While 26 MPG combined isn’t going to win the 2016 Nissan Juke Nismo RS AWD any fuel efficiency awards, that’s almost besides the point. People buy this hot hatch for its aggressive styling, boosted engine, and surprisingly capable all-wheel-drive system. Owners accept the middling fuel economy as the cost for a unique driving experience.

City and highway performance

The Juke Nismo RS AWD gets an EPA-estimated 25 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The highway number is decent, but the city figure shows the engine uses more gas in stop-and-go traffic. The continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Nissan calls an “AV-S8,” simulates gear shifts to reduce the CVT drone, but it also results in lower fuel efficiency compared to a traditional automatic transmission. A manual transmission, which is available on front-wheel-drive versions, would probably improve the MPG numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Nissan Juke Nismo RS AWD at $2,250. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. However, premium fuel is recommended (though not strictly required), which will increase the cost per mile. This cost should be considered when calculating the overall ownership cost, especially for drivers who want performance and regularly drive the engine hard.

Real-world expectations

Drivers who often drive the Juke Nismo RS hard will likely see fuel economy numbers below the EPA estimates. Sport mode encourages more aggressive driving by holding gears longer and increasing throttle response, which uses more fuel. On the other hand, drivers who mainly commute on the highway at consistent speeds and use eco mode might get MPG figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s 29 MPG highway rating. For more real-world data on every year, you can track the JUKE MPG.

How it compares

The Juke Nismo RS AWD’s fuel economy is a mixed bag compared to other performance-oriented compact crossovers. The MINI Cooper Countryman S ALL4 offers similar performance with slightly better MPG, typically around 26 MPG combined. The Subaru Crosstrek, a more rugged option, offers better fuel economy, especially the hybrid, which can easily get over 30 MPG combined. However, these alternatives don’t have the Juke’s unique styling and raw driving feel. For a broader view, review all Nissan fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid accelerating hard. The Juke Nismo RS AWD’s turbocharger provides lots of power, but each quick acceleration uses more gas. Accelerating gradually and maintaining a steady speed will improve fuel economy.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Check that tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Properly inflated tires also improve handling and extend tire life.

Reduce weight. Too much cargo increases the vehicle’s weight, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Remove anything you don’t need from the trunk and cabin to reduce weight.

Plan your routes. Avoid traffic and choose routes with fewer stops, which can lead to better fuel economy, especially in city driving. Use navigation apps to find the most efficient route, even if it’s a little longer.

Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a consistent speed on the highway is important for maximizing fuel efficiency. Cruise control helps to maintain your speed, reducing gas consumption. Turn off cruise control when driving on hills or in bad weather.