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Nissan GT-R

The Nissan GT-R is a sports car, built by Japanese marque Nissan from 2007 to 2025. It has a 2+2 seating layout and is also considered a grand tourer. The engine is front-mid mounted and drives all four wheels. It succeeded the Nissan Skyline GT-R, a high-performance variant of the Nissan Skyline. Although this model was the sixth-generation to bear the GT-R name, it was no longer part of the Skyline line-up. The car was built on the PM platform, derived from the FM platform used in the Skyline and Nissan Z models. Production was conducted in a shared production line at Nissan's Tochigi plant in Japan.

History and development
History Between 1969 and 1973, and again between 1989 and 2002, Nissan produced a high performance version of its Nissan Skyline coupe, the Skyline GT-R. This car proved to be iconic for Nissan, achieving much fame and success on the road and in motorsports. The GT-R was an entirely new model, departing from its predecessor. Though they shared a little with each other, such as the signature four round tail lights, the ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel-drive system, and a twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, the GT-R diverged significantly. Notably, it omitted the HICAS four-wheel-steering system, with engineers recognizing its incompatibility with the advanced all-wheel-drive setup, which would compromise the car's performance. The previous RB26DETT engine was succeeded by the VR38DETT engine. Another continuity from its predecessor was the chassis code; the all-new version was identified as CBA-R35 initially and later as DBA-R35 and 4BA-R35 for subsequent model years, or simply R35 for short (where CBA, DBA, and 4BA denote the emissions standard prefix). The car also preserved the nickname of its predecessor, Godzilla, a moniker originally given by the Australian motoring publication Wheels in 1989 for its R32 generation model. Development In 2000, as per the request of CEO Carlos Ghosn, Nissan commenced the revival of their iconic sports car model, as part of the Nissan Revival Plan. Ghosn believed that introducing a halo car would increase public interest and enthusiasm towards the then-struggling Nissan brand, ultimately bolstering sales. Therefore, he insisted the GT-R should be made as a high-performance car, capable of rivaling esteemed sports cars from manufacturers in the likes of Porsche, Lamborghini, and Ferrari, all while maintaining a comparatively affordable price point. He also sought to preserve a distinctive feature from its predecessors; four round taillights, which he considered the signature design element of all GT-R models. Development began in 2000, with Nissan designers from Japan, US and Europe generating a multitude of sketches. Out of these, 50 designs reached Nissan's design director at the time, Shiro Nakamura. Nakamura emphasized that the design must not only embody a modern sports car aesthetic but also encapsulate Japanese cultural elements and pay homage to its predecessor's heritage. In 2001, Ghosn officially announced ongoing development of the GT-R, with a concept reveal at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show. The chief designer, Hiroshi Hasegawa, dedicated over four years to complete interior and exterior designs, as designs should exude sportiness, modernity, and aerodynamic efficiency to meet the ambitious performance targets set for the car. Chief engineer of the Skyline GT-R R34, Kazutoshi Mizuno (also known as Mr. GT-R), spearheaded the mechanical aspects of development. Mizuno initially rejected the project, due to the directive to build the car on the outdated FM platform. Mizuno expressed his reservations, stating, "I could not make a world-class performance car from this platform as Ghosn requested." In April 2003, he constructed a Infiniti G35 based GT-R prototype on an advanced iteration of the FM platform known as the Premium Midship (PM) platform. Mizuno was then granted the full development authority and was designated as the chief engineer of the GT-R. At the 2003 Tokyo Motor Show, Ghosn confirmed that the production version would debut in the fall of 2007. Subsequently, the prototype underwent refinement at Lotus Engineering, focusing on enhancing chassis rigidity and revising suspension geometry to align with the car's performance goals. In January 2004, Mizuno officially commenced development with a specialized team and a full-scale GT-R model. Differing from the typical development team, this specialized group was made by recruiting the best engineers and technicians from each department. The Mizuno-led team developed and tested the drivetrain and chassis, including the suspension setup and brakes, using the Infiniti G35 test mule at the Nürburgring and Sendai Hi-Land Raceway. Mizuno claimed his ambitious goals were to build the GT-R so as to be able to have comfortable conversations with a passenger at speeds of . Furthermore, he aimed for a power-to-weight ratio of under per horsepower and a lap time at the Nürburgring in under 8 minutes. Notable mechanical designs and concepts, including the Brembo brakes system and the Bilstein suspension setup, were conceived and developed by Mizuno himself. Initial plans for the GT-R involved a straight-6 engine, consistent with its predecessors. However, the decision was made to opt for a shorter V6 engine for ideal weight distribution. Nissan's chief powertrain engineer, Naoki Nakada, spearheaded the development of the brand-new VR38DETT 3.8L twin-turbocharged V6 engine, which was an evolution of the VQ engine. To achieve the initial goal of creating a high-performance user-friendly