2014 Nissan Juke Nismo RS: Review, Specs & Performance

by Alex Braham 55 views

The 2014 Nissan Juke Nismo RS is a performance-enhanced version of the already quirky and fun Nissan Juke. It's designed for those who want a bit more excitement and sportiness from their compact crossover. This model year brought significant upgrades over the standard Nismo variant, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts. Let's dive into what makes the 2014 Juke Nismo RS a compelling option, covering everything from its engine and performance to its interior, exterior, and overall driving experience.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2014 Nissan Juke Nismo RS is its upgraded engine. It features a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces 215 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque in the front-wheel-drive (FWD) version. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant, however, has a slightly lower torque output at 184 lb-ft to accommodate the different drivetrain. This engine is a significant step up from the standard Juke and even the base Nismo model, offering a noticeable boost in power and responsiveness.

Performance Specs

  • Engine: 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4
  • Horsepower: 215 hp (FWD), slightly less for AWD
  • Torque: 210 lb-ft (FWD), 184 lb-ft (AWD)
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual (FWD), CVT (AWD)
  • 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.0 seconds (FWD Manual)
  • Top Speed: Around 135 mph

The engine enhancements aren't just about raw numbers; they translate to a more engaging driving experience. The turbocharger spools up quickly, providing ample low-end torque that makes the Juke Nismo RS feel eager off the line. Mid-range acceleration is also strong, making it fun for overtaking and merging onto highways. The engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission (FWD models) or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for AWD models. The manual transmission is the preferred choice for enthusiasts, offering precise shifts and better control over the engine's power.

Driving Dynamics

Beyond the engine, the 2014 Juke Nismo RS benefits from several chassis and suspension upgrades that enhance its handling. These include:

  • Upgraded Suspension: Stiffer springs and dampers reduce body roll and improve cornering stability.
  • Limited-Slip Differential (LSD): FWD models get a mechanical limited-slip differential that helps to distribute power evenly to the front wheels, reducing wheelspin and improving traction during hard acceleration.
  • Torque Vectoring AWD: AWD models feature torque vectoring, which can send power to the outside rear wheel in corners to help rotate the car and improve agility.
  • Enhanced Brakes: Larger front and rear disc brakes provide improved stopping power and resistance to fade during spirited driving.
  • Steering: The electric power steering system has been recalibrated to provide more feedback and a more direct feel.

Collectively, these upgrades transform the Juke from a quirky crossover into a genuinely fun-to-drive machine. The handling is sharp and responsive, with minimal body roll in corners. The steering is precise, and the brakes offer excellent stopping power. Whether you're carving up backroads or navigating city streets, the Juke Nismo RS delivers an engaging and rewarding driving experience.

Interior Features and Design

Stepping inside the 2014 Nissan Juke Nismo RS, you'll find a sporty and well-appointed cabin that reflects its performance-oriented character. The interior is designed to provide a comfortable and engaging environment for the driver and passengers, with several unique touches that set it apart from the standard Juke models.

Key Interior Features

  • Nismo RS Seats: The most noticeable upgrade is the Recaro front bucket seats. These seats offer excellent support and bolstering, keeping you firmly in place during spirited driving. They're also comfortable enough for long road trips, making them a great compromise between performance and comfort.
  • Nismo RS Steering Wheel: The Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel feels great in your hands and provides a premium touch. It features a red center stripe at the 12 o'clock position, which is a subtle but effective reminder of the car's sporting intentions.
  • Nismo RS Gauges: The instrument cluster features unique Nismo RS gauges with red accents, adding to the sporty ambiance of the interior. The gauges are easy to read and provide all the essential information you need while driving.
  • Aluminum Pedals and Footrest: Aluminum pedals and a footrest add a touch of sportiness to the footwell. They not only look good but also provide a better grip than standard rubber pedals.
  • Dark Interior Trim: The interior is finished in dark materials, with red accents on the seats, steering wheel, and other trim pieces. This creates a cohesive and sporty look that's both stylish and functional.
  • NissanConnect with Navigation: The infotainment system includes a touchscreen display with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and other features. While it's not the most modern system on the market, it's easy to use and provides all the essential functions you need.

The overall quality of the interior is good for its class, with soft-touch materials used in key areas. The design is modern and sporty, with a focus on providing a comfortable and engaging driving experience. While the rear seats can be a bit cramped for taller passengers, the front seats offer plenty of room and support. The cargo area is also reasonably sized, making the Juke Nismo RS practical enough for everyday use.

Ergonomics and Comfort

The ergonomics of the interior are generally good, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The Recaro seats provide excellent support, and the steering wheel is comfortable to hold. The driving position is also good, offering a clear view of the road ahead. However, some drivers may find the limited rear visibility to be a drawback.

