Collection of R35/V35 Information
12-17-2004 | 12:50 PM
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Collection of R35/V35 Information
If anyone else comes across any info, please post here.
The following is what I have so far:
SkylineAustralia:
a) Nissan are well aware of the popularity of the GT-R outside of Japan, and are looking to make the next GT-R well and truly stand out more than previous incarnations. The "World Market GT-R" as it were... just by translating the article from Holiday Auto, you can feel that the next GT-R has truly broken away from the "old" R-series GT-Rs... (I can hear the crying and monitor bashing from here!)
b) Porsche 911 Turbo is going down... in fact, it seems Nissan are already claiming victory (???)... such is their confidence after the Nurburgring tests. Apparently, the first test failed because some driveline hardware was faulty, but the subsequent 2 tests were successful enough for Nissan to make final decisions on the driveline: 3.2L V6 Twin electric-assisted Turbo, FR-L platform (Primary Front engine/Rear wheel drive transaxle, motor-assisted front wheel drive or "e-4WD") with Getrag 7-speed sequential gearbox.
After much deliberation about 3.0, 3.5 and even 4.1L capacities for the VQ engine, they've decided on 3.2. The thing to bear in mind here is the Porsche 911 Turbo... it seems Nissan may want to defeat Porsche with less capacity...
Expected final power output: 480ps @ 7,200rpm, 58.0kg/m @ 5,200rpm.
c) Other specs of note are the "semi-wet sump" (as opposed to the dry sump originally quoted) and the aluminum space frame, steel cabin and bulk usage of carbon throughout.
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Rezz October 2004 Issue Analysis
Yes, it's a left-hand drive "Infinity"... LHD in Germany remember!
A German photographer snapped these pics recently, remarking on how quickly the car was traveling around that part of the 'ring. A professional driver from Japan has been flown to Germany to carry out "overall" testing with emphasis on aerodynamics appraisal.
The test at Nurburgring wasn't about parts testing, but overall performance and handling, suggesting that the GT-R has entered the middle phase of development where engineers concentrate on the entire package rather than just separate parts. The front bumper seen in the pic above isn't the final design!!! It's a just a quick bumper that’s been made so the car has some kind decent airflow characteristics without any attention to styling.
The rear wing on the other hand does give a big hint as to what the final one will look like. The reporter from Best Car was surprised that the rear wing is just your generic late model FD3S RX-7 type wing with beefed up end plates. The wide fenders will make the GT-R 100mm wider than the current V35 Skyline Coupe, making it the same width as the current Porsche turbo. Some effort has been put forward to make the fenders blend in as a component of the complete aerodynamics package, one that will become one of the strongest merits of the car.
Best Car couldn't report on much about the engine this time around, but were quick to point out that a "number" of different engine capacities are being tested, 3.2, 3.3, 3.5 and possibly a 4.0 (a la the V36 VQ41DE) but still retaining the electric spool-up twin turbo configuration. Also note the two air opening under each headlight on the pics above, they apparently feed each turbo, with a highly efficient intercooler design making use of the third opening. Power is still being set at about 460ps.
Just a final note, the engine is the ultimate "saving grace" for this V-series GT-R, and as far as Best Car can see, Nissan WILL NOT disappoint in this area... so guys, sit back, don't write off the next GT-R just yet (although I almost did!)
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Edmunds
What Edmunds.com Says: It may end up wearing an Infiniti badge, but this next generation Skyline should have all the attitude of its Nissan cousins.
What We Know: After years of rumors and intense lobbying by Nissan enthusiasts in the U.S., Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn announced that his company plans to release a fully redesigned version of the legendary Skyline GT-R by 2007. The new version will take its cues from the GT-R concept car that has made the rounds at various auto shows over the past several years, and unlike its predecessor the GT-R will make its way to the U.S. With the 350Z already occupying a steady spot in Nissan's lineup, look for the GT-R to come Stateside wearing an Infiniti badge. A prototype caught testing on Germany's grueling Nurburgring test track made the rounds wearing the shell of a current G35, but obvious signs of serious modifications indicate it was no ordinary Infiniti. The car is expected to debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in the fall of 2007 and go on sale later that year.
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Car & Driver – October 2004
The illustration below depicts the upcoming Nissan Skyline GT-R. The GT-R version of the Skyline has always been a special high-performance offering in Nissan's lineup, and this one will continue that tradition. The GT-R probably has the record for the number of car-mag stories about a vehicle that has never been available in the U.S., and it remains high on our wish list.
Built on a new platform that is not shared with the standard-model Skyline, or Infiniti G35 coupe, as it's known stateside, it will likely make the GT-R far more expensive than run-of-the-mill G35 coupes.
There are conflicting reports out of Japan regarding the powerplant. One camp believes the GT-R will be powered by a Cosworth-developed twin-turbo version of the current 3.5-liter V-6, offering at least 450 horsepower. Others believe a new twin-turbo 3.2-liter V-6 will get the call.
To make sure the GT-R has supercar handling, chassis engineers from Lotus were selected to develop its steering, suspension, and drivetrain. Could this special Skyline so long denied to U.S. enthusiasts finally come to the States? "G35 GT-R" has a certain ring to it, but it's up to Nissan or Infiniti's product planners to decide whether it will come to our shores.
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Wombat – July 2004
GTR 2007
Ever since the Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R launched in 1998, few cars have been able to match it for sheer enjoyment behind the wheel.
While Skyline fans in Japan and the US have been able to bide their time with the new Skyline and Infiniti G35 sports sedan respectively, everyone else has had to make do with the (admittedly brilliant) 350Z.
And while the 350Z and G35 Skyline are by no means placid, the sheer muscle of the GT-R has left a large void in Nissan's line-up, and many are still waiting patiently for the new model.
As much as we wish we could say "The wait is now over," we can't.
But we do know that Nissan has just registered the name 'Infiniti GT-R' in Australia, with side notes along the lines of "super-coupe due 2007".
While Australia, like Japan, has never had the American-style twin-naming conventions of Nissan and Infiniti, this looks set to change over the next few years, and the next Tokyo Motor Show will shed some light on why the hallowed GT-R nameplate has been shelved for so long.
At present there is very little concrete evidence regarding the next generation Skyline/Infiniti GT-R.
An 8-speed automatic gearbox is one of the rumored items to be making its debut, as are magnetic valves, but it's been so long between drinks for the GT-R that there are sure to be more surprises in store.
One of which will be the engine. The heart and soul of the latest model GT-R, the 1998 R34, was its RB26DETT inline, 2.6-litre 6-cylinder engine.
Though the manufacturer quoted the engine as outputting 280bhp or 208kW of power @ 6800rpm, that figure was very conservative, and the twin-turbo nature of the engine ensured copious amounts of torque - 392Nm @ 4400rpm to be precise.
So what's the word on the new Godzilla engine? Some insiders have changed their tune of a 6-cylinder turbo mill to a nat atmo V8, which probably wouldn't go down well with the traditionalists.
What about a more traditional inline six? Unlikely, as Nissan would have to go to the drawing board for that one.
At present the most likely candidate for the new GT-R will be the same engine used in the 350Z and other Nissan applications, the VQ35DE 3.5-litre quad-cam V6.
Feann Torr, one of our road testers, reviewed the 350Z back in August of 2003, and he was mightily impressed with its smooth yet torquey nature.
He said: "The final word on Nissan's V6 engine? Brilliant. And get this: There is even talk that Nissan will take this 3.5-litre engine and bolt on a pair of turbochargers for use in new 350kW+ R35 GT-R, set to hit the streets in 2005. Drool..."
Well, his prediction that the next generation GT-R will arrive in 2005 may be somewhat premature, but the twin turbo 3.5-litre V6 power train is close to the mark, possibly codenamed the VQ35DETT.
350 kilowatts is one number, but many of Nissans big wigs have been overheard in the past talking about the new car rivaling some of Porsche's. So can we expect even more power - 500bhp perhaps?
Even if this 350kW twin-turbo V6 engine did see the light of day in the 2007 GT-R, it would create one very quick thoroughbred car, especially is it tips the scales at under 1500kg (the R34 weighed 1666kg).
But on the topic of thoroughbreds, Nissan and its parent company Renault want to sell the new GT-R worldwide, so don't be surprised if some compromises are made to suit a myriad of regional design rules.
The new GT-R is likely to be AWD, like its predecessor, but whether a new version of the ATTESA system will be included is not yet known.
The ATTESA system in previous GT-R's used a 16-bit microprocessor to monitor the car's movements at something like 100 times per second, with sensors recording wheel rotation plus lateral and longitudinal acceleration. When one wheel slipped, it simply diverted more torque to the wheels with grip.
An upgraded version, perhaps with a 32-bit processor, of the ATTESA system could be implemented in the 2007 GT-R, though the R34's all-wheel-steering Super HICAS (the rear-wheels could be turned by 1°) system is less likely to make it into the 21st century GT-R.
Another big issue for many hardcore GT-R fans will be the styling, and what of the trademark circular tail lights that adorn the rear? In 2001 Nissan unveiled what it called the GT-R Concept, which looked to be modeled on a 350Z chassis - but even it came with the trademark circular tail lights.
And it was supposed to reach production in 2004. So much for that.
But notice how it was called the 'GT-R Concept', and not the 'Skyline' or 'Infiniti' GT-R Concept? After Nissan Australia registered the name Infiniti GT-R recently, it now makes sense, as the vehicle is almost guaranteed to be called the Skyline GT-R in the Japan and the Infiniti GT-R everywhere else in the world. And it's understandable, as even today the R32, R33 and R34 models are treated like aluminum alloy masterpieces.
But while the GT-R concept that appeared in 2001 is a good indication of how the new GT-R may look, some rumors suggest that the car will be more akin the 2004 model Nissan Skyline/Infiniti G35 sports coupe.
With the revelation of the GT-R Concept at the Tokyo Motor Show 2001, Nissan has finally ended these discussions. The radical GT-R Concept gives an impression of what the replacement of the Skyline GT-R (due 2004) might look like.