car, a unique combination of production car and race car-like aerodynamics had to be developed. This challenge arose from the dual requirements of generating a respectable amount of downforce for enhanced high-speed stability while maintaining minimal drag for improved fuel efficiency. Initially, engineers expressed the complexity of achieving such an aerodynamic level, given a road car's high ground clearance, safety regulations, visibility standards, material costs and various other factors. Aerodynamics development began in early 2004, spearheaded by a team of the company's best engineers, including Yoshitaka Suzuka, the developer of Nissan's successful Le Mans prototypes. The process began with an internal design competition among Nissan's design studios located in Atsugi, Tokyo, London, and La Jolla. Over 80 sketches were submitted, aligning with the original styling concepts. Subsequently, 12 distinct sketches were created by design elements from the initial submissions. Further refinement whittled them down to 3 scale wind tunnel models created by the development team. The team set a numerical target for the car to achieve a or lower, combined with front and rear downforce, which was not done by any other manufacturer. Suzuka initially proposed utilizing active aerodynamics, but the idea faced rejection due to the concerns of inflating the car's price beyond Nissan's planned offering. In August, Suzuka initiated wind tunnel testing at the Nissan Technical Center in Atsugi, spanning three months and involving over 300 test runs using the scale models. The program then transitioned to two 40 percent scale models—one representing the GT-R and the other replicating the Infiniti G35 test mule. Drawing data from its full sized version's testing at the Nürburgring, this scale model served as a comparable datum against the GT-R model. Initial wind tunnel tests with the GT-R model yielded a drag coefficient of . As the project progressed, exterior designers Hirohisa Ono and Masato Taguchi joined to refine certain aspects of the car, such as adjusting the front nose height. However, the efforts fell short of achieving the anticipated overall improvement in aerodynamics. Over one and a half years of development, involving more than 2000 wind tunnel test runs, the engineers ultimately achieved a visually appealing exterior design with a drag coefficient of combined with front and rear downforce. Concepts Nissan unveiled the GT-R concept without prior notice at the 35th Tokyo Motor Show in 2001. Previewed as the 21st-century GT-R, Nissan confirmed the production version will be sold worldwide unlike its predecessors, which were sold only in a limited number of markets. The concept car featured an aggressive, muscular, wide and low exterior look. The interior featured a deep seating position, full-length centre console, integrated structural cage and a driver's command centre. Nissan unveiled a redesigned version of the concept car, the GT-R Proto, at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show. It featured redesigned exterior elements over the concept car to improve overall airflow and reveal the identity of the car. These elements included a redesigned front air intake, front fenders with air vents behind them and the sides of the body were sculptured towards the rear fenders, no technical information were given for both concept and prototype cars. Officials claimed the production version would be 80 to 90 percent based on this prototype. Testing As overall development of the car was finalized around 2006, Nissan began testing in several countries on different road and weather conditions to fine tune the all-new performance car. In late 2004, the Infiniti G35 test mule was spied at the Nürburgring, it featured highly modified body panels, drivetrain, suspension and braking setups. In late 2006 and early 2007, GT-R test mules were spied for the first time, alongside a Porsche 911 Turbo on public roads in New Mexico and California, at race circuits such as in the Nürburgring and Laguna Seca. During a test session at the Sendai Hi-Land Raceway, Ghosn joined the test team to directly test drive the car against a Porsche 911 Turbo, which served as the benchmark during the development of the GT-R. At the end of the session, he complimented the team for their effort to build the car in the way he imagined. During a test session at the Nürburgring, Nissan invited automotive journalists of magazines in the likes of Car and Driver and Evo to test drive both the GT-R and 911 Turbo around the track, Autobahn and on country roads. Journalists praised the GT-R for its exceptional grip, handling and acceleration. End of overall testing in September 2007, Mizuno and team recorded a lap time of 7:38.54 minutes around the Nürburgring Nordschleife in damp conditions, claimed the car would have set a much quicker lap time on ideal track conditions. Following the introduction of the production version, the team continued development and testing to provide upgrades for later model years. == Production ==
Production
