2017 Nissan GT-R broadens its appeal to customers seeking both GT (Grand Touring) and R (Racing) experiences

Making its global debut at the New York International Auto Show this past March, the 2017 Nissan GT-R has been updated with an exciting new look both inside and out, as well as major driving performance enhancements in key areas, including a significantly reinforced chassis and more power from its twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter 24-valve V-6. The new GT-R is also more comfortable than ever, with a new sense of elegance and civility that one would rarely find in such a high-performance super sports car. In all, these revisions represent the most significant changes made to the model since it was introduced in the U.S. as a 2009 model.

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DESIGN

Exterior

The new GT-R boasts a thoroughly refreshed exterior look that adds a high sense of style to what is already considered one of the most distinctive-looking sports cars in the marketplace.

Highlighting the front of the car are a redesigned hood and front bumper, Daytime Running Lights (DRL), and a new matte chrome finish "V-motion" grille, one of Nissan's latest design signatures. This distinctive grille has been enlarged to increase airflow to cool the engine without creating additional drag, and the refined shape blends smoothly with a new, more structurally rigid hood. By greatly reducing hood deformation, testing has shown that the new hood design greatly improves aerodynamic performance at the front of the vehicle at high speeds. 

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In fact, nearly all of the visual changes made to the GT-R's exterior were intended to improve aerodynamic performance; more specifically, aerodynamic efficiency was enhanced in three key areas: downforce generation, drag reduction and improved cooling of vital vehicle systems. The goal was to maximize cooling airflow, while at the same time keeping aerodynamic drag in check (for example, not increasing drag in one area of the vehicle as a result of improving cooling performance/airflow in another).

In addition to the new grille and hood, the curving profile of the front under spoiler has been slightly extended and lowered by a few millimeters to improve airflow at its lower edge (the ground clearance of the previous model has been maintained). By reshaping the sill cover along the lower portions of the sides of the car, the amount of air being drawn underneath has been reduced, countering vehicle lift and improving stability. The C-pillars have also been redesigned, with the upper portion now shaped to deliver better airflow management by preventing the generation of a smaller vortex.

The rear of the new GT-R continues to be defined by its iconic round taillights, but a new silver-finish diffuser and new side air vents have been incorporated next to the quad titanium exhaust tips to improve the car's aerodynamics. Also, the character line that separates the lower black section from the body panel has been heightened to make the car look wider and more aggressive. The rear bumper section now incorporates the same design featured on the 2015 GT-R NISMO for better routing of air at the lower portion of the rear of the vehicle. This leads to less interference between the exhaust gases exiting the tailpipes and airflow along the rear side portions of the bumper for improved heat evacuation.

Stylish new 20-inch 15-spoke forged alloy wheels by RAYS have been redesigned for the 2017 GT-R.

Interior

Featuring superbly crafted materials, the Nissan GT-R's new interior delivers an unparalleled degree of comfort, luxury and everyday usability unlike any iteration before. Seamlessly wrapped in one continuous hide of the highest quality Nappa leather, the new dashboard adopts a "horizontal flow" to deliver a sense of high stability for the car's front-seat occupants, while the line from the instrument cluster to the center console provides a distinct driver-oriented environment for those behind the steering wheel.

In keeping with the all-out performance targets for the GT-R, the layer of cushioned material found beneath the leather is a new thinner material to help keep overall weight down, while still providing the highest quality of texture. The leather is artfully stitched together throughout the cabin by a master craftsman.

The center stack layout has been improved and simplified, with the number of integrated navigation and audio controls reduced from 27 switches in the previous model to only 11 in the 2017 version. The navigation system controls and display have been placed slightly lower on the instrument panel for easier use and better forward visibility for both the driver and front passenger. Also, the redesigned navigation system layout has been improved and the dials are now machined from real aluminum alloy for better feel and operation. An enlarged 8-inch touch panel monitor features large icons on the display screen to allow the user to easily manage the audio system, navigation system, telephone controls and other infotainment functions.