So, with the new skerrick of information that promises to end the speculation of when the legendary Nissan GT-R will makes its debut, all we have to do now is play the waiting game.
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Speed Magazine – July 2004
"NEW GT-R NOW R36"
SOURCES close to Nissan have revealed some of the reasons why the R35 has been held over until 2007. Apparently, Nissan didn't want to introduce their halo model towards the end of the V35 model lifespan.
With the scheduled release of the new V36 Skyline, Ghosn and Co realized that it would be best to develop the new GT-R in sync with the V36 platform and skyline, another rumored factor in the delay was that engineers weren't happy that it was a big enough step up from the last R34 godzilla and are working on adding spice to the R36 to increase the gap between the last of the RB-powered GT-Rs and the new V6 versions.
The JDM "R" will score a twin-turbo-charged VQ-series vee-six, although precious specific details are non-existent. However, our "mole" reckons there's a good chance of seeing a Japanese-spec R36 GT-R Down Under, but we shouldn't hold our collective breath for the less potent V36 Skyline models.
Rumours are firming up that the American Infiniti-badged versions will be pushed by a variant of the VK-series V8, of either 5.4-litre or 5.6-litre capacity. This stems from emission regulations and concerns over Yanks' sometimes less-than-stellar reputation for maintenance and servicing.
One area that has been approved is the model designations: the official name of the new Godzilla will be Nissan R36 GT-R (for Japan) and Infiniti R36 GT-R for Yankland.
Thanks to some misconstrued statements from global Nissan press, internet keyboard warriors had predicted the new model would abandon the R-prefix for a v V-designation, due largely to the current Skyline-range being tagged the V35 and the new motor family being branded VQ (instead of RB).
The R name got the nod because it ties the new car back to Godzilla's legacy and will hold it above more pedestrian Skylines.
On top of this information come news that Nissan are planning to release a "mini-GT-R" V36 Skyline. Whispered to be an entry-level sport-oriented coupe, with four-wheel drive.
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Autoweek – May 2004
Nissan's boxy Cube, next-gen Skyline GT-R expected to come to U.S.
TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co. is expected to sell the next generation of its tiny Cube and the high-performance Skyline GT-R sports car in the United States.
The Cube could become Nissan's youth-targeted Toyota Scion-fighter, and the Skyline GT-R would extend the Infiniti range.
"The next Cube and the next Skyline GT-R will be sold globally," says Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn.
He wouldn't say where the cars would be sold, but analysts expect them to be in U.S. showrooms. Both cars are being engineered for North America.
"There are no global markets without America," says Tatsuo Yoshida of Deutsche Securities Ltd. in Tokyo.
The boxy 1.4-liter Cube will be redesigned in 2006.
Nissan stopped production of the 280-hp, 2.6 liter Skyline GT-R in 2002, but a new version is planned in 2007.
The Cube, which costs the equivalent of $10,890 in Japan, could counter the Scion brand. Toyota sold 7,675 units of the similarly shaped Scion xB in the United States during the first quarter of this year. The xB starts at $13,680, including destination.
The new tC sports coupe will be added to the Scion lineup in June. Toyota forecasts Scion sales to total 100,000 in the United States next year. The Scion brand now consists of the boxy xB and wedge-shaped xA hatchback.
Next year's redesigned Nissan Sentra will be larger than the current model, says Kunihiko Shiohara, analyst at Goldman Sachs (Japan) Ltd. He says the Cube could be needed for positioning below the Sentra.
Shiohara and other analysts expect Nissan to build the Cube at its Aguascalientes, Mexico, plant.
Analysts say the Skyline GT-R would help boost Infiniti's image. The car "could be the top brand among Infiniti sports cars," says Shotaro Noguchi of Mitsubishi Securities.
The new Cube and Skyline GT-R are among 28 new and redesigned models Nissan says it will introduce in the next three years.
The plan calls for annual global sales of 4.2 million units in the fiscal year ending in March 2008. Nissan expects to sell 3.38 million vehicles in the fiscal year which began in April.
Of the extra 820,000 sales, the Japanese automaker expects 250,000 to come from North America, 150,000 from Japan, 70,000 from Europe and 350,000 from other markets.
Nissan has ample cash to develop the models. It posted a record operating profit of $7.29 billion on a consolidated basis in the fiscal year that ended March 31.
The 11.9 percent jump from the previous year was driven by a 10.4 percent increase in global unit sales to 3.05 million, the first time Nissan sales have topped 3 million in 13 years.
That pushed Nissan's operating margin up by 0.3 percentage points to 11.1 percent. Net income also rose 1.7 percent to $4.45 billion on revenues of $65.60 billion, up 8.8 percent over the previous year.
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Autoweek – Mar. 2004
911 specs, Nissan price
We’ve already told you Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn has promised the return of the Skyline GT-R at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, followed by worldwide sales—United States included (AW, Nov. 3, 2003). Ghosn has said development time for a globally competitive car explains why the car won’t appear until then, but now he has narrowed the field of sports cars to a key benchmark for the next GT-R: Porsche’s 911. “It has really good performance” while having an affordable price tag, says Ghosn.
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Autoweek – Oct 2003
Nissan Skyline GT-R coming to U.S., but not until ’07
By MARK VAUGHN
NISSAN CHIEF CARLOS Ghosn confirms the Skyline GT-R will debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007, with customer sales starting soon after that. The car will make “around 400 hp” and offer “top-level driving performance.”
Video game fans on these shores who have long enjoyed the high-speed thrills of the GT-R will have a chance to drive it (so long as they can pony up the cash). Ghosn says the car will be sold here.
Sure, but why the long wait? Well, it’s not as bad as the first proposal, which was for a 2008 or 2009 GT-R launch. And, if you haven’t noticed, Nissan has been working on a lot of other products lately—and doing a pretty good job with them, too—so there weren’t spare engineers to toil away on a fairly low-volume supercar. At one point, the company was looking for a partner to help share development of the GT-R, but could not find one with whom it was happy.
Ghosn says the GT-R will offer “top performance worldwide, not just compared to our cars.
“If you look at a car and think it’s a tiger, you’re not going to be happy if you get in and drive it and it’s a cat,” Ghosn explains.
Ghosn says the price will be relatively reasonable: “You won’t have the feeling you’re being ripped off.”
That’s still kind of vague, but it sounds like the GT-R will not be another half-million-dollar Enzo/SLR/Carrera GT supercar, at least not in the finance department.
The exterior will probably not look like the concept car shown at Tokyo two years ago, either, though the decision on which of many design proposals submitted has not been made.
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Nissan Press Global - October 2003
#37 Tokyo Motor Show Press Briefing
“Another Nissan legend will be shown here in 2007 – the GT-R. Development of the new GT-R is on schedule, and it is being engineered to claim its place among the world’s elite sports cars. More details will come closer to its launch.”
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Dow Jones Business News
Nissan Motor To Launch New GTR Sports Model Globally 2007
Wednesday October 22, 12:31 am ET
TOKYO -(Dow Jones)- Nissan Motor Co. will market from 2007 a new model of its flagship sports auto, the "GTR," as "a global car," president Carlos Ghosn said Wednesday at a round-table meeting with the media.
It will be the first time for Nissan to market the model globally. Ghosn said the company will launch the model in markets including the U.S., Europe and Japan.
The new GTR is expected to be the successor to the Skyline GTR model, which was launched in January 1998 and available only in Japan. Nissan stopped marketing that model in August 2002.
Ghosn declined to provide any sales targets for the new model
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Rezz - 09/26/03 10:29 AM
Power: 480ps (352kw!) @ 7200rpm
Torque: 58kg/m @ 4800rpm
The GT-R concept has been finalized. The new car will target the 911 Turbo as its primary competitor. The new GT-R will feature a VQ32DETT Twin-Turbo V6 engine. Estimated output will be over 480ps and over 420 lb/ft of torque .
In addition, it will also feature the improve active AWD system. The engine will be developed by a joint venture of Nissan and Cosworth. The new turbo system will feature a electronic Anti-Lag-system. Which means the turbine will be driven by an eclectic-powered motor when the throttle is lifted. The new chassis will be a brand new one (code: FR-L), which is composed of steel and Aluminum alloy. Suspension will be taken from the current Skyline (G35) with certain improvements made.
Estimated to be in the market in spring 2005, with a price tag of over $80K.
GT-R Engine: VQ32DETT V6 Twin-Turbo, featuring collaboration with Cosworth Technology for ;
. Direct in-cylinder petrol injection technology
. Variable valve train technology
. Displacement on demand technology
. Aluminum cast engine block
Garrett are said to have helped design the turbine anti-lag system using electronic assistance
. Turbine anti-lag system
Direct injection of fuel at high pressure into each cylinder gives the maximum control of engine performance with the elimination of bulky intake manifolds and their assorted fixtures. These systems require precise sensors and control by an electronic computer which in turn leads to large improvements in engine performance.
The new engine's expected to use Cosworth designs for high-pressure direct injection system, variable valve train technology and could even feature the revolutionary ‘displacement on demand’ to meet strict emissions regulations.
Aluminum castings for the engine will be produced at the Cosworth foundry (in Worcester), to be shipped out to the facility.
Customers use Cosworth Technology’s foundry service because it owns a process that promises a very high level of dimensional accuracy. The use of Zircon sand brings with it linear and low thermal expansion properties superior to those of conventional Silica. It also has the benefit of a similar bulk density to that of aluminium, limiting core buoyancy problems. "We can therefore eliminate the need for core supports, but it also means that we can use less glue in our sand packs, reducing the potential for gas-porosity," explains Struthers.
Cores aside, the real key to the quality of the castings is the delivery of the molten material. Oxide nucleaic porosity is endemic to gravity casting and not uncommon in other low pressure techniques. The Cosworth process, (which Cosworth Technology licenses to other manufacturers) employs a melting methodology (the primary component of which are enormous, constant volumes of molten metal undergoing long residency in the vat) that ensures aluminum is drawn from a very clean zone in the middle of the melt.