Production model The production version of the GT-R was unveiled at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, following an on-screen 7:38.54 minute lap time in the partially wet Nürburgring Nordschleife was broadcast, Nissan claimed it was the fastest lap time for a mass-produced car, beating the benchmark Porsche 911 Turbo's time of 7:40 minutes. The GT-R was previewed as "A supercar, for Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime". The first production GT-R was purchased by Nissan's CEO at the time, Carlos Ghosn. ; 2009 update In 2009, the GT-R received its first—of many—updates for the 2010 model year. It featured increased engine power output of at 6,400 rpm, with no improvement in engine torque. The launch control system was reprogrammed to reduce stress in the transaxle and improve acceleration. It was also offered for sold 2009 models. Other upgrades include re-tuned suspension, updated wheel finish, standard front seat and side curtain airbags. 2010 facelift In 2010, for the 2011 model year, the GT-R received its first facelift. The car was revised and re-codenamed as "DBA–R35", replacing the original "CBA–R35". The revised version featured the same engine with altered mapping, changed valve timing, larger inlets and a modified exhaust system which boosts rated power to at 6,400 rpm and of torque from 3,200 to 6,000 rpm. The chassis was stiffened by a more rigid front strut bar made out of carbon composite. Larger front brake rotors, lighter and stiffer wheels, and revised Dunlop tyres reduced unsprung weight by . The suspensions contained stiffer springs, dampers and anti-roll bars and revised geometry to improve grip, new dampers provided more constant damping force. Cosmetic changes reduced its drag coefficient to and increased overall downforce by 10 percent. Achieved by a revised front bumper with integrated LEDs, improving radiator cooling and front brakes cooling while reducing drag. The revised rear diffuser improved downforce and additional rear cooling ducts were placed for further brake cooling. The interior improved quality and comfort. Offered with a new HDD CarWings navigation system, with enhanced entertainment features and a USB port with iPod connectivity. Engine noise and road noise were reduced, and the overall performance of the car was improved. Overall weight of the car was decreased by . The car went on sale in mid-November 2010 in Japan and February 2011 in Europe, North America, and in other regions. ; 2012 update Similar to the update in 2009, the car was offered a revision in 2012, for the 2013 model year. It featured increased power output of at 6,400 rpm and of torque from 3,200 to 5,200 rpm. This was achieved by revised intake manifolds reducing air resistance, enlarged duct for the intercooler, new exhaust lowering back-pressure, and sodium-filled exhaust valves reducing the temperature of the combustion chambers. The ECU was remapped to alter valve timing, and improved air-fuel mixture ratio and ignition. A new flywheel housing, retuned suspension setup and revised weight distribution further increased performance and handling. ; 2014 update The car was given significant improvements over the previous model year in 2014, for the 2015 model year. Along with the GT-R Nismo, it was previewed at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show. Engine power remained same as the previous version, but an upgraded suspension setup with revised settings led to reduce load fluctuation between the four wheels, increased stability and provided more consistent grip. Tyre contact was improved with optimized electronic controls of the shock-absorber valves. Re-tuned front stabilizer spring rates and bush links, re-tuned brake system for more stopping power, and a fine-tuned steering improved handling. Cosmetic changes included new 20-inch alloy wheels, enhanced LED headlights and taillights with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS). These upgrades improved straight-line and cornering stability, better ride quality without sacrificing its acceleration and cornering performance. Overall weight of the car was increased by across all models. 2016 facelift The car received its second facelift in 2016, for the 2017 model year, re-codenamed as "4BA–R35", featured the biggest changes in its 18-year production span. Redesigned front and rear facias improved engine and brake cooling, reshaped C-pillars reducing turbulence and strengthened hood reduced deformation at high speeds. Enhancements to engine cooling led to maintain turbo boost pressure dialed up, increasing engine power output to at 6,800 rpm and of torque at 3,300–5,300 rpm, maximum speed of the engine (redline) was increased from 7,000 to 7,100 rpm. Transmission was remapped to shift gears smoothly and quieter than before, and new titanium exhaust reduced weight. Revised chassis structure improved torsional rigidity by 5 percent. Noise insulation was provided by acoustic windscreen, sound deadening materials and Bose noise cancellation system. Furthermore, upgraded brakes, re-tuned dampers, lighter forged alloy wheels and stiffer chassis improved ride quality and cornering by less aggressive turn in. The interior featured a new leather material, steering wheel, 8-inch display infotainment system and a redesigned carbon-fibre centre console. Nissan claimed the upgraded GT-R increased acceleration at mid to high rpm ranges (3,200 rpm and above) and featured optimal balance between handling and ride comfort. The upgrades were also applied to Track Edition and Nismo variants, overall weight of the car was increased by across all models. ; 2019 update In 2019, for the 2020 model year, the car was offered with minor upgrades. Engine response and efficiency were improved by 5 percent due to the incorporation of revised turbocharges. The re-tuned transmission reduced its shifting time to 0.15 seconds, with gear selections happening during ABS engagement, it reduced understeer and improved cornering. 