A revised version of the small capacity 1, 5-litre dCi diesel engine that does the job throughout several models in the Nissan range will soon be available in the Juke model range.
The Juke has been a sales success for Nissan, in South Africa it sells well with some 336 units sold in May alone as the demand for SUVs is ever increasing.
The small turbodiesel has seen a few changes that has boosted maximum torque from 240Nm to 260Nm at 1,750r/min, with 80 per cent of this figure available from 1,500rpm. The Juke diesel will also be exempt from emission tax with CO2 emissions pegged at 109g/km.
The improvements have been achieved by the implementation of a few technical changes. These include revised fuel injection nozzles, which now have a more precise spray pattern for better combustion and a new, low-inertia variable geometry turbocharger fed by a more direct air intake path.
In addition, a closed-loop low-pressure exhaust gas recycling (EGR) system, in which the exhaust gas is cooled before being reintroduced to the intake system, has reportedly helped ensure the unit is compatible with forthcoming Euro6 emission regulations.
The new diesel features low friction enhancements, and now also features Nissan’s automatic Start/Stop system. With smart management technology the engine is claimed to restart within 0.5sec of the clutch being engaged. Reduced combustion noise adds to the list of reported improvements.
The oil burning Juke retains Nissan’s Dynamic Control system, which enables the driver to select from three engine settings –Eco, Normal and Sport. This system now also limits maximum engine torque in Eco mode to 220 Nm. In Normal and Sport, the full 260Nm is available. The unit’s overall power output is rated at 80 kW while performance figures show a claimed top speed of 175 km/h and 0-100km/h dash of 11, 2 seconds.
The new diesel Juke should be available in South Africa around August this year, according to Nissan SA.