While not cheap, the process is considered the most cost-effective method to create the superior product required by some vehicle programmers. "A lot of the applications that we get involved with are on the edge of what the material can give, but using this process we can give the designers what they have designed," concludes Struthers.
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ww.drive.com.au February 2003
'Godzilla' set to roar again
By Cameron McGavin
The Age
Thursday February 6 2003
Nissan's revival gathers more speed, reports Cameron McGavin.
NISSAN will go head to head in a power war with the world's top sports-car manufacturers when its new GT-R sports coupe makes its debut this year -- and it could be heading to Australia.
Speaking at the Australian launch of the 350Z sports car this week, Nissan chief product specialist John Yukawa said the upcoming GT-R would break through the unofficial 206kW power limit, which Japanese manufacturers have adhered to for decades to appease their government.
And it won't be by a nose, either. Yukawa's benchmark for the new GT-R is Porsche's 911 Turbo, which pumps out 309kW and is regarded by many as the best sports car in the world. Expect to see a power figure of about 300kW when the GT-R is revealed at the Tokyo motor show this year.
"The GT-R will exceed 206kW (the Japanese limit)," said Yukawa. "The Porsche 911 Turbo has about 400hp -- we're aiming for that. Porsche is my ambition."
Japanese car makers have long been suspected of exceeding the self-imposed power limit and then simply quoting 206kW (or 280hp) to keep officials happy. Now that the decision has been made to abandon the agreement, Japanese performance-car makers can get serious about challenging their European counterparts.
The new GT-R is expected to be powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 engine.
The rest of the GT-R package is a secret, though there have been clues. The styling is likely to show influences from the rakish GT-R concept car shown at the 2001 Tokyo motor show. Meanwhile, four-wheel-drive -- a signature of the model -- is a certainty.
Price is another unknown, although suggestions are that it will not be cheap, stretching beyond $150,000.
Previous GT-Rs have been built purely for the Japanese market, although 100 of the original -- and, some would say, the best -- R32 model were sold through Nissan dealerships between 1991 and 1993.
The new car, however, is designed with foreign markets in mind as Nissan continues its much-publicized revival under the guidance of leader Carlos Ghosn.
Leon Daphne, managing director and chief executive of Nissan Australia, said the new GT-R was on his wish list, though he stressed that any decision would come from Japan.
"When it's available in right-hand-drive, we'd like to take it," he said. "But it would be in very limited numbers."
The GT-R name has a glorious history in Australia, despite no presence in almost a decade.
The legendary R32 GT-R earned the nickname "Godzilla" for its performances in Australian touring car racing; it was ultimately ruled out of the competition through fear of upsetting car makers Ford and Holden.
Road-going models, many of which have been privately imported over the years, won similar favor for their explosive performance and excellent handling.
Sitting below the GT-R in Nissan's planned three-tiered sports-car line-up is the 350Z, which went on sale this week for less than $60,000.
Ironically, the arrival of Nissan's new Z-car comes just as its sweet-driving 200SX sports coupe sibling bows out of the Australian market because of problems meeting future emission regulations.
But fans of affordable sports cars need not fret, because a replacement is already under development.
Nissan's John Yukawa confirmed that a new 200SX was on the way and that it would stay true to the philosophy of its predecessor. Don't be surprised, then, if the 200SX replacement is another compact, rear-drive, turbocharged coupe.
"The 200SX is an entry car for the young guy, the Z-car is a car for the macho guy and the GT-R is a car for the enthusiast," said Yukawa. "Nissan is always seeking to provide fun-to-drive cars for the customers, especially for enthusiasts. This is the Nissan way."
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http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/ae_news_story.php?id=32040 – 12/2002
It's set to be Japan's fastest and most advanced supercar - but look under the skin and it's Britain's brains which will power Nissan's new GT-R!
most advanced car in the world. But it's not only Nissan engineers who can claim the credit - our sources say British legend Cosworth has been called in to help tweak the engine, while Lotus is involved in fine-tuning the suspension.
The 'International Specification' GT-R, which will be sold throughout the world for the first time, is set to get a version of the 3.5-litre V6 engine used in the 350Z coupé, but will have electrically assisted twin turbochargers to boost power without sapping too much energy. Cosworth's expertise will be used to make sure the V6's block, head, pistons and crank are all strong enough.
Nissan knows it has to do something really special with the next GT-R, partly because the 350Z performs so well, but also as it's the first globally oriented version of the car, and expectations are high among the 'Playstation generation' of buyers who are familiar with the model from video games consoles.
The company has asked for around 400bhp and 490Nm of torque, but more realistic figures given emissions regulations are 350bhp and 450Nm. To reach production, the car must meet strict Euro4 exhaust regulations. The V6 will be mated to a six-speed Getrag gearbox, with a CVT due a year after launch in early 2005. The auto is undergoing final development, but apparent slippage trouble due to the excessive power has been plaguing prototypes. Insiders have confirmed the GT-R will incorporate an updated version of Nissan's Atessa 4WD system with an active limited slip differential. This new arrangement means torque is distributed between the front and rear wheels not only in response to traction loss, but also as a result of changes in the engine's output.
The FM platform used in the new range of Skyline and Infiniti G35 coupés in Japan and the US is basically good enough, but needs some fine-tuning to handle the extra power - and that's where Lotus comes in. A new hydraulic active suspension system, co-developed with Lotus, will feature. The Norfolk firm's expertise in this area will ensure the car handles like no other GT-R before, and can satisfy the soft-riding expectations of American buyers with the traction and high-speed handling required by the British and German markets.
Its brakes promise to be special, too, with larger Brembo discs controlled by a newly revised brake-by-wire unit which promises to give the sporty feel and feedback enthusiastic drivers demand.
But while the dynamics are groundbreaking, many fans will be disappointed by the looks. Although the car is clearly linked to the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show concept, some of the more aggressive touches have been watered down in favour of a more mainstream appearance. The final production version will debut at next October's Tokyo event
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The Concept
Nissan Press Release - Tokyo Motor Show 2001
Nissan will continue building the GT-R in the 21st Century, providing the ultimate driving pleasure to even more people worldwide. In its next generation Nissan is looking to introducing the GT-R in other markets worldwide.
In pursuit of ultimate driving pleasure
Successive generations of the GT-R have consistently pursued the ultimate in driving pleasure. Over the years, the GT-R has continued to be a supreme-performance road-going car that delivers superb driving pleasure by responding faithfully to the driver's demands. Just sitting in the driver's seat of the GT-R produces a feeling of excitement that envelops the entire body.
Achieving the ultimate in driving pleasure means that the car must perform exactly as the driver expects. Meeting this expectation requires a faithful response to the driving actions executed by the driver, and the car must convey accurate information to the driver. In other words, the driver has to be able to judge the vehicle's state accurately and instantaneously. Then, through the car's consistently response to the accelerator pedal, steering wheel and brake pedal, the driver enjoys the pleasure of controlling the car at will. There is feeling of solid trust and oneness that forms between the driver and the car in this process, confidently bringing out both the driver's skill and the car's maximum potential.
Consistently providing the best specifications available in every era
If drivers are to enjoy the ultimate in driving pleasure, the car's potential must be raised to the utmost limits. Successive generations of the GT-R have truly incorporated superior specifications even among vehicles in this segment. With its unrivaled power, the engine has delivered outstanding acceleration and top speed combined with a driving sensation. A superior braking system has provided powerful braking performance, and an outstanding suspension has enabled the GT-R to corner with remarkable quickness.
The GT-R has been the showcase for the highest levels of acceleration, cornering and stopping capabilities. The delicate balance between the powerful engine and responsive suspension has been pushed as each system surpassed last generation technology.
As a result of that never-ending process, the GT-R has continued to embody the most advanced technologies available in every era.
Expanding the tradition globally in the 21st-Century
Successive generations of the GT-R have already established an unshakable position in Japan as a result of incorporating the highest levels of technology available in pursuit of ultimate driving pleasure. That superior performance transcended the oceans to make the GT-R the focus of envious looks the world over. Nissan is developing a new generation of GT-R for the 21st Century with the aim of placing it in the spotlight of the global stage, beyond the borders of the Japanese market.
The GT-R displayed at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show is a concept vehicle which delivers "Ultimate Driving Pleasure" with the best in world-class
The following is what I have so far:
SkylineAustralia:
a) Nissan are well aware of the popularity of the GT-R outside of Japan, and are looking to make the next GT-R well and truly stand out more than previous incarnations. The "World Market GT-R" as it were... just by translating the article from Holiday Auto, you can feel that the next GT-R has truly broken away from the "old" R-series GT-Rs... (I can hear the crying and monitor bashing from here!)
b) Porsche 911 Turbo is going down... in fact, it seems Nissan are already claiming victory (???)... such is their confidence after the Nurburgring tests. Apparently, the first test failed because some driveline hardware was faulty, but the subsequent 2 tests were successful enough for Nissan to make final decisions on the driveline: 3.2L V6 Twin electric-assisted Turbo, FR-L platform (Primary Front engine/Rear wheel drive transaxle, motor-assisted front wheel drive or "e-4WD") with Getrag 7-speed sequential gearbox.
After much deliberation about 3.0, 3.5 and even 4.1L capacities for the VQ engine, they've decided on 3.2. The thing to bear in mind here is the Porsche 911 Turbo... it seems Nissan may want to defeat Porsche with less capacity...
Expected final power output: 480ps @ 7,200rpm, 58.0kg/m @ 5,200rpm.
c) Other specs of note are the "semi-wet sump" (as opposed to the dry sump originally quoted) and the aluminum space frame, steel cabin and bulk usage of carbon throughout.
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Rezz October 2004 Issue Analysis
Yes, it's a left-hand drive "Infinity"... LHD in Germany remember!