2021–2022 hiatus It was revealed the GT-R would not offer a 2022 model year in North America (mid-2021 to mid-2022 in calendar years), following the introduction of the T-spec variant. However, in Japan and other markets the car sold a 2022 model. Nissan Australia discontinued the GT-R in Australia and New Zealand from October 31, 2021, as it was no longer eligible for new side impact regulations. The car was sold 1,021 units in Australia and 89 units in New Zealand, a total of 1,110 units were sold in the Australian market during 12-years of sales since its debut in April 2009. Deliveries in Europe and United Kingdom were concluded in March 2022, for being unable to meet new noise regulations which took effect in June 2022. During its 13-years of sales since March 2009, Nissan sold more than 11,000 units in Europe. In May 2022, Nissan officially closed orders in Japan, as it reached the planned sales amount. It was revealed the car was no longer in sale in North America and Africa, as Nissan USA, Nissan Canada, and Nissan South Africa official websites claimed the car was sold out. ; Reintroduction In October 2022, Nissan resumed production for the 2023 model year. Skipping the previous model year, the car was only offered in North America. No changes were reported compared to the previous model. 2023 facelift The car received its third and final facelift in 2023, for the 2024 model year, introduced at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Salon. Nissan claimed the facelifted version would be limited to an unspecified number, and it was mainly offered only for the Japanese and North American markets, with three trim levels, Premium, Nismo and T-spec. The Track Edition variant was offered, exclusively in Japan. Unlike its previous facelifts, this model featured minor cosmetic changes. Redesigned front and rear bumpers, front grille and rear wing, improved aerodynamics around the nose and rear diffuser, which increased downforce without increasing drag. No mechanical changes were made over the previous model year. In the North American market, the facelifted Premium and Nismo variants went on sale in the second and third quarter of 2023 respectively. Sales in Japan began in March 2023. Discontinuation Nissan announced the end of sales for the North American market in October 2024 with two exclusive variants, the T-Spec Takumi and Skyline limited editions. Production continued mainly for the Japanese market until August 26, 2025, when the final unit—a Premium T-Spec edition finished in Midnight Purple—rolled off the production line in Tochigi. Nissan officially announced the car's end of production, claimed the rising costs and stricter regulations invoked their decision, while also addressing the potential development of a next-generation GT-R. Production figures During its 18 year production span, Nissan had produced around 48,000 units and sold in various different markets worldwide. == Overview ==
Overview
Technical specifications Engine The GT-R was powered by the VR38DETT engine, a 60° DOHC V6 engine – which was shorter than traditional V6 production engines, benefiting weight distribution. The engine was based on the VQ engine, but thoroughly modified to improve performance and suit the car. Two parallel Ishikawajima-Harima (IHI) RHF55 turbochargers provided forced induction, boosting more than 0.7bar of boost and its turbine housing was integrated into the exhaust manifolds to minimize lag, decrease weight and improve vehicle balance. The engine was originally rated at at 6,400rpm and of torque at 3,2005,200rpm, which made it the most powerful engine fitted to a Japanese production vehicle at the time. The engine was compliant with California Air Resources Board Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) standards. Notable features of the VR38DETT include: • Continuously variable valve timing control system (CVTCS) on intake valve. • Aluminium cylinder block with high-endurance/low-friction plasma-sprayed bores. • Iridium-tipped spark plugs. • Electronic drive-by-wire throttle. • Multi port fuel injection. • Pressurized lubrication system with thermostatically controlled cooling and magnesium oil sump. • Fully symmetrical dual intake and low back-pressure exhaust system. • Secondary air intake system to rapidly heat catalysts to peak cleaning efficiency. • 50 State LEV2/ULEV. The engines were hand built in a dust proof, temperature controlled room at Nissan's Yokohama plant, by only nine "Takumi Craftsmen" mechanics throughout the car's 18 year production span. Names of these mechanics were badged on every engine built. Each engine took approximately 6 hours and 300 components to be fully assembled. Drivetrain The GT-R was the first ever rear mounted independent transaxle all-wheel-drive vehicle. The transaxle consist of the transmission, clutches, centre and rear differential. Placed on the rear axle, it helped balance the weight of the engine up front and improved the front-to-rear weight distribution to 54:46. The car featured an exclusively developed, six-speed BorgWarner co-designed GR6Z30A type dual-clutch transmission. It was hand built by Takumi Craftsmen in a specialized room, similar to the engine assembly room, at Nissan's Aichi Kikai plant in Nagoya. With a shift time of 0.15–0.2 seconds, it was one of the fastest gear shifting transmissions fitted to a production vehicle. Nissan claimed their choice of a DCT over the traditional manual transmission was because of its significant performance advantage, high demand, better fuel efficiency, favouring the advanced technologies featured in the car, and being the precise choice for meeting regulation and emission standards. It was used in conjunction with the unique ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel-drive system, providing power to all four wheels with minimal loss and controlled by the built-in Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) to aid in handling and stability. Three shift modes were available in the drive