For the U.S., Canada and China market, a telematics service is also available. The icon layout can be fully customized by the user's preferences, and a new Display Command control on the carbon-fiber center console allows easy operation without having to touch the monitor.  

Other convenient information features include an innovative multi-function meter that allows the driver to customize the layout of important vehicle-specific performance parameters/information, such as coolant temperature, engine oil temperature, engine oil pressure, transmission oil temperature, transmission oil pressure and turbocharger boost pressure.

The shift paddles are now mounted to the new steering wheel, allowing drivers to change gears in mid-turn without having to take their hands off the wheel. The paddles feature improved feel and sound when engaged or adjusted. Even the circular air vents have been revised to provide precise, consistent operation every time.

The driver and front passenger seatbacks for the Premium model have been reengineered to provide a more premium ride experience through improved comfort and support, and now feature reconfigured urethane foam for better torso support, resulting in less slippage during spirited driving and reduced fatigue on long commutes. And, by reconfiguring the support wires within the seatback frame, the engineering team was able to reduce the weight of each seatback while simultaneously reducing pressure points upon the torso of both the driver and front passenger for a more relaxed seating position.

TECHNICAL

Twin-Turbocharged Engine

The GT-R's award-winning 3.8-liter V6 24-valve twin-turbocharged engine – each unit handcrafted by its own Takumi technician – now delivers 565 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 467 lb-ft of torque, representing an increase of 20 HP and 4 lb-ft, respectively, from last year's model. Power increases are due in part to an increase in boost pressure and an ignition-timing system controlled at each individual cylinder – technology previously reserved for the GT-R NISMO.

The new changes result in improved acceleration in the mid-range (3200 rpm and above) with maximum torque output available across a wider range of the powerband. Also like the GT-R NISMO, by more precisely controlling ignition timing at each cylinder, engine knock has been significantly reduced while concurrently enhancing environmental performance through a cleaner, more efficient fuel burn.

Dubbed the "VR38DETT," the engine features plasma-sprayed bores (versus cast iron liners) for reduced friction and weight, enhanced cooling, superior power output and increased fuel efficiency. It also boasts a symmetrical independent intake and exhaust manifold system with twin high-performance turbochargers; a secondary air management system for improved cold-start emissions performance; a thermostatically controlled oil-cooling system; an oil scavenger pump to maintain oil flowing to the turbochargers; and a lateral wet and dry sump oiling system.

Each engine is hand-assembled from beginning to end in a special clean room by highly skilled technicians. An aluminum plate is added to the front of each engine showing the name of the Takumi engine craftsman.

Also new is a titanium exhaust system that better manages the high temperatures of the exhaust gases from the engine. The system includes a duct on the vehicle's undertray just forward of the muffler, which guides air into the rear diffuser section to help cool the muffler and evacuate hot air.

Dual Clutch Transmission

The transmission shift-management control of the sequential 6-speed dual clutch transmission has been updated for better refinement and performance in a variety of driving situations. For example, when the vehicle begins moving from a standstill at a slow rate of acceleration, the gear shift change from 1st to 2nd gear is now much smoother than before.

With the previous-generation GT-R, once the vehicle began moving from a standstill under light throttle, the engine torque would be reduced, which could in turn produce a somewhat sluggish response. For the 2017 GT-R, under similar circumstances, the engine torque is not reduced, helping to improve smoothness upon initial acceleration even under light throttle. In addition, the exhaust note is noticeably quieter for a more pleasant experience during normal every day driving.

When driving in low-load conditions – such as on city streets or parking lots – the increased preciseness of the shift actuator allows the transmission to operate more quietly.

ATTESA E-TS All-Wheel Drive

Engine power is transferred to all four wheels of the GT-R via the world's first independent rear transaxle called the ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system. During normal driving, the GT-R behaves like a rear-drive vehicle, with the torque split set at 0:100, but it can be automatically diverted up to 50:50 depending on speed, lateral acceleration, steering angle, tire slip, road surface and yaw rate. A special GT-R-specific yaw-rate feedback control measures the differences between the target yaw rate calculated from the steering angle and actual yaw rate detected by the yaw-rate sensor and G sensor, and adjusts the torque bias accordingly.

