Nissan introduced the GT-R more than ten years ago as the Japanese company's halo model. Nissan designed the GT-R as a long-awaited spiritual replacement for Nissan's legendary sports coupe hero, the Skyline GT-R, with its origins dating all the way back to the 1950s.

When the new model eventually came out in the 2000s, Nissan opted to eliminate the Skyline link and call it the Nissan GT-R. This was because it was such an exotic and unique vehicle. The GT-R was thrust to the forefront of popular culture for many years due to its astounding performance, manga-inspired style, and the legend of the giant-killing Skyline. The frenzy has somewhat subsided as of late. However, the GT-R's ongoing improvements have kept fan enthusiasm alive. The UK presently sells about 300 units of the car each year.

The most luxurious model of the GT-R coupe is the Nissan GT-R Nismo. It's a technical marvel that is incredibly strong and quick. Nissan based the GT-R Nismo on an improved GT-R that has been available at a few Nissan dealers since early 2017. Nissan made numerous upgrades to the GT-R Nismo. This includes a new style, improved performance, and several other improvements.

It's safe to say the GT-R Nismo is a formidable vehicle that looks like it came out of Gran Turismo. Let’s have a look at what it offers.

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The Nissan GT-R Nismo Dresses To Impress

White 2022 Nissan GT-R Nismo front
via: Nissan

The GT-R Nismo's more angular aesthetic cues lack the sleekness of modern rivals, but there's no denying that this sports car has tons of presence. Quad-exit tailpipes, a sizable rear wing, and an aggressive front end with extended LED headlights are all present on it. The Godzilla possesses a handful of features that keep your eyes glued to it.

The Nismo has a carbon fiber hood, top, trunk lid, and vented front fenders above the normal GT-R. Nissan mounts it on forged 20-inch Rays alloy wheels covered in high-performance Dunlop rubber. Aerodynamic changes include openings in the front fender. Both flush-mounted door handles and power-folding mirrors are standard.

The GT-R Nismo is a big car, so its presence draws attention in addition to its striking style. For instance, the Nissan is nearly ten inches longer than an Audi R8. The vehicle's important measurements are 184.6 inches in length, 109.4 inches in wheelbase, 74.6 inches in width, and 53.9 inches in height. Although it weighs 68 lbs less than the standard GT-R, it is still somewhat hefty at 3,867 lbs. However, despite the Acura NSX's additional weight from its hybrid components, the GT-R Nismo is just 11 lbs lighter than the Acura NSX.

The Nissan GT-R Nismo Is Phenomenal On The Road

White 2022 Nissan GT-R Nismo driving
via: Nissan

The large coupe makes a noteworthy impression on the road. Nissan's uninspiring titled VR38DETT 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine powers the GT-R Nismo and produces 600 horsepower and 481 lb-ft of torque. This is an increase of 35 horsepower and 14 lb-ft above a standard GT-R. The Nismo utilizes several turbochargers taken from the company's GT3 racer. However, these specifications aren't brand-new. For greater reaction, they spool up more quickly. When you're humming at 3,000 rpm, power delivery is nothing short of instantaneous. However, there is some discernible lag below that.

The Nismo has a vintage six-speed dual-clutch transmission, which is advantageous in this situation. You can stay in third gear for significant stretches of S-curves since there are fewer gears available. It does this while maintaining a constant engine speed at 4,000 to 5,000 rpm.

Although you won't need to utilize paddle shifters, they do provide a quick reaction if you need to change cogs. In 2020, a reprogramming of the transmission's automated default setting got introduced, and is now fully calibrated for all driving conditions. The dual-clutch box always acts appropriately, whether you're driving about town or putting it through its paces on a fantastic road.

Though lighter than you might expect, the steering is still remarkably responsive. The GT-R promotes and frequently necessitates fingertip handling. With a 55/45 weight distribution, it enables the front axle to truly bite.

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The GT-R Nismo Is Way More Reliable Than One Would Expect From A Sports Car

White 2022 Nissan GT-R Nismo side
via: Nissan

One benefit of the Nissan's age is that the GT-R hasn't seen any significant reliability problems over the years. It's a surprise with all its sophisticated mechanicals. According to CarBuzz, the most recent issue occurred in 2019. It was concerning a rearview camera that occasionally failed to provide photos, therefore limiting driver vision.

The warranty, however, could be better. The base warranty on the GT-R only lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. Compared to Audi, it feels like a bit of a stretch. Audi sells its cars with a standard warranty lasting an additional year or 14,000 miles. However, Nissan entitles its GT-R owners to a drivetrain warranty for five years and 60,000 miles. Additionally, it has roadside support for the same time frame and distance.

Sources: Nissan, NISMO, CarBuzz