mode selector: "R-mode" provided maximum performance of the six-speed dual-clutch transmission, "Normal-mode" was recommended for daily driving, and "Save-mode" was recommended for maximizing fuel economy, and driving on slippery surfaces, such as on snow or ice. Gear shifting was controlled automatically or rather manually through paddle shifters. distributed 54 percent to the front and 46 percent to the rear, providing greater stability. It was the first and so far the only model built on the Premium Midship (PM) platform, an evolution of the Front Midship (FM) architecture introduced in the Skyline (V35)/Infiniti G35. Its chassis utilized a hybrid unibody construction using a combination of steel, carbon fibre, and die-cast aluminium. It primarily used a conventional steel monocoque but with Alcoa aluminium subframes and suspensions. The door frames were die-cast aluminium, and the bumpers were made of lightweight polypropylene. The front cross-member, radiator support and rear diffuser were made of carbon-fibre to strengthen the structure and reduce weight. The majority of body panels were made of aluminium sheets, such as the bonnet, boot lid and door shells. Outer body panels were stamped using a multiple-strike coining process in order to add rigidity and precision. The car was fitted with an active suspension system, called "DampTronic", which contained Bilstein designed electronic adaptive dampers and manufactured by Yorozu Corporation. Onboard computers adjust the suspension components every one hundredth of a second, evenly distributing the mass for all four wheels and maximizing tyre contact for better grip, under heavy acceleration, braking and cornering. The GT-R was the first production vehicle to feature such a suspension system. The DampTronic system allowed the driver to select three different suspension modes from the mode selector: "R-mode" for maximum performance required on track and dragstrip, "Normal-mode" for daily driver use, and "Comfort-mode", which softened the dampers to improve ride quality. The car featured 20-inch 15-spoke forged lightweight aluminium alloy wheels manufactured by Rays, wrapped up with exclusively developed Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT 600 DSST CTT run-flat tyres, Bridgestone Potenza RE070R run-flat tyres were offered in earlier models. Each wheel featured a knurling around the inside of the rim in order to keep the tyres from slipping on the rim due to heavy acceleration and braking. The brake setup featured Brembo monoblock six-piston ventilated brake callipers with at the front, and four-piston callipers with full floating, cross drilled two piece rotors in the rear. They accompanied with low steel and high stiffness brake pads. Carbon ceramic rotors were offered in some of the special variants, which were the largest brake rotors ever fitted to a Japanese production vehicle. Exterior According to chief design director, Shiro Nakamura, "aero blade" front fenders, blackened A-pillars and the slopping roofline of the GT-R were inspired by the giant robots of the Gundam series. Nakamura stated: "The GT-R is unique because it is not simply a copy of a European-designed sports car; it had to really reflect Japanese culture". Nissan's American designers sculpted the rear three-quarters of the vehicle, while their European designers sculpted the roofline. The car was fitted with LED headlights, automatic on/off headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights and brake lights, dual-heated body-colour power wing mirrors, power-folding side mirrors, flush-mounted aluminium door handles, four 5-inch titanium exhaust outlets with polished tips and UV-reducing solar glass. The GT-R generated more than of downforce at on both ends, while maintaining a . Becoming the first production car to feature such an aerodynamic efficiency. Interior The GT-R featured a hand stitched premium leather interior, embedded on the dashboard, steering wheel, door panels, centre console and seats. Motor Trend claimed the car featured one of the most finely crafted interiors despite its marginally lower price. Carbon-fibre was used in the centre console and in the gauge cluster, which featured an analog speedometer, fuel meter and tachometer with a redline of 7,000–7,100 rpm. Digital displays featured traveling speed, gear, fuel economy and distance calculations. GT-R badged steering wheel contains volume controls and cruise control buttons. Magnesium paddle shifters were on the wheel column in earlier models and on the steering wheel in post 2017 facelifted models. The instrument cluster was angled towards the driver, featuring air conditioning controls, audio set-up controls and drive mode selectors. Centre console featured the engine start/off button, leather–wrapped shift lever, parking brake and an armrest with a small storage area inside and a USB port. The car was fitted with an 11-speaker Bose sound system. Polyphony Digital, creators of the Gran Turismo motor racing video games, were contracted to design the multifunction display. It featured a detailed log of the driving behavior, speed, g-force, fuel economy and more. Details of mechanical information such as the turbo boost, water and engine oil pressure, transmission oil, front and rear drive distribution, steering angles, braking and acceleration pressure, and optimal gearshift mapping for better fuel economy, satellite navigation and audio controls as well. == Variants ==
Variants
