2011 Nissan GT-R

The Nissan GT-R, first unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show back in October 2007, has received a comprehensive range of updates that cover the engine, chassis and bodywork.

In Japan, the GT-R will be now sold in six flavours: as well as the standard car (available in either Pure Edition, Black Edition or Premium Edition specifications) and the SpecV model, there are now Club Track and EGOIST versions too.



Base models see output from the V6 twin turbo engine increased to 523 bhp (390 kW / 530 PS), up from the 485 bhp (362 kW / 492 PS) of the 2010 GT-R. Peak torque also climbs to 612 Nm, an improvement of 24 Nm, and is available from 3,200 to 5,000 rpm.



To achieve those enhancements the turbo boost pressure, valve timing and air mixture ratio have all been modified. Additionally, the diameter of the air inlet pipe has been increased, and an enlarged exhaust is now fitted to reduce back pressure. Nissan is saying that fuel economy is improved too and, to help this, the 2011 GT-R comes with a ‘SAVE’ mode that adjusts engine torque and gear shift patterns when cruising.



The suspension components have also been fine tuned to improve road-holding, with the 2011 GT-R receiving new design dampers and brake discs. In an effort to reduce unsprung weight the Rays alloy wheels are now lighter, and they come shod in Dunlop tyres whose compound has been tweaked to provide more grip.



Exterior changes have been focussed on redesigning the front and rear bumpers. As a result, downforce is reckoned to be improved by 10%, while the GT-R’s drag coefficient has reduced from 0.27 to 0.26.



SpecV cars get the same engine upgrades as the standard GT-R, except maximum torque is further increased to 632 Nm when an overboost function is activated. Other changes include a different material for the rear brake pads and adjustments to the Vehicle Dynamic Control system, both measures aimed at track users. The Rays alloy wheels on the SpecV are painted Metallic Black, instead of the Hyper Blue Black Chrome finish used for the base models.



Club Track is aimed, as the name suggests, at drivers who want to use their GT-R exclusively on the circuit. Special events will be organised for owners, including races and on-to-one tuition.



EGOIST meanwhile has an emphasis on luxury and individuality. Customers will be able to choose any one of twenty colours for the leather interior trim, which is then hand stitched in Germany. A Bose sound system is included and, to complete the effect, the Rays alloy wheels, titanium exhaust system and carbon fibre rear spoiler from the SpecV are fitted.



But that’s Japan. In the UK, the 2011 GT-R will just be sold as a single model - essentially the Japanese standard model - with no sign of even the SpecV making it here yet.



There will be a choice of two interior trim packages, though. Recaro Black, unsurprisingly, features Recaro seats upholstered in black leather with red side flashes, and it comes with a dark headlining. Alternatively, buyers can go for a different seat design that’s available in black or light grey leather. With this option, the GT-R features a light grey headlining to give an airier feel to the cabin.



Regardless of the interior, the price has been confirmed at £69,950 in the UK, which includes VAT at the increased 20% rate (which comes into force at the start of next year). The 2011 Nissan GT-R can be ordered now at Nissan High Performance Centres.