NISSAN can still do performance very well indeed and the new Juke Nismo RS is a prime example of that.

Alongside the GT-R, the 370z, the tuned-up Juke flies the flag for power and performance in a range that includes somewhat more functional motors like the Micra, electric LEAF and the Pulsar hatchback.

The Juke Nismo RS offers something a little different – it’s almost buggy-like.

And that makes it great fun if you’re looking for something a little unusual compared to a traditional sports car or hot hatch.

It sits high, but not too high, and has a reasonable amount of space inside and in the boot.

The performance is excellent, with 218ps from the 1.6 turbo on the 2WD manual version and 214ps on the 4wd auto, which I drove.

Both see slight increases in power from the previous Nismo, which is reflected in the fact that 62mph arrives in just seven seconds on the manual – almost a second quicker than before – and eight on the auto and top speed is 137mph, again higher than the last version, and 124mph respectively.

It won’t be too hard on your pocket, either, with around 40 to the gallon possible when you’re being careful. CO2 is 165g/km on the manual, 169g/km for the auto.

In truth, if you really want to drive this car, then you’d want the manual.

That said, the auto isn’t bad, especially when you throw it into semi-auto mode and use the steering wheel paddles.

So, it’s no slouch and it handles like it’s on tracks.

The Nismo RS manages all of this thanks to sports suspension, a limited slip differential on the manual, upgraded brakes and a tuned exhaust system.

On the outside you get 18in Nismo alloys, red brake callipers, Nismo badges, bumpers, a rear diffuser, side skirts, grille and roof spoiler and red door mirrors and detailing.

The cabin is nice too, with a lovely alcantara steering wheel with red stitching adding to the driving experience, carbon-look finishing and a neat infotainment screen.

There are tidy dual-purpose buttons that switch between driving modes and climate control settings and the Recaro bucket seats set everything off nicely – once you remember to climb over the side of them when getting in.

You can also still spec Nissan’s pioneering safety systems, such as the 360-degree camera, lane departure warning system and blind spot warning.

There are few cars that you can say there’s nothing quite like them on the market, but the Juke Nismo RS is one.

The manual is £21,650 and the auto is £23,755, before add-ons.

Find out more at westovergroup.co.uk/Nissan.