2017 Nissan GT-R FIRST LOOK

2017 Nissan GT-R FIRST LOOK by Auto Critic Steve Hammes

I’ve driven hundreds of high performance models during my career but few have left an indelible impression quite like Godzilla; the legendary Nissan GT-R. No supercar is easier to drive while providing virtually unparalleled accomplishments. And now, the time has come for Nissan to reveal the most significant changes to the GT-R since it was introduced to the United States in 2007.

From the front, the brands’ new “V-motion” grille appears, slightly enlarged to provide better engine cooling.  There’s a new hood, reinforced to enhance stability during high-speed driving and a front spoiler lip and bumpers situated below the headlamps update the look while generating high levels of front downforce.  Out back, there’s new bodywork along with functional side air vents next to the exhaust tips to give the GT-R a wider and more aggressive look.

Nissan aimed for a sportier and sharper looking car while retaining its slick 0.26 drag coefficient.  But the most notable upgrades are inside with a new premium interior befitting an iconic sports car.  The entire dashboard is new, wrapped in a single piece of precisely stitched Nappa leather and the layout has been improved and simplified.  Integrated navigation and audio controls greatly reduce the number of switches while a larger 8” capacitive touch-panel monitor features large icons.  The shift paddles for the thoroughly refined dual clutch 6-speed automatic are now mounted to the new steering wheel and feature improved feel and sound when engaged.

As for power, the handcrafted 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 now delivers 565 horsepower and 467 pound-feet of torque thanks in large part to extra boost– a modest increase over last year’s model.  Smoother shifts with less noise, superior acceleration in the mid to high ranges and better sound from the new titanium exhaust system are the tangible results.  Regarded as one of the world’s best handling cars, the 2017 GT-R becomes even better thanks to a more rigid structure and new suspension allowing the rubber and new 20” wheels to adhere to the road with even more tenacity while delivering a more comfortable ride with overall greater civility.  It also remains much quieter at all speeds due to Active Noise Cancellation and new sound absorption materials.  Also new for 2017 is this Blaze Metallic paint.

Pricing will be announced closer to the GT-R’s summer 2016 launch.