Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Nissan GT-R future in doubt?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/27/nissan-gt-r-future-in-doubt/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/27/nissan-gt-r-future-in-doubt/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/27/nissan-gt-r-future-in-doubt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Nissan GT-R - black - dynamic front three-quarter view

Next up in the "Whoa, what?!" department is a report on Inside Line wondering whether the current Nissan GT-R will be the last Nissan GT-R. The website's sources have learned that Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn has yet to sign off on a next-generation car, which suggests the future model hasn't even begun development. And those same sources say they're not sure Ghosn will ever give the green light.

We're only speculating, but perhaps the problem - if there really is a problem and this isn't Ghosn machinating - has to do with this tidbit taken from the IL story: "Ghosn approved the original GT-R only after being assured that it would make money for the company even at low volumes." We wouldn't be suprised if the shade under 6,000 sales in four years is quite a bit lower than the "low volumes" predicted in Nissan's original cost/benefit calculus.

At launch, the 480-horsepower GT-R MSRP was $69,850, or $71,900 if you wanted the Premium model. Peanuts are cheaper, which is probably why the GT-R has cost substantially more every single year: after its first year, the price jumped to $76,840 for the base model and $79,090 for the Premium; the next year brought a price bump to $80,790 or $83,040 for the Premium; the following year, the base model disappeared and the Premium rose by a premium of $1,020 to $84,060; in 2012 the price took another leap to $90,950; and for 2013, it was another gulp-worthy price boost to $96,820. Yes, the 2013 iteration has 55 more horsepower than the original model and a 2.7-second 0-to-60 time, and yes, you'd look a long time for a sub-$100K car to match its performance, but at that price, the GT-R is mixing with the kinds of sexy metal that can bring attributes to the table that the GT-R can't match.

But of course, along with not knowing if Ghosn will approve a followup to the current car, we don't know why he hasn't done it already - maybe he's changed his mind about that Infiniti GT-R after all, or maybe he hopes you'll be satisfied with the Juke-R. If this car is a "one-hit wonder," though, it was certainly a wonder, if perhaps not enough of a sales hit.

Nissan GT-R future in doubt? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Jul 2012 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 nissan gt-rcarlos ghosngodzillagt-rgtrnissannissan gtrFri, 27 Jul 2012 14:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20287923/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/27/nissan-gt-r-future-in-doubt/20287923/article-detail.xml 20287923 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/nissangt-rgone_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/nissangt-rgone.jpg <![CDATA[Chris Harris + M5 + GT-R. You'll want to watch this]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/chris-harris-m5-gt-r-youll-want-to-watch-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/chris-harris-m5-gt-r-youll-want-to-watch-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/chris-harris-m5-gt-r-youll-want-to-watch-this/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Pitting the Nissan GT-R against the all-new BMW M5 is ridiculous. They're two different beasts in two different classes with two different purposes. It's a cynical, SEO-optimized comparison. And even worse, it's already been done. But...

We can't help but post on it. Not because it's clicky or that a few of us have man-crushes on Chris Harris. No. It's because watching the two cars being flogged back-to-back on a damp circuit demonstrates how technologically sophisticated each one is and how they go about putting the power down so differently. You can actually see the GT-R - traction control switched off - trying to right itself as Harris flings it sideways, while the M5 slackens and goes neutral while the turbocharged eight responds like a naturally aspirated mill.

Scary with a capital "F?" Indeed. But just as educating as it is entertaining. See for yourself below the fold.

Continue reading Chris Harris + M5 + GT-R. You'll want to watch this

Chris Harris + M5 + GT-R. You'll want to watch this originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw m52012 nissan gt-rbmwbmw m5chris harrisdrivem5nissannissan gt-rnissan gtrWed, 15 Feb 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172786/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/15/chris-harris-m5-gt-r-youll-want-to-watch-this/20172786/article-detail.xml 20172786 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/harris-gtr-m5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/harris-gtr-m5.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti still considering version of Nissan GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/infiniti-still-considering-version-of-nissan-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/infiniti-still-considering-version-of-nissan-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/infiniti-still-considering-version-of-nissan-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nissan GT-R Egoist

The rumor is back: Infiniti is considering a top-dog model based on the Nissan GT-R. The GT-R running gear is impressive with its 500-plus turbocharged horsepower and sophisticated all-wheel drive system, but anyone who's driven Nissan's supercar will tell you that it lacks the finesse you'd expect from an Infiniti.