A German photographer snapped these pics recently, remarking on how quickly the car was traveling around that part of the 'ring. A professional driver from Japan has been flown to Germany to carry out "overall" testing with emphasis on aerodynamics appraisal.
The test at Nurburgring wasn't about parts testing, but overall performance and handling, suggesting that the GT-R has entered the middle phase of development where engineers concentrate on the entire package rather than just separate parts. The front bumper seen in the pic above isn't the final design!!! It's a just a quick bumper that’s been made so the car has some kind decent airflow characteristics without any attention to styling.
The rear wing on the other hand does give a big hint as to what the final one will look like. The reporter from Best Car was surprised that the rear wing is just your generic late model FD3S RX-7 type wing with beefed up end plates. The wide fenders will make the GT-R 100mm wider than the current V35 Skyline Coupe, making it the same width as the current Porsche turbo. Some effort has been put forward to make the fenders blend in as a component of the complete aerodynamics package, one that will become one of the strongest merits of the car.
Best Car couldn't report on much about the engine this time around, but were quick to point out that a "number" of different engine capacities are being tested, 3.2, 3.3, 3.5 and possibly a 4.0 (a la the V36 VQ41DE) but still retaining the electric spool-up twin turbo configuration. Also note the two air opening under each headlight on the pics above, they apparently feed each turbo, with a highly efficient intercooler design making use of the third opening. Power is still being set at about 460ps.
Just a final note, the engine is the ultimate "saving grace" for this V-series GT-R, and as far as Best Car can see, Nissan WILL NOT disappoint in this area... so guys, sit back, don't write off the next GT-R just yet (although I almost did!)
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Edmunds
What Edmunds.com Says: It may end up wearing an Infiniti badge, but this next generation Skyline should have all the attitude of its Nissan cousins.
What We Know: After years of rumors and intense lobbying by Nissan enthusiasts in the U.S., Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn announced that his company plans to release a fully redesigned version of the legendary Skyline GT-R by 2007. The new version will take its cues from the GT-R concept car that has made the rounds at various auto shows over the past several years, and unlike its predecessor the GT-R will make its way to the U.S. With the 350Z already occupying a steady spot in Nissan's lineup, look for the GT-R to come Stateside wearing an Infiniti badge. A prototype caught testing on Germany's grueling Nurburgring test track made the rounds wearing the shell of a current G35, but obvious signs of serious modifications indicate it was no ordinary Infiniti. The car is expected to debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in the fall of 2007 and go on sale later that year.
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Car & Driver – October 2004
The illustration below depicts the upcoming Nissan Skyline GT-R. The GT-R version of the Skyline has always been a special high-performance offering in Nissan's lineup, and this one will continue that tradition. The GT-R probably has the record for the number of car-mag stories about a vehicle that has never been available in the U.S., and it remains high on our wish list.
Built on a new platform that is not shared with the standard-model Skyline, or Infiniti G35 coupe, as it's known stateside, it will likely make the GT-R far more expensive than run-of-the-mill G35 coupes.
There are conflicting reports out of Japan regarding the powerplant. One camp believes the GT-R will be powered by a Cosworth-developed twin-turbo version of the current 3.5-liter V-6, offering at least 450 horsepower. Others believe a new twin-turbo 3.2-liter V-6 will get the call.
To make sure the GT-R has supercar handling, chassis engineers from Lotus were selected to develop its steering, suspension, and drivetrain. Could this special Skyline so long denied to U.S. enthusiasts finally come to the States? "G35 GT-R" has a certain ring to it, but it's up to Nissan or Infiniti's product planners to decide whether it will come to our shores.
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Wombat – July 2004
GTR 2007
Ever since the Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R launched in 1998, few cars have been able to match it for sheer enjoyment behind the wheel.
While Skyline fans in Japan and the US have been able to bide their time with the new Skyline and Infiniti G35 sports sedan respectively, everyone else has had to make do with the (admittedly brilliant) 350Z.
And while the 350Z and G35 Skyline are by no means placid, the sheer muscle of the GT-R has left a large void in Nissan's line-up, and many are still waiting patiently for the new model.
As much as we wish we could say "The wait is now over," we can't.
But we do know that Nissan has just registered the name 'Infiniti GT-R' in Australia, with side notes along the lines of "super-coupe due 2007".
While Australia, like Japan, has never had the American-style twin-naming conventions of Nissan and Infiniti, this looks set to change over the next few years, and the next Tokyo Motor Show will shed some light on why the hallowed GT-R nameplate has been shelved for so long.
At present there is very little concrete evidence regarding the next generation Skyline/Infiniti GT-R.
An 8-speed automatic gearbox is one of the rumored items to be making its debut, as are magnetic valves, but it's been so long between drinks for the GT-R that there are sure to be more surprises in store.
One of which will be the engine. The heart and soul of the latest model GT-R, the 1998 R34, was its RB26DETT inline, 2.6-litre 6-cylinder engine.
Though the manufacturer quoted the engine as outputting 280bhp or 208kW of power @ 6800rpm, that figure was very conservative, and the twin-turbo nature of the engine ensured copious amounts of torque - 392Nm @ 4400rpm to be precise.
So what's the word on the new Godzilla engine? Some insiders have changed their tune of a 6-cylinder turbo mill to a nat atmo V8, which probably wouldn't go down well with the traditionalists.
What about a more traditional inline six? Unlikely, as Nissan would have to go to the drawing board for that one.
At present the most likely candidate for the new GT-R will be the same engine used in the 350Z and other Nissan applications, the VQ35DE 3.5-litre quad-cam V6.
Feann Torr, one of our road testers, reviewed the 350Z back in August of 2003, and he was mightily impressed with its smooth yet torquey nature.
He said: "The final word on Nissan's V6 engine? Brilliant. And get this: There is even talk that Nissan will take this 3.5-litre engine and bolt on a pair of turbochargers for use in new 350kW+ R35 GT-R, set to hit the streets in 2005. Drool..."
Well, his prediction that the next generation GT-R will arrive in 2005 may be somewhat premature, but the twin turbo 3.5-litre V6 power train is close to the mark, possibly codenamed the VQ35DETT.
350 kilowatts is one number, but many of Nissans big wigs have been overheard in the past talking about the new car rivaling some of Porsche's. So can we expect even more power - 500bhp perhaps?
Even if this 350kW twin-turbo V6 engine did see the light of day in the 2007 GT-R, it would create one very quick thoroughbred car, especially is it tips the scales at under 1500kg (the R34 weighed 1666kg).
But on the topic of thoroughbreds, Nissan and its parent company Renault want to sell the new GT-R worldwide, so don't be surprised if some compromises are made to suit a myriad of regional design rules.
The new GT-R is likely to be AWD, like its predecessor, but whether a new version of the ATTESA system will be included is not yet known.
The ATTESA system in previous GT-R's used a 16-bit microprocessor to monitor the car's movements at something like 100 times per second, with sensors recording wheel rotation plus lateral and longitudinal acceleration. When one wheel slipped, it simply diverted more torque to the wheels with grip.
An upgraded version, perhaps with a 32-bit processor, of the ATTESA system could be implemented in the 2007 GT-R, though the R34's all-wheel-steering Super HICAS (the rear-wheels could be turned by 1°) system is less likely to make it into the 21st century GT-R.
Another big issue for many hardcore GT-R fans will be the styling, and what of the trademark circular tail lights that adorn the rear? In 2001 Nissan unveiled what it called the GT-R Concept, which looked to be modeled on a 350Z chassis - but even it came with the trademark circular tail lights.
And it was supposed to reach production in 2004. So much for that.
But notice how it was called the 'GT-R Concept', and not the 'Skyline' or 'Infiniti' GT-R Concept? After Nissan Australia registered the name Infiniti GT-R recently, it now makes sense, as the vehicle is almost guaranteed to be called the Skyline GT-R in the Japan and the Infiniti GT-R everywhere else in the world. And it's understandable, as even today the R32, R33 and R34 models are treated like aluminum alloy masterpieces.
But while the GT-R concept that appeared in 2001 is a good indication of how the new GT-R may look, some rumors suggest that the car will be more akin the 2004 model Nissan Skyline/Infiniti G35 sports coupe.
With the revelation of the GT-R Concept at the Tokyo Motor Show 2001, Nissan has finally ended these discussions. The radical GT-R Concept gives an impression of what the replacement of the Skyline GT-R (due 2004) might look like.
So, with the new skerrick of information that promises to end the speculation of when the legendary Nissan GT-R will makes its debut, all we have to do now is play the waiting game.
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Speed Magazine – July 2004
"NEW GT-R NOW R36"
SOURCES close to Nissan have revealed some of the reasons why the R35 has been held over until 2007. Apparently, Nissan didn't want to introduce their halo model towards the end of the V35 model lifespan.
With the scheduled release of the new V36 Skyline, Ghosn and Co realized that it would be best to develop the new GT-R in sync with the V36 platform and skyline, another rumored factor in the delay was that engineers weren't happy that it was a big enough step up from the last R34 godzilla and are working on adding spice to the R36 to increase the gap between the last of the RB-powered GT-Rs and the new V6 versions.
The JDM "R" will score a twin-turbo-charged VQ-series vee-six, although precious specific details are non-existent. However, our "mole" reckons there's a good chance of seeing a Japanese-spec R36 GT-R Down Under, but we shouldn't hold our collective breath for the less potent V36 Skyline models.
Rumours are firming up that the American Infiniti-badged versions will be pushed by a variant of the VK-series V8, of either 5.4-litre or 5.6-litre capacity. This stems from emission regulations and concerns over Yanks' sometimes less-than-stellar reputation for maintenance and servicing.
One area that has been approved is the model designations: the official name of the new Godzilla will be Nissan R36 GT-R (for Japan) and Infiniti R36 GT-R for Yankland.
Thanks to some misconstrued statements from global Nissan press, internet keyboard warriors had predicted the new model would abandon the R-prefix for a v V-designation, due largely to the current Skyline-range being tagged the V35 and the new motor family being branded VQ (instead of RB).
