Nissan has added auto-transmission and all-wheel drive variants to its existing four-model fun-'n-funky Juke crossover range - but, seeing as there is nothing conventional about the Juke, it has done it differently.
To start with, the self-shifter doesn't have any gears at all - it's a belt-drive constantly variable transmission, while the All-Mode all-wheel drive isn't set up for bundu-bashing but for increased grip and better steering at highway speeds on, well, highways.
SEAMLESS ACCELERATION
Unlike a conventional transmission, which has a choice of different ratios, any one of which can be engaged to suit the speed of the wheels relative to the engine revs (hence the term 'gear change' - that is exactly what you're doing) a CVT transmission has a steel drive belt running between two cone-shaped pulleys facing in opposite directions.
If you move the belt across the faces of the pulley, one will increase in size as the other decreases, seamlessly changing the ratio between input and output shafts while keeping the belt at a constant tension so it doesn't slip - or snap.
With a bit of input from the ECU and yaw sensors, the transmission can find the ideal combination of torque and revs for any circumstances and move to it without disengaging anything, so you get smooth power delivery with no ‘shift shock’ and, if you can keep slippage to a minimum, the potential for impressive fuel-efficiency.
In the Juke, the system measures gradients and cornering loads as well, and even uses patterns of movement to figure out whether the car is in city traffic (keep it smooth, sister) or on a fun-to-drive winding mountain pass, where you want maximum torque every time you power out of a corner.
ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
Available only on the 1.6 DIG-T turbo model, the All-Mode 4x4i system distributes torque between the front and rear axles, up to a maximum split of 50:50, according to the driving conditions and vehicle behaviour - including steering input, yaw rate, lateral acceleration and wheel speed - and also manages power between the two rear wheels via and electronic limited-slip differential so as to reduce understeer while cornering.
And to underline the on-road orientation of the set-up, its antics are displayed in real time with graphics on the instrument panel, just as the turbo boost gauge lets the driver know exactly what the engine is doing.
The new 1.6 Acenta+ CVT auto adds seamless shifting to the existing entry level model, for more relaxed driving, while the 140kW/240NM 1.6 Tekna AWD CVT auto model pairs the new transmission with all-wheel drive for extra grip and better road holding.
PRICES
1.6 Acenta+ CVT - R249 900
1.6 DIG-T Tekna AWD CVT - R314 900
(includes leather upholstery)