"We have three or four proposals we are looking at right now." Infiniti Advanced Planning chief Francois Bancon told CAR. Of course, automakers create lots of internal proof-of-concept models that never see the light of day, so having proposals doesn't necessarily have any bearing on what might make production. "It would have to be softer than the GT-R," continued Bancon, acknowledging, "You can't easily tweak the GT-R to deliver the sophisticated, more refined performance we would need on an Infiniti." Whether an Infiniti version of the GT-R is mere rumor or eventual reality, there's going to be a wait. For now, Infiniti is focused on launching a smaller model for 2015, and a GT-R-based halo car would come after that program is successfully under way.

Infiniti still considering version of Nissan GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infiniti gt-rinfiniti gtrinfiniti nissan gt-rnissan gt-rnissan gtrThu, 09 Feb 2012 09:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166789/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/infiniti-still-considering-version-of-nissan-gt-r/20166789/article-detail.xml 20166789 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/027-nissan-gt-r-egoist_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/027-nissan-gt-r-egoist.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan taking orders for new GT3-spec Nismo GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/nissan-taking-orders-for-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/nissan-taking-orders-for-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/nissan-taking-orders-for-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nissan GT-R NISMO GT3

What would a Nissan GT-R be without the racing pedigree that's helped make it what it is today? The truth is that we don't even want to know. But we don't have to, because the car known as Godzilla is as devastating on the race track as it is on the street.

Very different racing versions have been made to challenge the FIA GT1 World Championship and for Japan's own Super GT series, the latter powered by a naturally aspirated V8 to satisfy regulations instead of the twin-turbo V6 in the production model. Getting your hands on either of these, however, could prove a bigger challenge than passing one in a race. Fortunately, Nissan has just released a competition-spec GT-R you can buy.

Co-developed by Nismo (Nissan's in-house tuning department) and JR Motorsports (which campaigns a pair of GT-Rs in the aforementioned GT1 series), the GT3-spec model first debuted at the Magny-Cours circuit in France back in August, but is now available for order by privateer teams and gentlemen racers alike. It packs the same 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 as the production model, tuned to deliver 523 horsepower.

That may be slightly less than the current production model (due to the constrictions of GT3 regs) but the Nismo GT3 model also offers a fully adjustable suspension, stripped-out interior with roll cage and all the trimmings, extra cooling ducts and an aggressive aero package. The extra grip is where the extra speed comes from, and it can all be yours for a hair under 300,000 euros, or about $390k at today's rates.

Nissan taking orders for new GT3-spec Nismo GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt-rgt3gtrjr motorsportsjrmnismonissannissan gt-rnissan gt-r nismo gt3nissan gt-r race carnissan gtrTue, 24 Jan 2012 14:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155136/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/24/nissan-taking-orders-for-new-gt3-spec-nismo-gt-r/20155136/article-detail.xml 20155136 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/nismo-gt3web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/nismo-gt3web.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Juke R to pace Dubai 24-hour race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/nissan-juke-r-to-pace-dubai-24-hour-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/nissan-juke-r-to-pace-dubai-24-hour-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/21/nissan-juke-r-to-pace-dubai-24-hour-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nissan Juke R

The Dubai Autodrome will play host to a very special guest for the 2012 Dunlop 24 Hours of Dubai race.

In addition to the scads of GT3-spec BMW Z4s, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMGs, Ferrari 458 Italias and Porsche 911s, the pace car running in front of them will be none other than the Nissan Juke R.

The 480-horsepower GT-R/Juke mash-up hasn't made its debut in front of the public yet, so unless Nissan has a surprise up its sleeves before the race, which is scheduled for the weekend of January 12-14, this will be Juke R's coming out party. We won't be on hand to snag shots of the R in Dubai, but rumor has it that it could make its first Stateside appearance at the Chicago Auto Show.

Nissan Juke R to pace Dubai 24-hour race originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hours of dubaidubai 24hjukejuke rnissannissan gt-rnissan gtrnissan juke rWed, 21 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20131133/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/21/nissan-juke-r-to-pace-dubai-24-hour-race/20131133/article-detail.xml 20131133 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nissan-juke-r-9-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nissan-juke-r-9-628.jpg <![CDATA[Juke R might be awesome, but Nissan HQ ain't happy [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/juke-r-might-be-awesome-but-nissan-hq-aint-happy-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/juke-r-might-be-awesome-but-nissan-hq-aint-happy-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/08/juke-r-might-be-awesome-but-nissan-hq-aint-happy-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nissan Juke R

The Nissan Juke R might be one of the company's most impressive engineering efforts in recent memory, but the skunkworks team behind it has apparently ruffled more than a few feathers with Nissan execs in Japan.