Alongside the standard model, four distinct trim levels were introduced over time, each bringing notable performance improvements and cosmetic updates. The lineup began with the Black Edition in 2012, followed by the track-focused Track Edition in 2013, Nismo in 2014, and T-spec trim in 2021. Trim Levels ; N-Attack Package The GT-R Nismo was offered with the N-Attack Package, a special post-production performance package, which included the performance upgrades used to set the lap record at the Nürburgring. It featured a re-programmed ECU for enhanced power distribution. Changes were made to stiffer suspension springs and shock absorbers, anti-roll bars, front brake pads, front and rear limited-slip differentials for improved handling. It provided more downforce using carbon-fibre front fenders with aerodynamic flics, larger front splitter and rear wing with two height and 12 angle adjustment options. Carbon-fibre intercooler pipes, Recaro full-carbon bucket seats and a carbon-fibre bulkhead replacing the back seats reduced weight by over the standard GT-R Nismo. It also contained track-only components, the bonnet gurney strip and six-point harness seat belt which were offered as optional parts. The package was offered for the 2016 facelifted models as well. The package was offered in two trim levels, A kit and B kit. The A kit included all the upgrades, but the B kit only featured the suspension setup, brake system, stabilizer bars, carbon-fibre rear wing, front fenders and splitter, both ESM and TCM, and a driver only bucket seat. In Japan, installation was handled by the Nismo Omori factory. In North America and the United Kingdom, the conversion was handled by Stillen and JR Motorsports respectively. Special Editions Several special editions were introduced during the GT-R's prolonged production span, highlighted unique designs, limited production runs, and commemorated milestones of its history. Each edition featured distinctive characteristics, ranging from performance upgrades to exclusive cosmetic enhancements. One-offs Various one-off editions were built throughout the years. In 2012, "Usain Bolt" one-off GT-R, named after the athlete Usain Bolt, was built and auctioned off to raise funds for charity. A display model was held in Tokyo, Japan. Other one-offs include, the Guinness World Record drift car, the GT-R Predzilla that was exclusively built and donated to the Nashville Predators Foundation, custom-painted in Preds' official colours and graphics. The Tomica 50th Anniversary GT-R, built to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Tomica. Based on the 2017 model year GT-R, it was wrapped up with the iconic red and black "Tomica Skyline Turbo Super Silhouette" livery, symbolising the relationship between Tomica and Nissan. A special version of the GT-R Nismo, wrapped in a gold body colour, built in collaboration with McDonald's in Japan. A toy model was also offered with the “Tomica Happy Set" meal. GT-R/C The GT-R/C was built to celebrate the release of the Gran Turismo Sport video game, and mark 20 years of Nissan's involvement in the Gran Turismo gaming series. It was extensively modified to be driven entirely by a DualShock 4 controller. It was controlled by the Nismo athlete and GT Academy winner, Jann Mardenborough around in a cockpit of a helicopter at the Silverstone Circuit. Mardenborough's fastest lap time was 1:17.47 minutes, averaging 122 km/h and reached a top speed of 211 km/h. The GT-R/C was fitted with four robots to operate the steering, transmission, brakes, and throttle. Six computers mounted in the rear of the car to update the controls up to 100 times per second. The unmodified Dual-Shock 4 connects to a micro-computer that interprets the joystick and button signals and transmits them to its onboard systems. The wireless operation had a primary control range of one kilometre. A Racelogic Vbox Motorsport sensor was installed to relay speed data to an LCD display in the helicopter cockpit. The car was fitted with two independent safety systems operating on different radio frequencies in order to allow two additional operators to apply full ABS braking and cut the engine in the event of the main operator losing control of the vehicle. In 2018, the GT-R/C was used in a tour of primary and secondary schools in the United Kingdom to promote future careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) subjects. Police use The GT-R was used as police patrol vehicles by several police departments worldwide. Including the Tochigi Prefectural Police in Japan, Abu Dhabi Police and Dubai Police Force in the United Arab Emirates. == Performance ==
Performance
The GT-R was considered heavy and bulky compared to its competitors, its innovative all-wheel-drive and active suspension systems utilised its weight as an advantage. The unconventional body design maximized downforce and minimized drag, resulting in exceptional acceleration, cornering and handling capabilities. Many automotive publications have used the term, "the GT-R defies the laws of physics" to describe its performance. Originally, Nissan claimed the GT-R can attain a top speed of , but Motor Trend recorded a top speed of with the original 2009 model year GT-R. Edmunds held the first ever performance test using a customer-spec GT-R in Japan, achieving a 0- time of 3.3 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 11.6 seconds. It was the quickest production car they had ever tested. The car was capable of achieving superior performance figures in tests conducted by other automotive magazines. Owners expressed concerns that duplicating the times achieved in these tests would void their factory warranty. Chief Engineer, Kazutoshi Mizuno indicated that he has never used the term "launch control", which refers to the act of turning off Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and launching the car at around 4,500 rpm. However, then-Nissan