Nissan insiders have confirmed that the company is planning a hardcore 480hp-powered version of its Juke crossover SUV. Dubbed internally as "Super Juke," it could borrow the power unit from its road racer GT-R cousin, albeit in a slightly de-tuned state.

Claims from Nissan sources give the Super Juke a 0-62mph time of under four seconds, thanks to the GT-R's twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 unit, as well as a lightweight interior to enhance the car's power-to-weight ratio considerably.

From this initial sketch (ABOVE), the hardcore Juke features flared wheel arches to house bigger wheels and beefier brakes, split rear spoilers to aid downforce and hood vents, which would help to cool the turbochargers underneath. A front splitter seen here will also help to keep the Juke more stable at high speeds, with large vents in the SUV's side skirts used to aid brake cooling.

Nissan spokesperson Gabi Whitfield has confirmed the existence of the project and commented that further details will be announced next week.

Source: Autocar