Nissan Juke-R heads for the test track 21 | 11 | 2011

NISSAN IS FINALLY set to test it's impressively powerful Nissan Juke-R, which pumps out a stinking 480bhp from its 3.8-litre engine.

Dubbed the world’s fastest crossover, Juke-R is a unique concept car that combines the power, speed and handling of Nissan’s flagship GT-R sports car with the design of the Juke crossover model.

Finished in pretty foreboding matt black, the car’s styling places Juke’s curves and lines over the GT-R’s 3.8-litre engine, drivetrain and suspension, making Juke-R the most testosterone-packed compact crossover in the world.

It also looks mightily menacing. Large, provocative vents in the front bumper provide cooling for the Juke-R’s twin turbo V6 engine, while subtle submerged ducts in the bonnet help draw air through the engine bay.

Flared wheel arches cover the GT-R’s 20-inch RAYS forged alloy wheels to merge with a new sculpted skirting. At the back of the car, a dynamic split rear wing provides the supercar crossover with down-force, while twin pentagonal exhausts emit the GT-R’s evocative engine note.

See more official images of the Nissan Juke-R

Inside, the Juke’s motorcycle-inspired console is at the centre of a modified interior cabin fitted out to go racing complete with twin race seats, full race harness and a race-spec roll cage.

GT-R steering wheel, pedals, dials and 7in touch-screen display are built into a modified version of Juke’s dashboard.

But if you're hoping to buy a Juke-R, don't get too excited. Nissan is eager to stress the concept is exactly that: a concept which will never go into full production.

Instead it's a special, road legal concept car. Two versions of the Juke-R are being created – one in left-hand-drive and one in right-hand-drive. As for owning one, I'm afraid you can only dream.

Nissan's quirky Pivo 3 can drive itself

Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/scotcars

Jim McGill