The GT-R's Premium Midship Platform layout places the transmission, transfer case and final drive at the rear of the vehicle, without the use of traditional torque tubes, allowing the suspension to operate independently while optimizing weight distribution and maximizing tire grip at each corner.

Body & Chassis Development

For 2017, the handling capabilities and athletic performance of the new GT-R has been taken to another level, thanks to a refined suspension system and a more rigid body structure that results in improved handling and better overall vehicle stability.

Intensive engineering updates around the windshield frame, which is housed within the A-pillars, have increased the structural rigidity of the GT-R's front end, resulting in reduced deformation and crisper turn-in response. Reinforcements around the trunk have generated an increase in stiffness at the rear of the car. As a result, the rigidity levels at the front and rear of the car are more uniform, creating a more balanced chassis.

The GT-R's Bilstein® DampTronic driver-adjustable shock-absorber system – which utilizes information from multiple vehicle systems to provide appropriate damping forces and high level of control for a variety of driving situations – has been enhanced by way of a new valve housing that reduces resistance losses. Also, rigid attachment points for the suspension system enhances cornering stability and turning response by allowing all of the wheels to be placed under even a greater load while maintaining optimal contact with the road surface.

Like the previous model, the DampTronic system features three driver selectable settings: Normal; Comfort, for maximum suspension compliance; or R. The same three-stage adjustability is also available for the VDC system and transmission shift operation. For 2017, the "R" and "Comfort" settings now offer the driver enhanced sportiness and a smoother ride quality. Because of the increase in structural rigidity, the "R" mode now enables the vehicle to achieve the same yaw rate with reduced steering angle for a crisper, more communicative steering response, while the "Comfort" suspension setting produces less vertical G-loading in testing when compared to the "Normal" suspension setting. And, speaking of steering, the GT-R's system – a speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion design with aluminum steering rack, four-point mounting and stiff insulators – possesses sharper response during spirited driving, with reduced effort for around-the-town commutes and exceptional feedback on the open highway.

At the test track, the new GT-R demonstrated its awesome cornering prowess by going four percent faster through the slalom than the previous model. Also, its straight-line stability at high speeds has been greatly enhanced while requiring less steering correction and inputs; tests revealed a steering correction decrease versus last year's model.

Stopping power is provided by Brembo® monoblock six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers with 15.35-inch front and 15.0-inch rear Brembo® full-floating, cross-drilled two-piece rotors and low-steel, high-stiffness brake pads that minimize fade and provide intense stopping performance. The calipers utilize race car-style radial mounting to minimize caliper flex during extreme braking.

With its enhanced body/chassis structural rigidity and more efficient suspension system, the 2017 Nissan GT-R rewards the driver with better handling capability, increased vehicle stability and a more comfortable ride than ever before.

Improved Sound Quality with Reduced Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH)

By removing unwanted noise while concurrently augmenting the welcome sounds that please the ear – specifically the pulse-quickening sounds coming from the GT-R's free-flowing quad-exhaust  – the new GT-R invigorates the senses while maintaining a much quieter cabin at cruising speeds.

The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system identifies and reduces unwanted low-frequency sounds by using strategically placed microphones within the cabin and using a sound wave at the same amplitude through noise cancellation speakers to offset unwanted sounds. Improved sound absorption material behind the instrument panel, an acoustic windshield, a dashboard insulator and noise insulators housed within the rear fenders have been engineered to act as countermeasures to remove undesirable noise from both the engine compartment as well as the rear tires.

Additionally, the electronic control valve housed within the new titanium exhaust helps to control muffler resonance, which could otherwise create an unwanted "booming" sound from the exhaust system; ANC and the exhaust's electronic control valve essentially eliminate this issue by controlling such unwanted low frequency sound.

Also, thanks to the fitment of new titanium mufflers with an electronic control valve, Active Sound Enhancement (ASE) brings the engine's power directly into the cabin. ASE defines the sound frequency and volume of specific targets (such as the exhaust note) while simultaneously comparing it to pertinent information including engine speed and other key vehicle parameters. It processes the sound signal through the audio system's amplifier, then releases it into the passenger compartment through the speakers.

