Nissan Confirms 545-hp “Production” Juke Crossover

Nissan Motor Co. says it will build a handful of "production" versions of its Juke-R concept, a hot-rod version of its Juke crossover that can scoot from zero to 60 mph in less than 3.7 seconds.

The special all-wheel-drive model will be fitted with the latest iteration of the 3.8-liter, twin-turbocharged V-6 engine normally found in the Nissan GT-R supercar. The powerplant is rated at 545 hp. That's 67 hp more than the one in the concept model, which has a top speed of 160 mph and can out-accelerate such supercars as a Lamborghini Gallardo and Ferrari 458 Italia.

The oddly styled standard $20,000 Juke, which is powered by a 188-hp turbocharged four and continuously variable transmission, reaches 60 mph in 7.3 seconds.

The concept was developed late last year by RML Group, a British motorsports engineering firm, and unveiled at the Dubai auto show in January. The Juke-R is fitted with 20-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, a roll cage, twin roof-mounted spoilers, a wider track and considerable body panel modifications.

Nissan says it has received three orders for the production version, which will sell for an estimated $200,000 or more. The company says it will accept further orders only through May. Would-be buyers can get the particulars by e-mailing Nissan's U.K. operations at Juke-R@Nissan.co.uk.