With an all-electric future and a replacement in just four years, based on reports from 2020, Nissan has given the iconic GT-R another round of updates before it goes on sale at the end of this year.
Change, really?
The adaptation this time is more focused on aesthetics, the seventh reworking of the GT-R since it was unveiled to the world at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007 consists of a new mesh pattern grille, rounded front and rear fascias, a new rear wing and restyled side vents. as a means of improving aerodynamics.
As part of yet some more slim-lining, Nissan has reduced the GT-R line-up to three distinct models; Premium standard, a special edition T-Spec announced in 2021 and the flagship GT-R Nismo returning for the first time since 2019.
Also read: Next Nissan GT-R prepares for 2023 with electric assistance
Three models
Building on the updates applied to the Premium, the T-Spec has yet to receive additional tweaks, meaning it retains Ray’s Engineering 20-inch forged alloy wheels, carbon ceramic brakes from Nismo, T-Spec badging, carbon fiber rear. wings and two colors that pay homage to the Skyline GT-R34; Millennium Jade and Midnight Purple.
In contrast to the Nismo, although it also receives a new rear wing with a larger surface area, again as an aerodynamic aid, a revised diffuser and front lip spoiler, and, as part of the new Nismo Appearance Package, carbon fiber. engine cover and bonnet, red accent, black Ray’s Engineering 20-inch forged iron and a new unique color called Stealth Grey.
Inside, the main overhaul centers around changes in materials and other specification items rather than a complete redesign. In the case of the Premium, napa leather now adorns the dashboard with the T-Spec sporting a combination of semi-aniline suede and Mori Green upholstery for the seats.
Standard fare on all three models is an upgraded eleven-speaker Bose sound system, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors and a reworked eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system that still displays the lap time, readout engines and specific power delivery charts to name but a few.
In addition to including Recaro seats with synthetic suede inserts and red stitching and an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, the Nismo also receives larger rotors for Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, the first limited-slip front differential and carbon fiber roof, bootlid, mirrors. cover and door sills to keep the weight down.
There is no electrification
Under the hood, the powerful 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged VR38DETT V6 engine that has powered the GT-R since its debut 16 years ago has not benefited from any other changes.
Last calibrated for more power and torque in 2020, the unit produces 421kW/632Nm in the Premium and T-Spec and 441kW/632Nm in the Nismo.
As usual, the amount of twist is sent to Nissan’s all-wheel-drive ATTESA ET-S via a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, with all three models getting unique tires from Dunlop as standard.
when?
Going on-sale in Japan at the end of this year with the United States soon, Nissan South Africa is still to confirm whether the updated GT-R will be available, but should it be approved, expect to arrive around the second quarter of the year even without including the T-Spec.