The driver can vary the sound control capability through the different vehicle mode settings – Normal, Comfort and R. Also, an exhaust sound control switch allows for a quieter engine start. By pressing the exhaust sound control switch prior to engine start, this will close the electronic valve within the exhaust system for more quiet operation at engine startup and continue for a brief time while the vehicle is driven with the engine running at low rpms. There is a 10 dB difference between having the electronic valve within the exhaust system closed and opened – a substantial difference in volumetric sound quality to the human ear.

SAFETY TECHNOLOGY

Along with the increased structural rigidity of the platform that aids with occupant protection, standard safety items included on every new 2017 Nissan GT-R consist of the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) that features dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensors that can vary the rate of air bag inflation based upon seatbelt usage and crash severity; a pair of side-impact supplemental air bags that are integrated into the front seats so that they move with the driver/front passenger as the seating position is adjusted; roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags; energy-absorbing steering column; and LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) to properly secure LATCH-compatible child restraints without having to use the seatbelts.

Other standard safety technologies include Advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) stability control system with three driver-selectable modes (Normal, R-Mode, Off), Electronic Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), RearView Monitor, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and automatic on/off headlights.   

HERITAGE

Originally ushered into the Japanese auto manufacturer's model lineup as a flagship vehicle to demonstrate the company's advanced automotive technologies and performance capabilities, the Nissan GT-R has become a revered fixture in not only the global automotive enthusiast community but has transcended the car world to become an icon in popular culture through blockbuster motion pictures as well as video games.

First Generation (1969-1972)

After making its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in the fall of 1968, a production version of the all-new GT-R (called the Nissan Skyline GT-R at the time) was introduced to the public in February 1969. Beneath the hood of this new model was the S20 powerplant, derived from a high-performance DOHC 24-valve engine of the R380. Capturing its first overall race victory at the 1969 JAF Grand Prix, this first generation GT-R was well known for its quarter-mile time of 16.1 seconds and a top speed of 125 mph.

Specifications:

Technology Highlights:

• World's first mass-produced four-valve DOHC engine.
• High-performance technology/features include variable ratio steering, MacPherson strut front suspension, semi-trailing arm rear suspension, limited slip differential (LSD), full bucket seats and 26-gallon fuel tank.

Motorsports Highlight:

• Scored 52 career race victories in Japanese touring car competition, including a miraculous 49 consecutive victories.

Second Generation (1973)

Launched in November 1972, the second generation GT-R became available to the public in January of the following year. Powered by a 24-valve DOHC inline 6-cylinder engine (S20), it was one of the first Japanese cars to include disc brakes at all four wheels. Its advanced engineering endowed it with spirited performance, making it very popular with enthusiast drivers. However, production was halted after only approximately 200 units when much stricter exhaust emission regulations were introduced in its home market.

With its excellent performance, beautifully sculpted exterior bodylines and ultra-low production volume, the second generation GT-R has become a much sought after and prized collector car.

Specifications:

Technology Highlights:

• High-performance technological features include 24-valve DOHC engine, full transistor igniter, double roller-type timing chain, variable ratio steering, MacPherson strut front suspension, semi-trailing arm rear suspension, limited slip differential (LSD), full bucket seats.

Third Generation (1989-1994) – R32

Following a 16-year absence, the GT-R model was revived in 1989. Known as the R32, it was powered by a 2.6-liter DOHC inline 6-cylinder engine (RB26DETT) that produced 276 horsepower. This was the first GT-R model that incorporated the now trademark all-wheel drive (the previous generations were rear-wheel drive vehicles).

With its sophisticated electronically controlled ATTESA E-TS and multilink suspension, the third generation GT-R holds the envious distinction of winning every single race it entered in the All-Japan Touring Car Championship.

Specifications:

Technology Highlights:

• High-performance technology/features include 2.6-liter DOHC engine, ATTESA E-TS/AWD system and front and rear multilink suspension.