The R name got the nod because it ties the new car back to Godzilla's legacy and will hold it above more pedestrian Skylines.
On top of this information come news that Nissan are planning to release a "mini-GT-R" V36 Skyline. Whispered to be an entry-level sport-oriented coupe, with four-wheel drive.
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Autoweek – May 2004
Nissan's boxy Cube, next-gen Skyline GT-R expected to come to U.S.
TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co. is expected to sell the next generation of its tiny Cube and the high-performance Skyline GT-R sports car in the United States.
The Cube could become Nissan's youth-targeted Toyota Scion-fighter, and the Skyline GT-R would extend the Infiniti range.
"The next Cube and the next Skyline GT-R will be sold globally," says Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn.
He wouldn't say where the cars would be sold, but analysts expect them to be in U.S. showrooms. Both cars are being engineered for North America.
"There are no global markets without America," says Tatsuo Yoshida of Deutsche Securities Ltd. in Tokyo.
The boxy 1.4-liter Cube will be redesigned in 2006.
Nissan stopped production of the 280-hp, 2.6 liter Skyline GT-R in 2002, but a new version is planned in 2007.
The Cube, which costs the equivalent of $10,890 in Japan, could counter the Scion brand. Toyota sold 7,675 units of the similarly shaped Scion xB in the United States during the first quarter of this year. The xB starts at $13,680, including destination.
The new tC sports coupe will be added to the Scion lineup in June. Toyota forecasts Scion sales to total 100,000 in the United States next year. The Scion brand now consists of the boxy xB and wedge-shaped xA hatchback.
Next year's redesigned Nissan Sentra will be larger than the current model, says Kunihiko Shiohara, analyst at Goldman Sachs (Japan) Ltd. He says the Cube could be needed for positioning below the Sentra.
Shiohara and other analysts expect Nissan to build the Cube at its Aguascalientes, Mexico, plant.
Analysts say the Skyline GT-R would help boost Infiniti's image. The car "could be the top brand among Infiniti sports cars," says Shotaro Noguchi of Mitsubishi Securities.
The new Cube and Skyline GT-R are among 28 new and redesigned models Nissan says it will introduce in the next three years.
The plan calls for annual global sales of 4.2 million units in the fiscal year ending in March 2008. Nissan expects to sell 3.38 million vehicles in the fiscal year which began in April.
Of the extra 820,000 sales, the Japanese automaker expects 250,000 to come from North America, 150,000 from Japan, 70,000 from Europe and 350,000 from other markets.
Nissan has ample cash to develop the models. It posted a record operating profit of $7.29 billion on a consolidated basis in the fiscal year that ended March 31.
The 11.9 percent jump from the previous year was driven by a 10.4 percent increase in global unit sales to 3.05 million, the first time Nissan sales have topped 3 million in 13 years.
That pushed Nissan's operating margin up by 0.3 percentage points to 11.1 percent. Net income also rose 1.7 percent to $4.45 billion on revenues of $65.60 billion, up 8.8 percent over the previous year.
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Autoweek – Mar. 2004
911 specs, Nissan price
We’ve already told you Nissan chief Carlos Ghosn has promised the return of the Skyline GT-R at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, followed by worldwide sales—United States included (AW, Nov. 3, 2003). Ghosn has said development time for a globally competitive car explains why the car won’t appear until then, but now he has narrowed the field of sports cars to a key benchmark for the next GT-R: Porsche’s 911. “It has really good performance” while having an affordable price tag, says Ghosn.
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Autoweek – Oct 2003
Nissan Skyline GT-R coming to U.S., but not until ’07
By MARK VAUGHN
NISSAN CHIEF CARLOS Ghosn confirms the Skyline GT-R will debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007, with customer sales starting soon after that. The car will make “around 400 hp” and offer “top-level driving performance.”
Video game fans on these shores who have long enjoyed the high-speed thrills of the GT-R will have a chance to drive it (so long as they can pony up the cash). Ghosn says the car will be sold here.
Sure, but why the long wait? Well, it’s not as bad as the first proposal, which was for a 2008 or 2009 GT-R launch. And, if you haven’t noticed, Nissan has been working on a lot of other products lately—and doing a pretty good job with them, too—so there weren’t spare engineers to toil away on a fairly low-volume supercar. At one point, the company was looking for a partner to help share development of the GT-R, but could not find one with whom it was happy.
Ghosn says the GT-R will offer “top performance worldwide, not just compared to our cars.
“If you look at a car and think it’s a tiger, you’re not going to be happy if you get in and drive it and it’s a cat,” Ghosn explains.
Ghosn says the price will be relatively reasonable: “You won’t have the feeling you’re being ripped off.”
That’s still kind of vague, but it sounds like the GT-R will not be another half-million-dollar Enzo/SLR/Carrera GT supercar, at least not in the finance department.
The exterior will probably not look like the concept car shown at Tokyo two years ago, either, though the decision on which of many design proposals submitted has not been made.
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Nissan Press Global - October 2003
#37 Tokyo Motor Show Press Briefing
“Another Nissan legend will be shown here in 2007 – the GT-R. Development of the new GT-R is on schedule, and it is being engineered to claim its place among the world’s elite sports cars. More details will come closer to its launch.”
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Dow Jones Business News
Nissan Motor To Launch New GTR Sports Model Globally 2007
Wednesday October 22, 12:31 am ET
TOKYO -(Dow Jones)- Nissan Motor Co. will market from 2007 a new model of its flagship sports auto, the "GTR," as "a global car," president Carlos Ghosn said Wednesday at a round-table meeting with the media.
It will be the first time for Nissan to market the model globally. Ghosn said the company will launch the model in markets including the U.S., Europe and Japan.
The new GTR is expected to be the successor to the Skyline GTR model, which was launched in January 1998 and available only in Japan. Nissan stopped marketing that model in August 2002.
Ghosn declined to provide any sales targets for the new model
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Rezz - 09/26/03 10:29 AM
Power: 480ps (352kw!) @ 7200rpm
Torque: 58kg/m @ 4800rpm
The GT-R concept has been finalized. The new car will target the 911 Turbo as its primary competitor. The new GT-R will feature a VQ32DETT Twin-Turbo V6 engine. Estimated output will be over 480ps and over 420 lb/ft of torque .
In addition, it will also feature the improve active AWD system. The engine will be developed by a joint venture of Nissan and Cosworth. The new turbo system will feature a electronic Anti-Lag-system. Which means the turbine will be driven by an eclectic-powered motor when the throttle is lifted. The new chassis will be a brand new one (code: FR-L), which is composed of steel and Aluminum alloy. Suspension will be taken from the current Skyline (G35) with certain improvements made.
Estimated to be in the market in spring 2005, with a price tag of over $80K.
GT-R Engine: VQ32DETT V6 Twin-Turbo, featuring collaboration with Cosworth Technology for ;
. Direct in-cylinder petrol injection technology
. Variable valve train technology
. Displacement on demand technology
. Aluminum cast engine block
Garrett are said to have helped design the turbine anti-lag system using electronic assistance
. Turbine anti-lag system
Direct injection of fuel at high pressure into each cylinder gives the maximum control of engine performance with the elimination of bulky intake manifolds and their assorted fixtures. These systems require precise sensors and control by an electronic computer which in turn leads to large improvements in engine performance.
The new engine's expected to use Cosworth designs for high-pressure direct injection system, variable valve train technology and could even feature the revolutionary ‘displacement on demand’ to meet strict emissions regulations.
Aluminum castings for the engine will be produced at the Cosworth foundry (in Worcester), to be shipped out to the facility.
Customers use Cosworth Technology’s foundry service because it owns a process that promises a very high level of dimensional accuracy. The use of Zircon sand brings with it linear and low thermal expansion properties superior to those of conventional Silica. It also has the benefit of a similar bulk density to that of aluminium, limiting core buoyancy problems. "We can therefore eliminate the need for core supports, but it also means that we can use less glue in our sand packs, reducing the potential for gas-porosity," explains Struthers.
Cores aside, the real key to the quality of the castings is the delivery of the molten material. Oxide nucleaic porosity is endemic to gravity casting and not uncommon in other low pressure techniques. The Cosworth process, (which Cosworth Technology licenses to other manufacturers) employs a melting methodology (the primary component of which are enormous, constant volumes of molten metal undergoing long residency in the vat) that ensures aluminum is drawn from a very clean zone in the middle of the melt.
While not cheap, the process is considered the most cost-effective method to create the superior product required by some vehicle programmers. "A lot of the applications that we get involved with are on the edge of what the material can give, but using this process we can give the designers what they have designed," concludes Struthers.
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ww.drive.com.au February 2003
'Godzilla' set to roar again
By Cameron McGavin
The Age
Thursday February 6 2003
Nissan's revival gathers more speed, reports Cameron McGavin.
NISSAN will go head to head in a power war with the world's top sports-car manufacturers when its new GT-R sports coupe makes its debut this year -- and it could be heading to Australia.
Speaking at the Australian launch of the 350Z sports car this week, Nissan chief product specialist John Yukawa said the upcoming GT-R would break through the unofficial 206kW power limit, which Japanese manufacturers have adhered to for decades to appease their government.
And it won't be by a nose, either. Yukawa's benchmark for the new GT-R is Porsche's 911 Turbo, which pumps out 309kW and is regarded by many as the best sports car in the world. Expect to see a power figure of about 300kW when the GT-R is revealed at the Tokyo motor show this year.
"The GT-R will exceed 206kW (the Japanese limit)," said Yukawa. "The Porsche 911 Turbo has about 400hp -- we're aiming for that. Porsche is my ambition."
Japanese car makers have long been suspected of exceeding the self-imposed power limit and then simply quoting 206kW (or 280hp) to keep officials happy. Now that the decision has been made to abandon the agreement, Japanese performance-car makers can get serious about challenging their European counterparts.
The new GT-R is expected to be powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 engine.
