Nissan India have introduced one of the most iconic cars of our time, the 2017 GT-R R35, at Rs 1.99 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi).
The GT-R, a car that has managed to garner quite a fan following ever since its predecessors graced the street races of the Need For Speed franchise games, has now been launched in India to much acclaim. Although the price-tag may seem steep, it is honestly something that it has earned for itself. Ever since the first car arrived with 485 PS, it went on to become a supercar-killer with its downright precise handling and surgeon-like fine-tuned reflexes.
Bringing the power in the 2017 GT-R is the VR38DETT twin-turbo V6 that displaces 3,799 cc and now puts out 570 PS at 6,800 rpm and a peak 637 Nm between 3,300 and 5,800 rpm. It’s built on ‘Takumi’ (essentially one-man-one-engine) philosophy. An independent transaxle in the rear packs a six-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission, transfer case and differential, that splits torque anywhere between 2:98 or 50:50 front-to-rear. The weight distribution, as a result is spot-on, with a kerb weight of 1,740 kg. The exterior is flowing and wide and has a coefficient of drag rating of 0.26. The claimed acceleration time is 2.7 seconds to 100 km/h and a top speed of 311 km/h. This is one of the fastest, most extreme sports cars on sale in India and the wait has sure been well worth it. Oh, and there’s an optional titanium exhaust package available as well.
We’ve driven the 2016 GT-R at the Buddh International Circuit earlier this year. Although it packed “only” 550 PS and 632 Nm, it was an absolute cracker. Here’s the first drive review.
For now, all we can do it stare at its pleasing face that hides its gut-wrenching and neck-snapping performance until we get to give you a proper road-test review. Speaking of which, the 2017 car has been said to have been tuned to not be as brutal on the driver as the 2016 car. What that means is that when you rent a track to enjoy the GT-R as it should be enjoyed and use ‘R’ mode in full spirit, even turn off the traction control, you will be able to leave in your own car and not on a stretcher in an ambulance.
Story: Jim Gorde