Updated Nissan GT-R revealed, but where is the new one?
In the past decade and a half, the Nissan GT-R has held the performance saloon segment ransom with its straight-line performance, superb handling and incredible-sounding V6 unit.
Strange but true, the R35 nameplate has been around since 2007, and Nissan has yet to do much to give the GT-R a major revamp; instead just churning out special edition models. Unfortunately, cosmetics alone may not be enough.
Not to sound cliche, but for the 2023 model year, Nissan is introducing an updated GT-R model that debuted at the Tokyo Auto Salon. Subtle is the name. Unless you are a die-hard fan of the GT-R, it will probably take you a while to notice the reworked front grille and fascia that bring with it more pronounced lines.
Available in eight trim levels, including two special-edition versions, Nismo and Nismo Special Edition, Nissan says the updated GT-R features enhanced aerodynamics and refined ride quality while reducing noise and vibration.
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Speaking of the two new special models, Nissan says the Nismo uses racing technologies courtesy of redefined aerodynamic performance, suspension tuning, and a mechanical limited-slip differential.
The Nismo Special Edition, on the other hand, uses weight-balance engine parts such as piston rings, connecting rods, and crankshaft, plus a clear-coated Nismo-exclusive carbon engine hood with NACA ducts for better cooling of the V6 engine.
If this duo is too aggressive for you, the T-spec that slots below the Nismo tones down the GT-R's look.
The inside gets exclusive Recaro carbon back bucket seats that have been reworked for better comfort.
The updated GT-R still uses the same 3.8-litre turbocharged V6 engine that delivers 419 kW and 637 Nm across the range; however, the Nismo ups the ante to a steady 441 kW and 654 Nm. It still shuffles through the same 6-speed DCT transmission that pushes power to all four wheels. More than a decade old it may be but in terms of on-paper figures, Nissan's Godzilla still holds it own, to some extent, even compared to the BMW M5 Comp that produces 460 kW and 750 Nm of torque. In terms of lap timing, though, we'd likely wager on the newer tech of the M5.
Initially, news of the R35 GT-Rs being discontinued was disappointing for the GT-R die-hards, but the move to stop production of their high-performance car made sense.
We hoped that by decommissioning the current GT-R, Nissan would bring forward a fresh new model, perhaps with some electrification to boost performance.
The Nissan 400Z was a shot in the right direction as we saw a significant change in the Z lineup. The 350Z and the 370Z were overly similar in execution, but the 400Z blew both out of the water with a colossal performance upgrade and a fresh design.
The question is, why bring the same GTR back when there was so much excitement about what an R36 GT-R could be? The fan-made designs and futuristic viral posts accumulated massive attention from the car community, and people were excited about what the new GT-R could be.
Yes, the R35 GT-R is an epic car, and it has had fanboys drooling over it for years, but its time has come and gone. With that being said, Nissan probably knew just how popular the R35 is and thought it best to maintain the tuner-friendly platform would promote or even re-invigorate interest.
The ageing R35 can't possibly compete with the 'modern' offerings on the market. As much as it pains us to say it, we're disappointed with what Nissan showed the world and can only hope that, someday soon, we will see an all-new GT-R.
Words: Ntsako Mthethwa & Jordan Scmidt
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