Nismo Juke Confirmed

Auto Express has confirmed that Nissan is planning a slew of performance models under the Nismo wing, including a number of high-performance RS variants.

Nissan executive VP of product planning Andy Palmer told the UK magazine that the Nismo brand should be considered "an affordable alternative to Mercedes' AMG division," and continued, "Nismo versions will get a power hike of 15 percent, but the focus will be on distinctive styling." The Nismo Juke will be the first of these models to arrive early next year. It will boast a unique body kit, as well as 18-inch wheels and bright red side view mirrors. Underhood, the 1.6-liter mill will be massaged to produce 215 horsepower – an increase of 28 hp.

According to Palmer, "We'll also tune the suspension and steering, so customers can get more out of the power they have."

Next to get the Nismo treatment is the all-electric Nissan Leaf. Originally shown at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show, it will feature blue accents instead of the red found on other Nismo models. Power will jump to 125 from the standard 110 horsepower.

2013 will also see the introduction of a Nismo variant of the GTR, as well as the latest version of the Nismo 370Z