Nissan’s R35 GT-R legend lives on
Most tuners’ dream lists start with the R35 GT-R. It’s a car that was practically perfect from the showroom for track days, and for a while, we believed its time had come and gone, leaving room for a much-needed R36 to fill the gap. Well, the space has now been filled, but the badge still remains as Nissan is set to launch a new R35 GT-R with numerous additions to meet enthusiast demands.
With its claim that it is committed to “pursuing the ultimate driving pleasure,” Nissan appears to be quite proud of its updated vehicle. Given its capabilities at the time, the original R35 would fit into the ‘ultimate driving pleasure’ category, but the fact that its appearance has remained largely unchanged 16 years later raises some questions.
This new GT-R does bring the heat if you’re willing to spend the cash on an up-specced model. The GT-R maintains its beloved VR38DETT, mated to a 6-speed DCT, while the Pure, Black, and Premium editions see minimal changes.
In addition to the two Nismo options, the more expensive Premium Edition T-Spec, Track Edition, and Track Edition T-Spec come with high-precision weight-balanced crankshafts, connecting rods, and piston ringsâ”a feature that was previously exclusive to the Nismo editions.
At this time, the new R35 has been confirmed for the Japanese market, and the question still remains if South Africa will bring back the Godzilla. Prices for the GT-R vary greatly, with the Pure starting at R1,721,981, the Track Edition T-Spec at R2,729,202, and the Nismo Special Edition, the most expensive variant, at R3,649,865. These prices are for the Japanese market; if the R35 makes its way here, expect to pay a premium over the above prices.
The look has been slightly improved while maintaining the overall GT-R shape; the front bumper, although less busy than the pre-update model, has been adapted along with the bonnet, side skirts, and other minor exterior changes, yet for the most part, it remains the same.
Though it’s intriguing that Nissan hasn’t been able to completely phase out the R35 yet, it raises the question of whether the vehicle is simply too outdated for 2024, particularly given its price. With little change over the last 16 years, it may be time to start hoping for an R36, but this could bring with it a full EV. For now, at least we get to enjoy another JDM legend for a little while longer.
