A Marked Improvement in Everyday Driving

The author once owned a Nissan “GT-R” shortly after its launch in 2007. While thoroughly satisfied with its overwhelming performance, the author eventually sold it after about two years, finding the maintenance and warranty restrictions too numerous, and the driving experience in everyday situations too bland to enjoy unless pushed hard.

However, the MY17 GT-R, which has undergone its most significant changes to date and was unveiled in Japan, tested by the author on public roads in Germany and Belgium and at the challenging Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, is a car that makes even the author consider wanting to own it again, and to savor its driving experience for a long time.MY17 GT-RFor those who felt the same way about previous GT-Rs, this MY17 GT-R is definitely worth a try. The reason for this impression is, above all, the significantly refined driving experience in everyday situations. The difference is evident even when compared to the most recent

MY15 GT-RMY15 GT-R. You can feel the difference within 100 meters of driving.

The suspension movement is visibly more supple, eliminating unpleasant jolts when passing over road seams or undulations. The steering, with reduced assist, responds precisely even to minute inputs, contributing to a nimble feel. Straight-line stability is also a highlight, with the tendency for the car to wander due to road ruts almost entirely resolved.

The primary reason for this is the retuned body structure. The MY17 GT-R's body boasts increased rigidity through enhancements such as reinforced front window frames and bracing within the trunk. Crucially, this wasn't just about making it stiffer; by bringing the torsional balance closer to even, addressing a previous slight weakness at the front, the ride quality has been elevated.

Significantly Enhanced Powertrain Refinement

The powertrain's refinement is also remarkable. The engine now delivers increased torque across a staggering 70 percent of its rev range, improving throttle response. While the V6 3.8-liter twin-turbo VR38DETT engine's maximum output has been boosted by 20 ps to 570 ps, this is presented as a byproduct, with the primary goal being this torque increase. This was achieved through higher boost pressure and the adoption of technology from the GT-R NISMO” that optimizes ignition timing for each cylinder.

In situations where previously there would be a momentary delay before downshifting and accelerating, the MY17 GT-R now utilizes its substantial torque to accelerate in the same gear. Naturally, the power delivery when revved is even more potent than before. The sound has also been skillfully tuned, allowing for an unprecedented level of enjoyment throughout the process.

Incidentally, the titanium exhaust system now features a switch to control its volume. When activated, it becomes surprisingly quiet, making it unobtrusive even in quiet residential streets late at night.

The gear changes of the 6-speed dual-clutch transmission have become significantly smoother, greatly contributing to improved drivability. Furthermore, the reduction in mechanical operating noise further enhances the perception of smoothness.

The refreshed interior also undoubtedly contributes to enhanced comfort in everyday driving. First and foremost, the improved seats are noteworthy. The surface has lost its tautness, sinking in with supple give while providing excellent body support, making for a truly comfortable experience. The stable posture feels as if the seating position has been lowered.

The newly designed dashboard is covered in a single piece of leather. The previous toy-like appearance is gone, significantly enhancing the ambiance. On the other hand, the switches clustered on the steering wheel are not particularly easy to operate, and the shift paddles, which were previously column-mounted, are now steering wheel-linked, which are minor points of regret.

Confident Acceleration on Any Surface

Of course, this is a GT-R. It hasn't simply been made more comfortable. Its core performance capabilities have also seen significant advancements. Or, to put it more accurately, the enhancement of absolute performance was the prerequisite, and the improved driving quality is a result of that. This was vividly demonstrated during the author's first drive at Spa-Francorchamps.

This circuit, originally part of public roads in a mountainous region, features extreme elevation changes, rough pavement, and a very narrow track. The Eau Rouge section, in particular, is a notorious challenge: after descending at full throttle, one brakes for a right turn, then enters a steep uphill section where the car transitions to a left turn, continuing at full throttle. The rapid shifts in load, both longitudinally, laterally, and vertically, make control extremely difficult.

Moreover, the test drive coincided with the worst possible timing – the onset of rain. Yet, in these conditions, the MY17 GT-R did not suddenly lift or dive, causing its posture to break. Instead, with precise steering response and reliable traction, it allowed for stable and, naturally, fast cornering. The same applied to other corners; there was no tendency to bounce and be unable to accelerate, but rather an ability to actively apply power and grip the road. The responsive powertrain, not just powerful, matched this intent, allowing the author to push hard with confidence, despite it being a first-time experience.

The supple suspension has, of course, dramatically improved ride comfort. However, one might wonder if the underlying goal wasn't to achieve a state where one can confidently accelerate on any surface other than a perfectly flat circuit. This thought occurred to the author while enjoying the intense G-forces.

The GT-R will mark its 10th anniversary next year, yet its capabilities show no signs of fading; they have only become sharper. The MY17, exuding maturity while sharpening its edges rather than softening them, reignited a passion for driving that the author hadn't felt in a long time. With such a significant leap forward, this R35-generation GT-R, nearing its 10th year since launch, will undoubtedly continue to delight car enthusiasts for some time to come. This test drive solidified that conviction.

NISSAN GT-R | The Nissan GT-R
Body Dimensions | Length 4,710 x Width 1,895 x Height 1,370 mm
Wheelbase | 2,780 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,590 / 1,600 m
Vehicle Weight | 1,760 kg
Engine | 3,799 cc V6 Twin-Turbo
Bore x Stroke | 95.5 x 88.4 mm
Compression Ratio | 9.0
Max. Output | 419 kW (570 ps) / 6,800 rpm
Max. Torque | 637 Nm (65.0 kgf·m) / 3,300-5,800 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed Dual Clutch
Drivetrain | 4WD
Min. Turning Radius | 5.7 meters
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Discs
Suspension Front | Double Wishbone
Suspension Rear | Multi-link
Tires Front/Rear | 255/40ZFR20 / 285/35ZFR20
Price |
(Premium edition) ¥11,705,040
(Black edition) ¥11,869,200
(Pure edition) ¥9,960,840