director of product planning officer, John Wiener stated in an interview with Jay Leno that "we [Nissan] actually offer a 'launch mode'". The GT-R user's manual states that turning off the VDC is only meant for escaping low-traction situations such as mud or snow. However the manufacturer themselves used to turn off the VDC during official hot laps and time attacks. In 2010, Nissan re-programmed the GT-R to reduce engine speed at launch to around 3,500–4,000 rpm with VDC enabled, which was meant to improve acceleration times. The revised programming was also installed in unsold 2009 model year models that were still in their inventory, was also available for existing 2009 vehicles. The re-programmed GT-R had a launch mode called "R-Mode Start". Enabled by pushing the three buttons up, transmission, suspension and VDC. The system allowed a maximum of 4 consecutive hard launches before locking itself out, after which can be unlocked by driving normally for . Combined with the "R-Mode Start", the GT-R retained its original performance, which set the Guinness World Record for the fastest accelerating four-seater production vehicle. Nissan offered numerous upgrades for later model years, which saw significant improvements in acceleration figures, top speed, and Nürburgring lap times. Performance table In 2013, in a joint project between Nissan Russia and LAV Productions, the 2012 model year GT-R set an unofficial national ice speed record for a production car at the Lake Baikal, in southern Siberia, Russia. The record was set by Russian racing driver Roman Rusinov, with a trap speed of 294.8 km/h (183 mph). This lake is considered as the deepest lake of the world. According to Nissan, the record car was in standard specifications with factory standard Bridgestone tyres. Official Nürburgring Nordschleife lap times Nissan has published numerous lap times for the GT-R around the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Due to its demanding nature, the "iconic" racetrack played a pivotal role in the development and served as a performance benchmark for the GT-R. Observed by Best Motoring, the GT-R improved its lap time to 7:29.03 minutes in May 2009. Porsche accused Nissan of overstating the performance of the car, claimed they conducted a test of a customer-spec GT-R and recorded a slower lap time of 7:54 minutes, apparently implying that the car was not as fast around the track as it was claimed. Nissan added the car was in standard specifications, equipped with factory standard tyres and implied that Porsche's driver was not as talented as theirs. In the following year, the GT-R with performance upgrades to the 2010 model year, improved its lap time to 7:26.70 minutes. In September 2010, Nissan returned to the Nordschleife with the facelifted GT-R, and set a lap time of 7:24.22 minutes in its first attempt in damp conditions. Due to poor track conditions, the car could not further improve its lap time and settled down with the latter lap time. According to Nissan, the GT-R improved its Nordschleife lap time again in October 2012 to 7:19.1 minutes, by due to the 2013 model year improvements. Nissan claimed that it lost half a second due to traffic, making a potential lap time of 7:18.6 minutes possible, which would equal the limited-production 911 GT2 RS. At the end of September 2013, testing was finalized for the GT-R Nismo and the development team was aiming to set a lap time under 7:10 minutes. In his second attempt, Nismo racing driver Michael Krumm recorded a lap time of 7:08.679 minutes and achieved a peak speed of on the Dottinger Hohe uphill straight. Nissan claimed it was the lap record for mass-produced cars around the track, and confirmed the record car used was equipped with post-production track options, available to customers through the N-Attack Package. The optional track-only bonnet gurney strip was also featured in the record-setting car. Independent Nürburgring Nordschleife lap times The car has set independent Nordschleife lap times in tests conducted by automotive publications, navigated by journalist drivers. In a test conducted by Drivers Republic, the GT-R and 911 GT2 set lap times of 7:56 minutes and 7:49 minutes respectively in partially damp conditions. The publication claimed the GT2 could achieve the factory lap time of 7:32 minutes, but not the GT-R going faster than 7:41 minutes in spite of the 7:29 minutes of factory claim, however the test car was equipped with the less stickier, Bridgestone summer tyres and stability control. The German magazine Sport Auto recorded a lap time of 7:50 minutes in a GT-R supplied by Nissan during an initial short test in 2007, in partially damp conditions. In 2009, in a full "Supertest", Sport Auto recorded a lap time of 7:38 minutes, driven by Horst von Saurma. It was also identical to a lap time of Corvette ZR1, recorded later by the same publication. In a test with the 2011 model year GT-R, they recorded a lap time of 7:34 minutes, again driven by Saurma it was only 10 seconds slower than the official claim. == Reception ==
Reception