In terms of comfort, the Juke Nismo RS strikes a good balance between sportiness and practicality. The seats are comfortable enough for long trips, and the ride quality is decent, considering the car's performance-oriented suspension. However, the ride can be a bit firm on rough roads, which may not be to everyone's liking.

Exterior Design and Styling

The 2014 Nissan Juke Nismo RS makes a bold statement with its distinctive and aggressive exterior design. It retains the Juke's quirky and polarizing styling but adds several unique touches that set it apart from the standard models. These enhancements not only improve the car's appearance but also enhance its aerodynamic performance.

Key Exterior Features

  • Nismo RS Aero Kit: The most noticeable upgrade is the Nismo RS aero kit, which includes a revised front fascia, side skirts, and rear spoiler. These additions give the car a more aggressive and sporty look while also improving its aerodynamic efficiency.
  • Red Accents: Red accents are used throughout the exterior, including on the front splitter, side mirrors, and rear bumper. These red accents add a touch of sportiness and help to visually connect the car to the Nismo brand.
  • Unique Wheels: The Juke Nismo RS comes with unique 18-inch alloy wheels that are designed to complement its sporty styling. These wheels not only look good but also help to improve the car's handling.
  • Nismo RS Badging: Nismo RS badging is prominently displayed on the front grille, rear hatch, and side sills, letting everyone know that this is no ordinary Juke.
  • Sport Exhaust: The Juke Nismo RS features a sport exhaust system with a larger diameter and a more aggressive sound. This exhaust not only sounds great but also helps to improve the engine's performance.
  • HID Headlights: High-intensity discharge (HID) headlights provide improved visibility compared to standard halogen headlights. They also give the car a more modern and upscale look.

The overall design of the Juke Nismo RS is bold and eye-catching. It's a car that's sure to turn heads wherever you go. While some may find the Juke's styling to be a bit too quirky, there's no denying that the Nismo RS version adds a level of aggression and sportiness that's hard to ignore.

Aerodynamics and Functionality

Beyond its styling, the exterior design of the Juke Nismo RS also serves a functional purpose. The aero kit helps to improve the car's aerodynamic efficiency, reducing drag and improving stability at high speeds. The rear spoiler, in particular, helps to generate downforce, which improves the car's handling in corners.

The Juke Nismo RS is also surprisingly practical, with a decent amount of cargo space and a comfortable ride. It's a car that can be used for everyday commuting, weekend road trips, and even light track duty. Whether you're looking for a fun and sporty daily driver or a weekend toy, the Juke Nismo RS is a versatile option.

Driving Experience

The 2014 Nissan Juke Nismo RS truly shines when you get behind the wheel. It offers a unique and engaging driving experience that's hard to find in other compact crossovers. The combination of a powerful turbocharged engine, upgraded suspension, and sporty interior makes it a joy to drive in a variety of conditions.

On the Road

On the road, the Juke Nismo RS feels quick and responsive. The engine provides plenty of power for merging onto highways and overtaking other vehicles. The manual transmission (in FWD models) is a joy to use, with precise shifts and a light clutch. The steering is also well-weighted and provides good feedback, making it easy to place the car accurately on the road.

The upgraded suspension helps to keep the car planted in corners, with minimal body roll. The limited-slip differential (in FWD models) also helps to improve traction, allowing you to put the power down effectively. The brakes are strong and provide good pedal feel, giving you confidence when stopping from high speeds.

On the Track

While the Juke Nismo RS is primarily designed for road use, it's also surprisingly capable on the track. The engine provides plenty of power for accelerating out of corners, and the suspension keeps the car stable and composed. The brakes are also up to the task of handling repeated hard stops.

However, the Juke Nismo RS is not a track-focused car, and it does have some limitations. The high center of gravity and relatively soft suspension mean that it's not as nimble as a dedicated sports car. The CVT transmission (in AWD models) can also be a limiting factor, as it doesn't provide the same level of control as a manual transmission.

Overall Impression

Overall, the 2014 Nissan Juke Nismo RS offers a fun and engaging driving experience that's hard to find in other compact crossovers. It's a car that's sure to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. Whether you're commuting to work, carving up backroads, or even hitting the track, the Juke Nismo RS is a versatile and rewarding machine.

Conclusion

The 2014 Nissan Juke Nismo RS is a standout choice for those seeking a sporty and distinctive compact crossover. With its upgraded engine, enhanced handling, and aggressive styling, it offers a unique driving experience that sets it apart from the competition. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate its quirky charm and performance capabilities will find it to be a rewarding and enjoyable vehicle. Whether you prioritize spirited driving, unique design, or a combination of both, the Juke Nismo RS delivers a compelling package that's worth considering.