Nissan GT-R: Godzilla lives

Nissan GT-R: Godzilla lives


In Europe, the Nissan GT-R had already left the model range in the spring of 2022. The words of Godzilla’s life no longer corresponded to European standards. In Japan and other international markets, the super sports car is entering its 17th year. Last year there was an improved aerodynamic body and a new version of the smaller T-Spec variant. For the 2025 model year, perhaps the last for Godzilla, the changes will be more subtle.

Few changes, limited edition

Visually, the GT-R goes into the 2025 model year completely unchanged. The range in the domestic market continues to include the standard GT-R in six versions and the Nismo variant, which is offered in two dimensions. The technical upgrades are only available for the T-Spec Premium Edition and the Track Edition of the regular GT-R, which now features Nismo’s advanced internals (piston rings, connecting rods and crankshaft) for the biturbo V6. This is identified by a gold colored chassis number plate and a silver plate in the engine compartment and prevents the mechanic who built the engine by hand. The final change for the new model year is the optional blue leather interior for the Premium Edition.

In Japan, the GT-R is offered at base prices between the equivalent of 89,400 and 189,500 euros, including taxes and registration fees. In a footnote to the price list, Nissan indicates that the GT-R is only available in limited numbers. However, the manufacturer leaves open how much.

2023 facelift model with new front and new rear

A quick look at the 2024 GT-R’s design update for the 2024 model year can be identified by its new front design. Gone are the days of the V-Motion radiator grille that graced the sports car six years ago. It runs in the future with a wide air intake that reminds the generation of the R34 model. In addition, the horizontal bar in body color now cuts forward. Large air intakes flank the lower grille. Additional hexagonal lights made of hexagonal LED elements in the corners of the apron also provide a greater effect. The front spoiler lip and side air control elements were also redesigned. In general, the finer grid input is intended to provide less resistance to air.

At the back, the developers modified the lower part of the apron. The original trapezoidal central part is replaced by two rectangular elements, which place the new F1-style headlight in the middle. The four-round taillights have new graphics. The attached rear wing was raised in profile. With aerodynamic modifications, the downforce of the GT-R should be higher without increasing the drag coefficient cW 0.26. The Nismo version, which is designed to be more aggressive in all areas of aerodynamics, also had all the additional parts modified in the same style.

V6 biturbo without upgrades

No changes under the hood anymore. The 3.8 liter V6 biturbo produces a constant 570 hp and 637 Nm of torque, which is distributed to all four wheels with a six-speed double-clutch chain transmission with paddle shift. The Nismo version also has a constant 600 hp and 652 Nm of torque.

The Nissan GT-R was released in the 2024 model year in Premium and Nismo equipment variants and again as a limited edition T-Spec. The latter incorporates many features from the Nismo model. For example, the GT-R has its own 20-inch gold-colored forged rims, carbon ceramic brake system, extended steering dynamics control and wider front fenders. There are also various T-Spec decals on the body and in the interior along with a dark green leather/suede interior. Worthy of particular mention are the special paint colors available in Millenium Jade and Midnight Purple – colors that have been worn by specific iconic models from the GT-R’s history.

The Nismo has been optionally updated with a new appearance package that includes forged rims with red accents, a carbon hood covered in clear varnish and a new engine cover. Also new and unique to the range: a Gray finish.

Nissan will probably send its GT-R super sports car in its final model year. There are no longer any significant changes, but the version is limited. Last year, the Japanese made the most comprehensive reforms in years. However, this was mitigated by new aprons at the front and rear. The biturbo V6 drive once again remained untouched.