Key Points: Recaro Edition, Storm White Exterior Paint, BOSE Sound System.
The Nissan R35 GT-R is a steadfast four-wheel-drive sports car, first introduced in 2007 to replace the Skyline GT-R. The sixth generation to bear the GT-R name, the production version was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show and featured innovative aerodynamics, the lauded VR38DETT engine, active suspension and ATTESA E-TS Pro all-wheel-drive, making it the first ever rear-mounted independent transaxle all-wheel-drive vehicle. It is also among the first production cars to feature launch control and a dual-clutch transmission.
The car set a 7:38.54 lap time in damp conditions around the Nürburgring Nordschleife, beating the benchmark Porsche 911 Turbo's time of 7:40. Nissan claimed it was a new record for the fastest lap time in a mass-produced car, and in 2009, the GT-R set another record as the fastest accelerating four-seat production car.
Following a facelift in 2010, the GT-R received its second major update in 2016. It was re-codenamed ‘4BA-R35’, and featured changes including redesigned front and rear fascias to improve engine and brake cooling, reshaped C-pillars to reduce turbulence, and a strengthened bonnet to reduce deformation at high speeds.
Enhancements to engine cooling meant the twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre VR38DETT V6 could produce up to 562 hp and 467 lb ft of torque, while the redline was increased to 7,100rpm, and the six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission was remapped. A new titanium exhaust was installed to reduce weight, while a revised chassis structure improved torsional rigidity.
Furthermore, upgraded brakes, re-tuned dampers, lighter forged alloy wheels and stiffer springs improved ride quality and cornering. The interior featured a new eight-inch infotainment display, a redesigned centre console and improved sound insulation.
The Recaro Edition features a set of body-hugging lightweight Recaro sports seats, as opposed to the more comfortable but significantly heavier ‘touring’ seats found on other variants.