The Nissan GT-R has a lot to brag about. It has always been one of the most sought-after sports cars ever built. As the successor of the Nissan Skyline, the Nissan GT-R has a lot to prove to be on the same page as its predecessor.
After 15 years in the market, the impressive thing about the Nissan GT-R is its evolving performance. Not only has it continued to be known as "Godzilla," a nickname granted by various television programs, magazines, and automotive publications about its predecessor, but it has also achieved its own glory and while earning the title, "Supercar Killer."
A testament to craftsmanship
Nissan is proud that they have built the GT-R with utmost craftsmanship and dedication. There are only five master craftsmen in the world allowed to hand-assemble its engines. And they get to attach a plaque carrying their name on each.
Imagine the dedication Nissan has poured into making the Nissan GT-R unique versus its mass-produced rivals in the field. From the beginning, the Japanese car manufacturer employed expert drivers to fine-tune the vehicle and ensure that it would excel in any kind of weather, on any race track, and in the hands of any level of the driver. No doubt the GT-R has been on top of its Japanese contemporaries in terms of providing the best performance on- and off-track. And that has made the GT-R the people's sports car and grand tourer. Yet another title it can tuck under its illustrious belt.
Race-proven technology
Another feature the Nissan GT-R is well-known for is its unique-sounding exhaust note. The GT-R's distinct sound comes from its four large titanium exhaust pipes which were also hand-built, and specifically designed for each individual vehicle, by Nissan's master craftsmen. The roar coming from its titanium pipes is a head-turner on the road and hypes up the aggressiveness of every driver on the race track.
That commanding sound emanates from its 3.8-Liter turbocharged Biturbo V6 engine. It produces a powerful 565 horsepower and 600-Newton meters of torque. It is mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) which drives all four wheels. The GT-R also has dry-sump lubrication in its transmission. It sprays transmission oil directly to the gears to reduce friction and increase reliability. It's like having a race-proven support system to ensure reliability in a wide range of driving conditions.
Asia's king of sportscars
From its mind-blowing features and legendary backstory, we can get an idea of how great this "Supercar Killer" is. Even without having first-hand driving experience with one yet. The dedication Nissan has put into developing and making it a phenomenal sports car is beyond impressive. It shows that Nissan wanted nothing but perfection with the GT-R.
According to car enthusiasts who have driven the Nissan GT-R throughout the years, it is even far better than its closest European-made rivals. It surely is the best sportscar from Asia under all driving and performance parameters.
Driving versatility
The Nissan GT-R has three driving modes – Normal, R, and Special. Normal Mode is best for daily city driving as it delivers a smooth and refined ride. On the other hand, R-Mode is for maximum GT-R performance. It suits motorsport scenarios and race track driving. And the Special Modes have three further options – Save Mode, Comfort Mode, and Off Mode. The Special Save Mode is for long-distance driving and gentler torque delivery; the Special Comfort Mode adapts and adjusts for more driving comfort by damping the force of the shock absorbers. And the Special Off Mode disengages the VDC system.
Designed with purpose
In terms of design, Nissan has improved the already competent GT-R with aerodynamic enhancements that provide an incredibly clean 0.26 Cd od drag coefficient. While Nissan takes the lead in exterior sports car design, the manufacturer also makes sure that every curve and material they use helps promote better aerodynamics and maintain the supercar's high-performance reputation. On top of that, the V-motion grille up front, and the massive boot and signature infinity taillamps, have become iconic features over the years.
Ahead of its time
Inside the cabin, the GT-R shows nothing but luxury and excitement as the materials used are premium and high quality. Alcantara fabric covers most parts of the cabin interior, especially the dashboard panel and the steering wheel. The stitches are hand-made and provide a comfortable fit for every driver. Although, I have to say that there's room for improvement for the infotainment touchscreen and instrument cluster's look. Despite their dated looks, the displays' performance still matches that of the car. The advanced tech features are there, and they remain to be highly functional to this day.
When it comes to safety, the 2022 Nissan GT-R has Nissan Connect Services - a suite of digital alerts and access features designed to provide roadside assistance, help you remotely locate and lock your car, and send notifications to your phone. This is on top of the standard technology and safety features it already offers.
The Nissan GT-R remains a superior sports car 15 years after its introduction. And as we have seen over the years, there is more than one reason why it does.
Also Read: Nissan GT-R The Everyday Supercar, Sells Itself with Just Its Reputation