Rally-Spec Nissan Juke? Here It Is In New Tribute To 240Z

So the newest version of Nissan Juke looks pretty well, much better than the original, actually. We’re still waiting for a high-performance second-generation Juke, say a Juke-R. These renders here make some hints at how it would look so let’s hope they will be more than just simple pictures.

The Rally-spec Nissan Juke honors the success that Nissan has registered in rally. Back in 1971, one Nissan 240Z, driven by Edgar Herrmann and with Hans Schuller as a navigator, managed to come 2nd and 7th at the East African Safari Rally. 50 years later, Nissan still commemorates that day and this Juke Rally Tribute Concept will surely help the carmaker feel that pride even more. Rumors say that the concept’s premiere goes hand in hand with the first day of Safari Rally Kenia, which has been relaunched and reincluded in the World Rally Championship after 19 years of absence.

And what better platform to choose than Juke, something that becomes obvious from the very first glance at the concept car. The body has been reshaped, gaining bigger wheel arches that host the custom-made off-road tires. You’ll notice some extra lights on the roof and hood, while the red and black livery pays a direct homage to the Z cart that almost became a winner 50 years ago. 

Seeing this concept hit production is very unlikely, but this may set the path for a future sport concept, with a hybrid powertrain. According to Coralie Musy, Brand, Customer Experience, and Vice president at Nissan Automotive Europe, this concept is more than just an homage to the success from 50 years ago. It also proofs the carmaker’s pioneering experience in design, electrified powertrains, and crossovers – in general.