2023 Nissan GT-R
Overview
The Nissan GT-R is widely regarded as one of the most iconic nameplates of all time, and not just in tuner culture but amongst car enthusiasts around the globe. This cachet, as well as the GT-R’s inherent capabilities, has allowed Nissan to stretch the lifespan of the current-gen R35 model, which entered the market way back in 2009. To be fair, the Japanese automaker has refined the GT-R since then, but the core formula remains the same: 3.8-liter V-6 engine, two turbochargers, a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, and the ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system. These ingredients once allowed Nissan’s supercoupe to reign supreme—including hard-to-believe Nurburgring lap times—but it has since been dethroned by rivals like the Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and Porsche 911 Turbo. On top of being outmuscled by most of its competitors, the GT-R’s spartan interior means it’s also outclassed. Despite these shortcomings, the GT-R is still an exemplary machine that can pound out sprints in about 3 seconds, and we will likely look back at it endearingly once it performs one last smokey burnout and blasts off into the tire smoke of history.
What’s New for 2023?
The Nissan GT-R is carried over from the 2022 model year, unchanged but still unchained.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Somehow Nissan charges six figures for a car that cost less than that when it debuted a decade ago—and hasn’t changed much since. Still, those seeking permanent seat time in the mightiest car to carry the GT-R badge aren’t worried about price. While the ultimate version is the NISMO, it’s nearly twice as much as the Premium model and costs more than the exotic McLaren 570 and Porsche 911 Turbo S. In light of this, we’d suggest the least-expensive GT-R Premium.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2023 GT-R’s standard twin-turbo 3.8-liter V-6 makes a mighty 565 horsepower and 467 pound-feet of torque. It hooks up to a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive that conspire to put all that power to the pavement. At our test track, the GT-R launched itself from zero to 60 mph in a mere 2.9 seconds. The GT-R’s quick steering, rigid structure, adjustable suspension and all-wheel drive can make even amateurs feel positively heroic from behind the wheel. The ride is firm but not punishing and, thanks to active sound cancellation, the thrum of the GT-R’s engine doesn’t punish your ear drums when cruising on the highway. Want more? Check out the NISMO model with a tuned-up engine that makes 600 horsepower and 481 pound-feet of torque, but know that you’ll pay a crazy price premium for it.
Nissan
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA estimates that every GT-R will earn 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. However, we don’t know its real-world mpg since we haven’t tested one on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy route. For more information about the GT-R’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the GT-R’s front seats are plenty roomy but the rear seats are places only small children could find comfortable. The interior is nicely appointed and offers a host of standard features, but those seeking a high-end interior such as those in the Audi R8 or Mercedes-AMG GT will be disappointed with the materials and finishes. Every model features dual-zone climate control, leather-and-suede-covered upholstery, heated front seats, and more. Interior cubby storage is scarce with nothing more than large door pockets and a small center-console bin.
Nissan
The Car and Driver Difference
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every 2023 GT-R is fitted with an 8-inch touchscreen that can also be controlled with a rotary knob on the center console. While Apple CarPlay capability, built-in navigation, and a Bose 11-speaker audio system are standard, Android Auto is not an option. Its infotainment system is easy enough to use even if its graphics and menus are not the most attractive.
How to Buy and Maintain a Car
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
You won’t find any of Nissan’s driver-assistance features here, but to be fair, those types of electronics aren’t commonplace in most of the GT-R’s rivals, either. For more information about the GT-R’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
Standard front and rear parking sensors
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Complimentary scheduled maintenance might not mean much to someone who can afford any GT-R, but some rivals offer it while Nissan doesn’t. Its limited warranty period is also shorter than most rivals that offer four years or 50,000 miles.
Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
Specifications
2020 Nissan GT-R NISMO
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 4-passenger, 2-door coupe
BASE PRICE
$212,435
ENGINE TYPE
twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection
Displacement
232 cu in, 3799 cc
Power
600 hp @ 6800 rpm
Torque
481 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
TRANSMISSION
6-speed dual-clutch automatic with manual shifting mode
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 109.4 in
Length: 184.6 in
Width: 74.6 in
Height: 53.9 in
Passenger volume: 79 cu ft
Trunk volume: 9 cu ft
Curb weight: 3850 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
Zero to 60 mph: 3.0 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 6.9 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 11.2 sec
EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST)
Combined/city/highway: 18/16/22 mpg
More Features and Specs
