CROSSOVER GETS A MAKEOVER

Nissan releases a special Juke that’s limited to only 500 examples in PHL

THE UNIQUELY DESIGNED compact crossover Nissan Juke marks a year since it first burst onto the local automotive scene, and Nissan Philippines, Inc. (NPI) is looking back with gratitude at the vehicle’s undoubted success.

“The Nissan Juke is one of Nissan’s best-selling vehicles… embraced by the local market since its launch,” said Ramesh Narasimhan, NPI president and managing director, in a statement. Since its inception in 2014, the company has assumed an upward growth trajectory that’s propelled by new, exciting vehicles.

Obviously an important contributor to the brand’s success here, US magazine Car and Driver describes the oddly shaped Juke as “funky,” and the model indeed stands out from its competitors via a unique profile, falling roofline, and a face all its own. Featuring communicative steering, its X-Tronic continuously variable transmission gives ideal expression to a capable 1.6-liter engine with an exclusive dual-injection system (allowing the engine to realize output ratings of 114hp and 154Nm). Another notable feature is a power steering system that adjusts to the vehicle’s velocity. All told, the Juke is well equipped and appointed for its sub-P1 million starting tag.

Judging by the increased frequency of Juke sightings on the road, the model has clearly resonated in a growing number of car buyers who no doubt were attracted by the prospect of owning a bang-for-the-buck vehicle that also shuns the cookie cutter.

To further increase the desirability (and collectability) of the nameplate, NPI last week released a limited-edition version of the Juke — capped at only 500 units in the Philippines — which also celebrates the nameplate’s success.