(August 11, 2010) The funky styled compact 2011 Nissan Juke will start at under $19,000, Nissan announced today. The MSRP for the base model excluding destintion charge has been set at  $18,960 in the U.S.

That price is for the S trim with CVT automatic. The all-new Juke goes on sale in October at Nissan dealers nationwide. Prices rise through eight models to $24,550 for an alll-wheel drive SL model.

Juke fuses the best qualities of a sports car, including a sporty driving position, dynamic handling and powerful engine, with the best aspects of an SUV — such as a robust lower body, raised ground height, improved visibility and confident stance.

“We believe JUKE’s unique combination of motorsports-inspired exterior and interior design and unexpected levels of technology — along with a starting MSRP under $19,000 — is going to propel JUKE into the heart of the fast-growing compact hatchback/crossover market,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.

The Juke is powered by a standard 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline turbocharged engine rated at 188 horsepower and 177pound-feet of torque. The engine, the first application in North America, combines the power of a larger engine with the fuel economy of a smaller powerplant.

The Juke arrives with standard 17-inch wheels and tires, a fold-down 60/40-split bench seat and flat load floor, six air bags, anti-lock brakes and vehicle stability control. Options will include leather-appointed seats, a rear-view monitor, push button ignition and a Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic Real-Time Traffic Information.