The rest of the GT-R package is a secret, though there have been clues. The styling is likely to show influences from the rakish GT-R concept car shown at the 2001 Tokyo motor show. Meanwhile, four-wheel-drive -- a signature of the model -- is a certainty.
Price is another unknown, although suggestions are that it will not be cheap, stretching beyond $150,000.
Previous GT-Rs have been built purely for the Japanese market, although 100 of the original -- and, some would say, the best -- R32 model were sold through Nissan dealerships between 1991 and 1993.
The new car, however, is designed with foreign markets in mind as Nissan continues its much-publicized revival under the guidance of leader Carlos Ghosn.
Leon Daphne, managing director and chief executive of Nissan Australia, said the new GT-R was on his wish list, though he stressed that any decision would come from Japan.
"When it's available in right-hand-drive, we'd like to take it," he said. "But it would be in very limited numbers."
The GT-R name has a glorious history in Australia, despite no presence in almost a decade.
The legendary R32 GT-R earned the nickname "Godzilla" for its performances in Australian touring car racing; it was ultimately ruled out of the competition through fear of upsetting car makers Ford and Holden.
Road-going models, many of which have been privately imported over the years, won similar favor for their explosive performance and excellent handling.
Sitting below the GT-R in Nissan's planned three-tiered sports-car line-up is the 350Z, which went on sale this week for less than $60,000.
Ironically, the arrival of Nissan's new Z-car comes just as its sweet-driving 200SX sports coupe sibling bows out of the Australian market because of problems meeting future emission regulations.
But fans of affordable sports cars need not fret, because a replacement is already under development.
Nissan's John Yukawa confirmed that a new 200SX was on the way and that it would stay true to the philosophy of its predecessor. Don't be surprised, then, if the 200SX replacement is another compact, rear-drive, turbocharged coupe.
"The 200SX is an entry car for the young guy, the Z-car is a car for the macho guy and the GT-R is a car for the enthusiast," said Yukawa. "Nissan is always seeking to provide fun-to-drive cars for the customers, especially for enthusiasts. This is the Nissan way."
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http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/ae_news_story.php?id=32040 – 12/2002
It's set to be Japan's fastest and most advanced supercar - but look under the skin and it's Britain's brains which will power Nissan's new GT-R!
most advanced car in the world. But it's not only Nissan engineers who can claim the credit - our sources say British legend Cosworth has been called in to help tweak the engine, while Lotus is involved in fine-tuning the suspension.
The 'International Specification' GT-R, which will be sold throughout the world for the first time, is set to get a version of the 3.5-litre V6 engine used in the 350Z coupé, but will have electrically assisted twin turbochargers to boost power without sapping too much energy. Cosworth's expertise will be used to make sure the V6's block, head, pistons and crank are all strong enough.
Nissan knows it has to do something really special with the next GT-R, partly because the 350Z performs so well, but also as it's the first globally oriented version of the car, and expectations are high among the 'Playstation generation' of buyers who are familiar with the model from video games consoles.
The company has asked for around 400bhp and 490Nm of torque, but more realistic figures given emissions regulations are 350bhp and 450Nm. To reach production, the car must meet strict Euro4 exhaust regulations. The V6 will be mated to a six-speed Getrag gearbox, with a CVT due a year after launch in early 2005. The auto is undergoing final development, but apparent slippage trouble due to the excessive power has been plaguing prototypes. Insiders have confirmed the GT-R will incorporate an updated version of Nissan's Atessa 4WD system with an active limited slip differential. This new arrangement means torque is distributed between the front and rear wheels not only in response to traction loss, but also as a result of changes in the engine's output.
The FM platform used in the new range of Skyline and Infiniti G35 coupés in Japan and the US is basically good enough, but needs some fine-tuning to handle the extra power - and that's where Lotus comes in. A new hydraulic active suspension system, co-developed with Lotus, will feature. The Norfolk firm's expertise in this area will ensure the car handles like no other GT-R before, and can satisfy the soft-riding expectations of American buyers with the traction and high-speed handling required by the British and German markets.
Its brakes promise to be special, too, with larger Brembo discs controlled by a newly revised brake-by-wire unit which promises to give the sporty feel and feedback enthusiastic drivers demand.
But while the dynamics are groundbreaking, many fans will be disappointed by the looks. Although the car is clearly linked to the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show concept, some of the more aggressive touches have been watered down in favour of a more mainstream appearance. The final production version will debut at next October's Tokyo event
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The Concept
Nissan Press Release - Tokyo Motor Show 2001
Nissan will continue building the GT-R in the 21st Century, providing the ultimate driving pleasure to even more people worldwide. In its next generation Nissan is looking to introducing the GT-R in other markets worldwide.
In pursuit of ultimate driving pleasure
Successive generations of the GT-R have consistently pursued the ultimate in driving pleasure. Over the years, the GT-R has continued to be a supreme-performance road-going car that delivers superb driving pleasure by responding faithfully to the driver's demands. Just sitting in the driver's seat of the GT-R produces a feeling of excitement that envelops the entire body.
Achieving the ultimate in driving pleasure means that the car must perform exactly as the driver expects. Meeting this expectation requires a faithful response to the driving actions executed by the driver, and the car must convey accurate information to the driver. In other words, the driver has to be able to judge the vehicle's state accurately and instantaneously. Then, through the car's consistently response to the accelerator pedal, steering wheel and brake pedal, the driver enjoys the pleasure of controlling the car at will. There is feeling of solid trust and oneness that forms between the driver and the car in this process, confidently bringing out both the driver's skill and the car's maximum potential.
Consistently providing the best specifications available in every era
If drivers are to enjoy the ultimate in driving pleasure, the car's potential must be raised to the utmost limits. Successive generations of the GT-R have truly incorporated superior specifications even among vehicles in this segment. With its unrivaled power, the engine has delivered outstanding acceleration and top speed combined with a driving sensation. A superior braking system has provided powerful braking performance, and an outstanding suspension has enabled the GT-R to corner with remarkable quickness.
The GT-R has been the showcase for the highest levels of acceleration, cornering and stopping capabilities. The delicate balance between the powerful engine and responsive suspension has been pushed as each system surpassed last generation technology.
As a result of that never-ending process, the GT-R has continued to embody the most advanced technologies available in every era.
Expanding the tradition globally in the 21st-Century
Successive generations of the GT-R have already established an unshakable position in Japan as a result of incorporating the highest levels of technology available in pursuit of ultimate driving pleasure. That superior performance transcended the oceans to make the GT-R the focus of envious looks the world over. Nissan is developing a new generation of GT-R for the 21st Century with the aim of placing it in the spotlight of the global stage, beyond the borders of the Japanese market.
The GT-R displayed at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show is a concept vehicle which delivers "Ultimate Driving Pleasure" with the best in world-class
Last edited by spt; 01-13-2005 at 06:06 PM.
01-06-2005 | 04:13 PM
#2
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 10
From Car And Driver:
Hinting on 500hp and nearly $85k (estimates of course)
"Unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon this week, the 500hp GT-R Z-tune is not only the most powerful GT-R ever, but at $170,000, it’s also the most expensive. Why did they make it? Simple. To show what's possible. And when we hinted at any relation to the next generation GT-R due in 2007, Nismo staffers started sucking through their teeth and looking skywards. One thing is for sure. The 2007 GT-R's sticker price will be around half that of the Z-tune but pump out nearly as much power"
http://www.caranddriver.com/article.asp?section_id=31&article_id=9092
Hinting on 500hp and nearly $85k (estimates of course)
"Unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon this week, the 500hp GT-R Z-tune is not only the most powerful GT-R ever, but at $170,000, it’s also the most expensive. Why did they make it? Simple. To show what's possible. And when we hinted at any relation to the next generation GT-R due in 2007, Nismo staffers started sucking through their teeth and looking skywards. One thing is for sure. The 2007 GT-R's sticker price will be around half that of the Z-tune but pump out nearly as much power"
http://www.caranddriver.com/article.asp?section_id=31&article_id=9092
Last edited by boomn29; 01-07-2005 at 10:54 AM.
01-07-2005 | 11:27 AM
#5
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 22
02-21-2005 | 02:02 PM
#6
Thread Starter
GTR Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 858
More Info Added:
Source: Rezz
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2005 GT-R Concept
After 3 solid years of speculation, CG concepts by Nissan design teams – not to mention the plethora of CG images produced by Nissan fans - we will get the final word from Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn regarding the Next GT-R. The 39th Tokyo Motor Show (Oct 19 – Nov 6, 2005) will be the venue where all the speculation and rumors stop when the 2005 GT-R Concept vehicle is uncovered.
Without a doubt the main feature at the 39th Tokyo Motor Show will be the Next GT-R. No other single vehicle has caused as much hype amongst the international Nissan fan base as this car. Nissan have been watching the international reaction to various rumors, spy photos, concept drawings and the like, and will take it upon themselves to officially state the Next GT-R’s design, new components and capabilities, aim of the car, and price. Nissan may even answer the question that’s confused a number of enthusiasts up until now: the chassis designation. Whether it’s UA-CPV35 GT-R, or due to the ’07 release date, UA-CPV36 GT-R, or another chassis code altogether, Nissan will need to explain why, if the GT-R is to drop it’s connection with the Skyline, would they need to incorporate the Skyline’s traditional four round tail lights.
Sources in Japan have already scooped the Next GT-R’s FR transaxle, twin motor-assisted turbos and ‘e-4WD’ – drive to the front wheels provided by electric motors powered by Lithium batteries. All these mechanisms are unique to the Next GT-R and will lead the way for other car manufacturers to make use of such technological advances in their own vehicle line-ups. One hotly contested feature of the Next GT-R is it’s rumored engine, the VQ32DETT. International speculation has sprouted all sorts of configurations: N/A and turbo V8’s, large capacity V6’s, even rebirth of the legendary RB26DETT. But no other engine configuration has been quoted more times in Japan than the 3.2 liter V6 twin turbo.