The GT-R has generally received positive reviews from automotive publications and enthusiasts, particularly for its performance and practicality. It received criticism for its assisted driving experience, choice of interior materials in earlier models, and absence of a manual transmission. Magazines Motor Trend often referred to it as, "Godzilla" in their reviews, tests and drag races. In the first acceleration test in 2009, they praised its launch control system, stating "BAM! The GT-R leaves the line like an arrow from a cross-bow. The rear tyres spin for a little over a foot, the fronts never visibly slip. The acceleration screen on the centre dash confirms the test equipment's assertion that longitudinal acceleration of at least 1.0 g persists for almost two seconds. No wonder the forged-aluminium rims have little knurled ridges to keep the tyre beads from slipping." Further added, "[the GT-R] appears to dodge the laws of physics", but was criticized for not being offered with a manual transmission and interior quality, nevertheless it was named as the 2009 Motor Trend Automobile of the Year. Car and Driver gave the GT-R a positive verdict, claimed "Prejudged on its specs, the GT-R is winning on appeal", praised its acceleration and handling performance, as well as its practicality. Top Gear magazine claimed, "This car is the greatest performance bargain of this or any other century, and is one of the most incredible cars of any kind ever built. For the price of a BMW M3, you have a four-wheel-drive, super-high-tech, all-weather, 195mph supercar with tremendous ability on all roads and an almost impossibly cool image. And a boot". In the first performance test held by Road & Track, they praised the smoothness of its engine's power delivery as well as the lack of turbo lag. They added its brakes could be used to induce oversteer, noting that "steering effort is light, and the all-wheel-drive system takes much of the drama out of exiting corners". Regarding the practicality of the car, the magazine states, "There is plenty of room for a big guy and a back seat that can be used by shorter folks. The ride is on the harsh side, even with the suspension setting switched to full comfort. The various screens of the monitor are neat, though some of the materials here could be better." The magazine on conclusion states, "[the GT-R] might well be considered the most exotic car on the planet". Autocar magazine's, Chris Harris criticized the car for its ride quality, he added "with the three-way dampers set to hard, it is undriveable", but praised its performance and drivetrain, "There is only one performance car with a better powertrain than the GT-R, and it is made by Bugatti at considerable cost. With the double-clutch gearbox set to automatic you only feel a slight judder from first to second and thereafter it is, for want of a less sickly phrase, seamless". Also "there is real sophistication to the way it handles. And unlike its predecessor, the R35 does not just spit you in to oversteer. It simply catapults you away from slow turns". The motor journalist gave a conclusion, stating "I want one now! If you cannot wait for a UK car some time next year then you will need to personally import one. But believe me: if you are after the ultimate performance weapon of the moment, there is every reason to. This is the best value performance car on the planet". TV series In series 11 of the British motoring show Top Gear, Jeremy Clarkson described the GT-R's performance, saying its "acceleration is blistering, it is just savage!". Also complimented its cornering performance, he added "they have not built a new car here, they built a new yardstick", it corners faster than electricity". He was forced to end his test drive prematurely, because of its cornering speed causing him to pull a muscle in his neck at Fuji Speedway. In another episode of Top Gear, James May tested its launch control system. Following his first run using launch control, he stated "that is tremendous, I have never gone off the line that well in a car". Clarkson added "there is no car that accelerates when you look from 30 yards like this one does". In an episode of Fifth Gear, Jason Plato praised its acceleration and cornering performance, stating "it is a great car, it is fantastic fun, it is great value for money, we like it, we like it a lot". Jay Leno, in his television show, also praised its performance and overall practicality as a sports car. Accolades In addition to these accolades, the GT-R has also set Guinness World Records for the fastest accelerating four-seater production car, ice speed record for a production car, and fastest drift speed record. Top Gear, Auto Express and Car Connection entitled the GT-R as one of the best performance cars in 2015. Car Connection, again claimed the GT-R as one of the best performance cars in 2019. In 2021 and 2022, Autocar and Auto Express named it as one of the best hardcore sports cars. Road & Track mentioned the GT-R as one of the best daily drivers, while Evo Magazine claimed it as one of the best coupes in 2022. Carwow named the GT-R as one of the best sports cars of 2023. Car and Driver listed it as one of the best luxury sports cars of 2024. == Motorsport ==
Motorsport
The GT-R competed across a wide range of racing disciplines, attaining multiple successes. Notable motorsport achievements came through from its participation in sports car racing, including championship triumphs in the approvingly competitive FIA GT1 World Championship, GT World Challenge and in the Super GT series. As well as in endurance races, with consistent top order finishes in the Bathurst 12 Hour, Nürburgring 24 Hours, Spa 24 Hours among others. The car was used as the official safety car in numerous motorsport events, such as in the Super GT series, FIA GT1 World Championship, British Superbike Championship, and in the Supercars Championship. == Legacy ==
Legacy
Critics agreed the GT-R is among the best Japanese automobiles,{{Cite web|title=These are 10 of the best Japanese performance cars The GT-R has been regarded as a benchmark for sports car performance.{{Cite web|date=2025-07-04|title=Sayonara, Godzilla: one last ride through Tokyo in the R35 Nissan GT-R == References ==
Source: Wikipedia ↗
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