The UK team behind the Juke R apparently didn't seek approval from Nissan's higher-ups before beginning the build, and the unholy GT-R/Juke hybrid concept was apparently born in secret before the unending teasers - see the latest one after the jump - began making their way online.

According to sources close to the company, the release was a complete surprise to many at the automaker and several Nissan executives at the company's headquarters were put-off by the idea that a group of rag-tag engineers the team responsible for a number of Nissan projects, plus successful campaigns in WTCC, BTCC and Le Mans, would take the flagship for everything Nissan is capable of and toss it into an inexpensive compact crossover.

But like you, we think it's awesome, and we suspect when the execs get some seat time, they'll begrudgingly agree.

Continue reading Juke R might be awesome, but Nissan HQ ain't happy [w/video]

Juke R might be awesome, but Nissan HQ ain't happy [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt-rjukenissannissan gt-rnissan gtrnissan jukenissan juke rThu, 08 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20123013/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/08/juke-r-might-be-awesome-but-nissan-hq-aint-happy-w-video/20123013/article-detail.xml 20123013 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nissan-juke-r-2-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/nissan-juke-r-2-628.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan builds the body in seventh Juke-R clip]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/nissan-builds-the-body-in-seventh-juke-r-clip/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/nissan-builds-the-body-in-seventh-juke-r-clip/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/nissan-builds-the-body-in-seventh-juke-r-clip/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Sure, the idea behind the Nissan Juke-R project was to squeeze a GT-R powertrain into a Juke bodyshell. But you didn't think they'd just leave the exterior styling alone to look like a stock example of the little five-door, did you? Of course not.

In the seventh installment of the Juke-R's ongoing web-build video series, Nissan's engineers craft a unique body for the prototype out of carbon fiber. Naturally, extra consideration had to be applied to accommodate the car's unique cooling and aerodynamic considerations, as well as the beefed-up rolling stock. But there's an extra dose of attitude applied somewhere along the way.

Follow the jump to watch the brief video clip, and check out the fresh images added to the ever-expanding image gallery to see how it came together.

Continue reading Nissan builds the body in seventh Juke-R clip

Nissan builds the body in seventh Juke-R clip originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt-rgtrjukejuke-rnissannissan gt-rnissan gtrnissan jukenissan juke-rvideoFri, 18 Nov 2011 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20106714/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/18/nissan-builds-the-body-in-seventh-juke-r-clip/20106714/article-detail.xml 20106714 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/nissan-juke-r-body_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/nissan-juke-r-body.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan releases updated 542hp GT-R overseas [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/nissan-releases-updated-542hp-gt-r-overseas-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/nissan-releases-updated-542hp-gt-r-overseas-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/07/nissan-releases-updated-542hp-gt-r-overseas-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Nissan GT-R

There's no question that Nissan has done some radically impressive things with its GT-R, proving beyond the shred of a doubt that Japan's mainstream automakers can stick it to Europe's elite. But you don't get to where Nissan has gotten with the GT-R by sitting back and letting it grow old. Yokohama's finest spend day and night keeping Godzilla razor-sharp and ready for action. And to that end, they've launched a series of improvements for the latest model.

To say that the updated GT-R represents any sort of major step forward would be a gross exaggeration, but it does pack some new features. Among them are a retuned version of the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 that now delivers more power - 542 horsepower instead of 523 - while returning higher efficiency and lower emissions. A recalibrated shift action, new differential lubricants, an even tauter frame, available carbon-ceramic brakes and an available "track pack" for hot-lap enthusiasts are also part of the improvements. Right-hand-drive models get an assymetrical suspension setup to compensate for the weight of the driver and steering column, there's a new Bose sound system and a rearview camera now comes as standard.

The improvements are said to shave an astonishing eight to ten seconds off the GT-R's already impressive Nürburgring lap time and drop the 0-60 time to as little as 2.7 seconds. Now that's what we call progress. Click past the jump for the official video and press release.