The rumored VQ32DETT engine has been developed in conjunction with Cosworth (UK) and the basic design of the V6 twin turbo – in 3.0 liter guise - has seen two full seasons already in the Japanese JGTC (Japan GT Championship) racing series, which VQ powered cars have won consecutively in the last two years. The rigors of JGTC racing and advances in turbo design should put to rest any doubts about a twin turbo V6 configuration not being able to withstand the treatment expected from a US market not familiar with a top level performance turbo offering from Nissan. The concern over how the US market would receive a medium capacity V6 turbo powered GT car from Nissan has brought forth all kinds of rumored engine configurations, none of which have had any mention within the Japanese media for at least two years. It seems practically all the rumors regarding engines other than the VQ32DETT have originated from the very market that is concerned about the reliability of a turbo V6 powered GT car from Nissan (or in the North American market, Infiniti) as opposed to the supposedly better reliability a larger capacity naturally aspirated engine of similar output could offer.
Much importance has been placed on the effective use of underbody aerodynamics, as well as keeping a clean, muscular shape devoid of any large spoilers which were such a signature of the superseded R34 Skyline GT-R. 20-inch alloy wheels and a mix of carbon fiber (bonnet, seat frames, drive shafts, rear diffusers) and aluminum (roof, door panels, rear tailgate) will also feature on a car that is every bit as exotic as it is technologically advanced. The disappointment felt by Japanese Nissan enthusiasts about the controversial tail lights of the V35 Skyline Sedan upon it’s release back in 2001 – no trademark circular lights or ‘hotplates’ – has seen Nissan make a complete about face… even releasing the V35 Skyline Sedan Series II with circular LED arrays to try and convince the Japanese domestic market that they haven’t forsaken the Skyline heritage. What this means is that despite the multitude of CG images gracing the internet and magazines all sporting slightly weak attempts at ‘hotplate’ tail light designs, the Next GT-R will definitely include the four round tail lights that have become the defining feature of the GT-R since the early 1970’s… even though Carlos Ghosn has hinted that the Next GT-R won’t be associated with the Skyline range anymore.
The motto of the Next GT-R that has been thrown around more than a few times amongst the Japanese media is ‘More Super-Sports than you can imagine’. You can be sure that Nissan won’t disappoint this time around, as so many Nissan enthusiasts in Japan have expressed their disapproval of the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show Concept GT-R. Look for more details to come to light as October approaches straight from Japan… so it certainly will be an exciting year for GT-R enthusiasts the world over. Expect to see the Next GT-R released in December 2007.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: r35GTR.com
The Next GTR will be explored heavily this upcoming 39th Tokyo Motor Show. Carlos Ghosn will hopefully put a stop to the rumors, and the Next GTR will be the main attraction in the show. In Japan, rumor's are revolving around the VQ32DETT, of which many say will be the choice of engine. Although the GTR will not experience association with the Skyline models, it will still retain round tail lights as evident from the V35 models.
Carlos Ghosn will need to clear up somethings about price, specs, and release dates. It is expected that the GTR come out in late Q4 2007. Nissan's most evident rumor is about the chassis code, whether they will introduce a new one or not. They will certainly need to clear that issue up. The engine is said to be a twin turbo-detuned version of the one found in the fairlady Z33 (350Z) and it is said to have close to 480ps~hp. In the U.S. many rumors surrounding conservative emissions have spurred, those of N/A V8's. Many japanese magazines have speculated on the car's specs.
Mainly it has revolved around the VQ, which might be the same one used in the JGTC since 2003, which coincedently replaced the RB6DETT in some R34 GTR race cars. Many people were discontent with what Nissan released in 2001, the GTR Concept, but it is said that the new GTR will not dissapoint. The test mule under the infiniti body was said to have been a cover up of the internal structure, the real body is still being under development. What is known, is that the body might reflect that of the 350's, not of the V35's. The Next GTR will set the tone for other car makers, the car having the most advanced technology, such as electrical assited twin turbos as well as 'e-4wd.'
Source: Rezz
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2005 GT-R Concept
After 3 solid years of speculation, CG concepts by Nissan design teams – not to mention the plethora of CG images produced by Nissan fans - we will get the final word from Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn regarding the Next GT-R. The 39th Tokyo Motor Show (Oct 19 – Nov 6, 2005) will be the venue where all the speculation and rumors stop when the 2005 GT-R Concept vehicle is uncovered.
Without a doubt the main feature at the 39th Tokyo Motor Show will be the Next GT-R. No other single vehicle has caused as much hype amongst the international Nissan fan base as this car. Nissan have been watching the international reaction to various rumors, spy photos, concept drawings and the like, and will take it upon themselves to officially state the Next GT-R’s design, new components and capabilities, aim of the car, and price. Nissan may even answer the question that’s confused a number of enthusiasts up until now: the chassis designation. Whether it’s UA-CPV35 GT-R, or due to the ’07 release date, UA-CPV36 GT-R, or another chassis code altogether, Nissan will need to explain why, if the GT-R is to drop it’s connection with the Skyline, would they need to incorporate the Skyline’s traditional four round tail lights.
Sources in Japan have already scooped the Next GT-R’s FR transaxle, twin motor-assisted turbos and ‘e-4WD’ – drive to the front wheels provided by electric motors powered by Lithium batteries. All these mechanisms are unique to the Next GT-R and will lead the way for other car manufacturers to make use of such technological advances in their own vehicle line-ups. One hotly contested feature of the Next GT-R is it’s rumored engine, the VQ32DETT. International speculation has sprouted all sorts of configurations: N/A and turbo V8’s, large capacity V6’s, even rebirth of the legendary RB26DETT. But no other engine configuration has been quoted more times in Japan than the 3.2 liter V6 twin turbo.
The rumored VQ32DETT engine has been developed in conjunction with Cosworth (UK) and the basic design of the V6 twin turbo – in 3.0 liter guise - has seen two full seasons already in the Japanese JGTC (Japan GT Championship) racing series, which VQ powered cars have won consecutively in the last two years. The rigors of JGTC racing and advances in turbo design should put to rest any doubts about a twin turbo V6 configuration not being able to withstand the treatment expected from a US market not familiar with a top level performance turbo offering from Nissan. The concern over how the US market would receive a medium capacity V6 turbo powered GT car from Nissan has brought forth all kinds of rumored engine configurations, none of which have had any mention within the Japanese media for at least two years. It seems practically all the rumors regarding engines other than the VQ32DETT have originated from the very market that is concerned about the reliability of a turbo V6 powered GT car from Nissan (or in the North American market, Infiniti) as opposed to the supposedly better reliability a larger capacity naturally aspirated engine of similar output could offer.
Much importance has been placed on the effective use of underbody aerodynamics, as well as keeping a clean, muscular shape devoid of any large spoilers which were such a signature of the superseded R34 Skyline GT-R. 20-inch alloy wheels and a mix of carbon fiber (bonnet, seat frames, drive shafts, rear diffusers) and aluminum (roof, door panels, rear tailgate) will also feature on a car that is every bit as exotic as it is technologically advanced. The disappointment felt by Japanese Nissan enthusiasts about the controversial tail lights of the V35 Skyline Sedan upon it’s release back in 2001 – no trademark circular lights or ‘hotplates’ – has seen Nissan make a complete about face… even releasing the V35 Skyline Sedan Series II with circular LED arrays to try and convince the Japanese domestic market that they haven’t forsaken the Skyline heritage. What this means is that despite the multitude of CG images gracing the internet and magazines all sporting slightly weak attempts at ‘hotplate’ tail light designs, the Next GT-R will definitely include the four round tail lights that have become the defining feature of the GT-R since the early 1970’s… even though Carlos Ghosn has hinted that the Next GT-R won’t be associated with the Skyline range anymore.
The motto of the Next GT-R that has been thrown around more than a few times amongst the Japanese media is ‘More Super-Sports than you can imagine’. You can be sure that Nissan won’t disappoint this time around, as so many Nissan enthusiasts in Japan have expressed their disapproval of the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show Concept GT-R. Look for more details to come to light as October approaches straight from Japan… so it certainly will be an exciting year for GT-R enthusiasts the world over. Expect to see the Next GT-R released in December 2007.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Source: r35GTR.com
The Next GTR will be explored heavily this upcoming 39th Tokyo Motor Show. Carlos Ghosn will hopefully put a stop to the rumors, and the Next GTR will be the main attraction in the show. In Japan, rumor's are revolving around the VQ32DETT, of which many say will be the choice of engine. Although the GTR will not experience association with the Skyline models, it will still retain round tail lights as evident from the V35 models.
Carlos Ghosn will need to clear up somethings about price, specs, and release dates. It is expected that the GTR come out in late Q4 2007. Nissan's most evident rumor is about the chassis code, whether they will introduce a new one or not. They will certainly need to clear that issue up. The engine is said to be a twin turbo-detuned version of the one found in the fairlady Z33 (350Z) and it is said to have close to 480ps~hp. In the U.S. many rumors surrounding conservative emissions have spurred, those of N/A V8's. Many japanese magazines have speculated on the car's specs.
Mainly it has revolved around the VQ, which might be the same one used in the JGTC since 2003, which coincedently replaced the RB6DETT in some R34 GTR race cars. Many people were discontent with what Nissan released in 2001, the GTR Concept, but it is said that the new GTR will not dissapoint. The test mule under the infiniti body was said to have been a cover up of the internal structure, the real body is still being under development. What is known, is that the body might reflect that of the 350's, not of the V35's. The Next GTR will set the tone for other car makers, the car having the most advanced technology, such as electrical assited twin turbos as well as 'e-4wd.'
03-30-2005 | 07:44 PM
#9
Thread Starter
GTR Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 858
Some new info:
Source: Auto Express
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hot Nissan Aiming Sky
by:Chris Thorp
A new model is just over the horizon from Nissan - but there's no Skyline in sight. An exclusive image in this week's magazine reveals the Japanese firm's hot new GT-R performance flagship. And the big news is that when it's unveiled in the metal at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007, it won't wear a Skyline badge.
