diffuser, red mirror caps, 10-spoke alloy wheels and exhaust system.

Inside, the Nismo RS gains a leather-accented shift knob, a leather and Alcantara steering wheel and suede sports seats with red stitching.

Furthermore, the car is equipped with a red tachometer and branded front kick plates and carpet mats, a gloss black centre console, door trim and air vents as well as a carbon-look finish around the 5.8-inch touchscreen display and shifter surrounds.

Nissan Australia managing director Stephen Lester said he was confident the Juke flagship is a true Nismo performance vehicle.

"The Nismo brand and its range of cars are admired all over the world, we are delighted to offer small SUV buyers a Nismo option," he said.

"The Juke Nismo RS has the increased power and torque expected of a Nismo model, and a design that is consistent with its Nismo siblings."

Further aiding in performance, the Nismo RS has undergone a significant suspension overhaul as well as being given improved aerodynamics, a revised power steering calibration and larger ventilated brake discs with uprated pads.

The Nismo RS shares its safety equipment list with the Ti-S grade, featuring front, front-side and curtain airbags, two ISOFIX anchor points, electronic brakeforce distribution, lane departure warning, blind spot warning, a surround-view monitor and moving object detection.

The car is available in three colours, 'Ivory Pearl', 'Pearl Black' and 'Platinum' and can be optioned with a premium suede interior trim.

Is the Nissan Juke Nismo RS worthy of its name? Tell us your thoughts in the comment section below.