2017 Nissan GT-R: The Japanese Supercar is Seriously Overhauled
NEW YORK (NY) — For years, the Nissan GT-R defined what it meant to be an extreme Japanese sports car, even beating out several of Europe’s top contenders. So was it the arrival of the super-sophisticated Acura NSX that prompted Nissan to make some changes? Whatever the case, Nissan just unveiled the new generation GT-R at the New York Auto Show. Not only has it been treated to cosmetic updates, but it now boasts even better mechanical components too.
Stylish, sleek and aerodynamic
Some people love the GT-R’s silhouette, while others say it looks too much like a kit car. But chances are that the esthetic updates to the 2017 model will be well-liked. The V-shaped grille confirms Nissan’s visual signature for its new models. Plus, with a wider opening, this grille allows more air to flow into the engine compartment. Also, the front deflector is now bigger to increase aerodynamic compression.
In another bid to enhance its aerodynamics, the GT-R’s engineers carved two character lines through the hood for better air flow. They also flared the lower body skirts to direct air away from the vehicle.
The rear section was redesigned, but it still has the four round lights that the model is known for. There are functional air intakes near the quadruple exhausts. The raised beltline in back enhances the car’s sporty personality. But despite all these tweaks, the drag coefficient is still 0.26.
Practical luxury
Major changes to the interior means more comfort and sophistication for passengers in this luxury high-performance ride. The all-new dash comes with a horizontally arranged instrumentation cluster for easier viewing. The indicator dials come in a pod with leather trim.
Where there were once 27 controls, there are now just 11. And the seven-inch touchscreen has grown by an inch. The paddle shifters were redesigned and relocated to the steering wheel to make gear shifting easier when you’ve got to turn the wheel. The front bucket seats are lighter and more comfortable for long rides, offering better lateral support than before.
Faster than ever
The 3.8-litre V6 engine was updated and now delivers an extra 20 horsepower and 4 lb.-ft. of torque—pushing the totals up to 565 and 467 respectively. The engine works with a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox that’s quieter and faster than its predecessor. If you’re into engine sounds, you’ll love the rumble released from the titanium exhaust and Active Sound Enhancement system.
The GT-R has always enjoyed a good reputation for handling that puts the best sports cars to shame. Nissan’s engineers took it a step further by revising the suspension and enhancing platform rigidity. Thanks to the new suspension, the 20-inch wheels cling to corners better.
In short, the new Nissan GT-R offers more elegance, luxury and superior performance. And it comes in some eye-catching new colours, like the orange paint that’s applied in a four-step process.
In Canada, the GT-R comes with the Nissan Connect system that interacts with your smartphone.