Simply called the GT-R, the new Porsche 911 rival will be packed with technology. The idea is to give fans a fitting successor to the Skyline R-34 (image), last sold in the UK in 2002.
The car promises to be even more extreme, and once again provide the next step for Subaru Impreza and Mitsubishi Evo owners looking to upgrade to a supercoupé. The two-door's shape is loosely based on the GT-R concept first shown at the 2001 Tokyo event. The production version will have even more distinctive styling than the R-34, with bulging wheelarches and a squat, cab-forward stance. As expected, the nose features a huge air dam to feed power to the turbocharged engine. It's not yet known just what will be under the bonnet, but insiders have confirmed that the GT-R will deliver at least 400bhp through its all-wheel-drive system.
They have also hinted that, as Nissan's flagship, the car could combine a conventional powerplant with electric motors in the front wheelhubs. This will create the world's first hybrid supercar.
What is certain is that the new machine will be sold in the UK. Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn had previously said: "The next GT-R will be global. That doesn't mean we're going to sell it everywhere, but it'll be able to be sold everywhere." European sales boss Brian Carolin later confirmed the newcomer would appear here. Expect to see it late in 2007.
Source: Auto Express
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hot Nissan Aiming Sky
by:Chris Thorp
A new model is just over the horizon from Nissan - but there's no Skyline in sight. An exclusive image in this week's magazine reveals the Japanese firm's hot new GT-R performance flagship. And the big news is that when it's unveiled in the metal at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007, it won't wear a Skyline badge.
Simply called the GT-R, the new Porsche 911 rival will be packed with technology. The idea is to give fans a fitting successor to the Skyline R-34 (image), last sold in the UK in 2002.
The car promises to be even more extreme, and once again provide the next step for Subaru Impreza and Mitsubishi Evo owners looking to upgrade to a supercoupé. The two-door's shape is loosely based on the GT-R concept first shown at the 2001 Tokyo event. The production version will have even more distinctive styling than the R-34, with bulging wheelarches and a squat, cab-forward stance. As expected, the nose features a huge air dam to feed power to the turbocharged engine. It's not yet known just what will be under the bonnet, but insiders have confirmed that the GT-R will deliver at least 400bhp through its all-wheel-drive system.
They have also hinted that, as Nissan's flagship, the car could combine a conventional powerplant with electric motors in the front wheelhubs. This will create the world's first hybrid supercar.
What is certain is that the new machine will be sold in the UK. Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn had previously said: "The next GT-R will be global. That doesn't mean we're going to sell it everywhere, but it'll be able to be sold everywhere." European sales boss Brian Carolin later confirmed the newcomer would appear here. Expect to see it late in 2007.
04-26-2005 | 12:58 PM
#10
Thread Starter
GTR Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 858
Information sourced from Rezz and 7tune.com
-----------------------------------
Back in July 2003, ‘Holiday Auto’ magazine (Japan) reported the existence of a 1:5th scale clay model of the Next GT-R in which various aerodynamic aids and styling were being trialed… then we heard nothing. Since then a myriad of CG images – by GT-R fans and Nissan alike – have been conjured up, all original designs but all based roughly on the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show Nissan GT-R Concept.
… well, the final design has been decided…
Our source expects the final design renderings to be released by Nissan Design Europe which goes against previous rumors that Nissan Design America would play a part. From now on, NDE will be taking into consideration just how much their design will limit mass production, so there’s a good chance minor details will be changed from the 2005 ‘Concept’ to be shown at this years Tokyo Motor Show.
The image shows a front bumper with large openings which form one large opening with the grille included. There’s a large diffuser incorporated in the rear bumper too, so both these parts form the basis of the advanced underbody aerodynamics package. Seeing the design of these two major parts of the car have been decided, we can assume that the wheelbase and overall body size have been made final. The main focus of the 2005 Concept design has been to differentiate the GT-R from the regular (and yet to be released) V36 Skyline range. This is evident by the crease line around the waist of the car and details around the headlights and aft of the front wheel arches. The final design is completely original, sharing no major panels with the Skyline. That’s right, the next GT-R has completely shed any links to the ‘Skyline GT-R’ of old. Even though cosmetic details of the next GT-R mirror previous GT-R’s (such as the four round tail lights), it will be very different from any Skyline either current or past.
Lets now have a look at the overall dimensions. The entire length of the next GT-R will be shorter than the R34 (4600mm) coming in at about 4500mm. Then the width! Our informer has jokingly said that the next GT-R will look like a Choro-Q! (a miniature toy car with ‘squashed’ proportions) We can expect the GT-R to be about 1900 to 2000mm wide, with a wheelbase of 2700m giving the GT-R a ‘forward cabin – short front overhang’ look, with large rear fenders reminiscent of the Porsche 911 Turbo used to be back in the late 1970’s. As for other cosmetic changes, there has been talk that Nissan will ‘remake’ the head lights and rear combination lights once again…
Moving on to the engine and driveline, development is really starting to move along. As has been reported on before, the next GT-R will use a 3.2L V6 motor-assist twin turbo engine rated at 480ps powering the rear wheels through a traditional RWD transaxle with the front wheels powered by electric motors controlled by an advanced 4WD controller even more sophisticated than the last version of Nissans ‘ATESSA’… but it seems like something new has happened?
Nissan will keep production costs of the next GT-R to a minimum by ‘aggressively cutting costs’, which means parts sharing to you and me. In fact, the 7-speed sequential gearbox will be adapted to an all new RWD car which will be the next big surprise after the GT-R is released. As for marketing and final minor details of the next GT-R, Carlos Ghosn is doing his best to keep everything very secret as he has all but claimed the next GT-R project as his own. But all will be disclosed at the Tokyo Motor Show come October.
-----------------------------------
Back in July 2003, ‘Holiday Auto’ magazine (Japan) reported the existence of a 1:5th scale clay model of the Next GT-R in which various aerodynamic aids and styling were being trialed… then we heard nothing. Since then a myriad of CG images – by GT-R fans and Nissan alike – have been conjured up, all original designs but all based roughly on the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show Nissan GT-R Concept.
… well, the final design has been decided…
Our source expects the final design renderings to be released by Nissan Design Europe which goes against previous rumors that Nissan Design America would play a part. From now on, NDE will be taking into consideration just how much their design will limit mass production, so there’s a good chance minor details will be changed from the 2005 ‘Concept’ to be shown at this years Tokyo Motor Show.
The image shows a front bumper with large openings which form one large opening with the grille included. There’s a large diffuser incorporated in the rear bumper too, so both these parts form the basis of the advanced underbody aerodynamics package. Seeing the design of these two major parts of the car have been decided, we can assume that the wheelbase and overall body size have been made final. The main focus of the 2005 Concept design has been to differentiate the GT-R from the regular (and yet to be released) V36 Skyline range. This is evident by the crease line around the waist of the car and details around the headlights and aft of the front wheel arches. The final design is completely original, sharing no major panels with the Skyline. That’s right, the next GT-R has completely shed any links to the ‘Skyline GT-R’ of old. Even though cosmetic details of the next GT-R mirror previous GT-R’s (such as the four round tail lights), it will be very different from any Skyline either current or past.
Lets now have a look at the overall dimensions. The entire length of the next GT-R will be shorter than the R34 (4600mm) coming in at about 4500mm. Then the width! Our informer has jokingly said that the next GT-R will look like a Choro-Q! (a miniature toy car with ‘squashed’ proportions) We can expect the GT-R to be about 1900 to 2000mm wide, with a wheelbase of 2700m giving the GT-R a ‘forward cabin – short front overhang’ look, with large rear fenders reminiscent of the Porsche 911 Turbo used to be back in the late 1970’s. As for other cosmetic changes, there has been talk that Nissan will ‘remake’ the head lights and rear combination lights once again…
Moving on to the engine and driveline, development is really starting to move along. As has been reported on before, the next GT-R will use a 3.2L V6 motor-assist twin turbo engine rated at 480ps powering the rear wheels through a traditional RWD transaxle with the front wheels powered by electric motors controlled by an advanced 4WD controller even more sophisticated than the last version of Nissans ‘ATESSA’… but it seems like something new has happened?
- The next GT-R will be lighter than the Fairlady Z/350Z., with the use of carbon and aluminum throughout the car, the next GT-R is destined to weigh in less than the Fairlady Z’s 1450kg. This should put any concerns about the GT-R being heavier due to the incredible amount of new systems and technology that’s slated to be included in the final package.
- Back in October last year, the next GT-R prototype was spotted at the Nurburgring old course and subsequently appeared on the cover of just about every car magazine around the world. The Nurburgring prototype completed only a single lap of the old course and was sporting a clever Infinti G35 disguise. The single lap was intended to test mechanicals, but the main focus was on testing a ‘semi-wet sump’ system which is much more practical than the original dry sump system that was planned. So the final decision is a semi-wet sump and we’ll update the details of this as soon as more information arises.
- It’s GT-R lore now that the 1989 - 94 BNR32 GT-R sold at a loss for about 5,000,000 yen, when in actual fact it cost 12,000,000 yen to produce, and Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn has vowed that that situation will never occur again. In fact, Ghosn has said to be pushing for a higher quality vehicle than the next GT-R’s arch rival, the Porsche 911 Turbo. The Porsche 911 Turbo is still the car Nissan want to beat and it seems Ghosn wants to do it better at two thirds the price… But we can rest assured that the next GT-R won’t put Nissan into the red.
- Based on Getrag components, Nissan have developed their own sequential 7-speed gearbox for use in the next GT-R. More on this in our next update.
Nissan will keep production costs of the next GT-R to a minimum by ‘aggressively cutting costs’, which means parts sharing to you and me. In fact, the 7-speed sequential gearbox will be adapted to an all new RWD car which will be the next big surprise after the GT-R is released. As for marketing and final minor details of the next GT-R, Carlos Ghosn is doing his best to keep everything very secret as he has all but claimed the next GT-R project as his own. But all will be disclosed at the Tokyo Motor Show come October.