Motorsport Highlights:

• Remained undefeated with 29 consecutive wins from 1990 to 1993 in the All-Japan Touring Car Championship
• Winner of the 1990 Nürburgring 24 Hours and Spa Franchorchamps 24 Hours
• Winner of the 1991 Spa Franchorchamps 24 Hours
• Victorious in the 1991 and 1992 Bathurst 1000

Fourth Generation (1995-1998) – R33

Although slightly larger and heavier than the previous generation model, the fourth generation GT-R, dubbed the R33, quickly distinguished itself with improved stability by way of better weight distribution, a much stiffer body structure, improved traction control and outright faster speed. In fact, it set a lap time on the famed Nürburgring Old Course ("Nordschliefe") of 7 minutes 59 seconds – a remarkable 21 seconds faster than the R32.

Specifications:

Technology Highlights:

• High-performance technological features include enhanced aerodynamics and a strengthened body with reduced weight for a lower center of gravity/improved weight distribution.

Motorsport Highlights:

• 1998 Japan GT Championship GT 500 title winner
• Finished 10th overall in the 1995 Le Mans 24 Hours
• Finished 15th overall in the 1996 Le Mans 24 Hours

Fifth Generation (1999-2002) – R34

The R34 GT-R was the last version of Nissan's flagship supercar powered by the RB26DETT engine and featuring the ATTESA E-TS/AWD system. Thanks to increased structural rigidity for the platform as well as being dimensionally more compact than its predecessor (the R34's wheelbase was 55 mm shorter than that of the R33 model), the fifth generation GT-R demonstrated even better handling prowess and performance. Improved aerodynamics, including a new underbody design that generated significantly more downforce, greatly aided this muscular-looking GT-R's athleticism.

Specifications:

Technology Highlights:

• High-performance technology/features include strengthened body structure, increased engine torque, limited slip differential and the fitment of a 6-speed transmission for the first time.

Motorsport Highlights:

• 2001 Japan GT Championship GT500 title winner
• Finished 5th overall in the 2002 Nürburgring 24 Hours
• Finished 5th overall and class champion in the 2004 Nürburgring 24 Hours

Sixth Generation (2007-Present) – R35

Making its debut at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show before its introduction in the U.S. as a 2009 model, Nissan's iconic high-performance flagship model remained true to its roots by offering exhilarating handling and performance through the latest high-tech automotive technology. Now accompanying the GT-R's signature four round taillights were a highly potent twin-turbocharged V-6 engine (in place of the former straight-6) and a technologically advanced road-grabbing all-wheel drive wrapped up in a thoroughly modern exterior design that looked as sleek as it did muscular.

Technology Highlights:

• High-performance technology/features include twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-6 engine, plasma-transferred wire arc sprayed cylinder liners, sequential shift 6-speed dual clutch transmission with paddle shifters, highly advanced ATTESA E-TS/AWD system, and Nissan's Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC-R) system.

Motorsport Highlight:

• 2011 Super GT GT 500 Champion
• 2012 Super GT GT 500 Champion
• 2015 Blancpain Endurance Series Champion
• 2015 Super GT GT 500 / 300 Series Champion
• Winner of the 2015 Bathurst 12 Hour

About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program and has been recognized annually by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency as an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year since 2010. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at NissanUSA.com and InfinitiUSA.com, or visit the U.S. media sites NissanNews.com and InfinitiNews.com.

About Nissan Motor Co.
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second-largest automotive company, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, and is part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 247,500 employees globally, Nissan sold 5.32 million vehicles and generated revenue of 11.38 trillion yen (USD 103.6 billion) in fiscal year 2014. Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of more than 60 models under the Nissan, Infiniti and Datsun brands. Nissan leads the world in zero-emission mobility, dominated by sales of the LEAF, the first mass-market, pure-electric vehicle. It is the best-selling EV in history. For more information on our products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit our website at Nissan-Global.com/EN/.

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Contact

Dan Passe
Senior Manager, Product Communications, Nissan Division
Office: 615-725-5264
dan.passe@nissan-usa.com