Currently, the new model is being rolled out in Japan and Europe - set to debut later this month at the Tokyo Motor Show - but it's probably only a matter of time until we get the improvements Stateside as well, where we expect it will debut soon as the 2013 model. So stay tuned. In the meantime, you can check out the huge batch of fresh high-resolution images and follow the jump for the video clip and Euro-spec press release.

Continue reading Nissan releases updated 542hp GT-R overseas [w/video]

Nissan releases updated 542hp GT-R overseas [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan gt-r2013 nissan gt-rgt-rgtrnissannissan gt-rnissan gtrMon, 07 Nov 2011 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20100063/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/07/nissan-releases-updated-542hp-gt-r-overseas-w-video/20100063/article-detail.xml 20100063 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/web2013-nissan-gtr31_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/web2013-nissan-gtr31.jpg <![CDATA[520-hp Nissan Juke-R takes shape [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/04/520-hp-nissan-juke-r-takes-shape-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/04/520-hp-nissan-juke-r-takes-shape-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/04/520-hp-nissan-juke-r-takes-shape-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



It's hard not to love Nissan right now. The company has shown more testicular fortitude over the past 12 months than nearly every other mainstream automaker combined with additions like the Murano Crosscabriolet and the Nissan Juke. You may not love either vehicle's bizarre styling, and you may have trouble slotting them into a comfortable market segment, but both show a determination to shirk a formulaic approach to product development. Now Nissan is diving even deeper into the crazy pool with a 520-horsepower version of the Juke. Meet the Juke-R.

Nissan Engineers have taken to wedging the twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 from the Nissan GT-R behind the frog-eye headlights of the Juke. The rest of the supercar's drivetrain comes along for the ride too, including the vehicle's fantastic all-wheel drive system. The Juke-R will even rock the same 20-inch Rays forged wheels as the biggest of its brothers.

Unfortunately, the Juke-R isn't headed for production. The vehicle is a one-off, street-legal concept car worked up by RML and the Nissan Technology Center for Europe. Hit the jump for the full press release as well as a video of the machine.

Continue reading 520-hp Nissan Juke-R takes shape [w/video]

520-hp Nissan Juke-R takes shape [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt-rgtrjukejuke-rnissannissan gt-rnissan gtrnissan jukenissan juke-rsuper jukevideoTue, 04 Oct 2011 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20073208/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/04/520-hp-nissan-juke-r-takes-shape-w-video/20073208/article-detail.xml 20073208 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/nissanjuker001-opt-1317735861_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/nissanjuker001-opt-1317735861.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti GT-R back on the table?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/04/infiniti-gt-r-back-on-the-table/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/04/infiniti-gt-r-back-on-the-table/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/04/infiniti-gt-r-back-on-the-table/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nissan GT-R Egoist

When Japanese automakers crank out a supercar, it is, first of all, a rare occasion. And it usually wears the badge of its respective luxury division. Toyota's is the Lexus LFA. Honda's was the Acura NSX (at least here in the States). But not Nissan. That company's supercar - the GT-R - is a Nissan through and through. But that hasn't always been taken for granted.

Infiniti has long been rumored to get a vehicle based on the GT-R, but that scuttlebutt appeared to reach a dead-end a year ago or so. However, the gossip mill has now cranked back up thanks to a certain Monsieur Carlos Ghosn.

The Renault-Nissan CEO has reportedly gone on the record with the UK's CAR, indicating that his luxury marque could - but won't necessarily - build a luxury GT-R. Ghosn stopped short of confirming that a project was in the pipeline, but left the possibility open for the future. So there's some hope. The question is whether an Infiniti supercar would have much room to improve over the existing beast we know as Godzilla, particularly when the above-pictured Egoist model already offers nearly all the trimmings you could ask for.

Infiniti GT-R back on the table? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carlos ghosnghosngt-rgtrinfinitiinfiniti gt-rnissan gt-rnissan gtrThu, 04 Aug 2011 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20008545/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/04/infiniti-gt-r-back-on-the-table/20008545/article-detail.xml 20008545 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/027-nissan-gt-r-egoist_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/027-nissan-gt-r-egoist.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan GT-R to get power bump, Spec R version]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/31/nissan-gt-r-to-get-power-bump-spec-r-version/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/31/nissan-gt-r-to-get-power-bump-spec-r-version/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/31/nissan-gt-r-to-get-power-bump-spec-r-version/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Nissan GT-R Egoist
2012 Nissan GT-R Egoist - Click above for high-res image gallery

Staying on top demands constant improvement, and Nissan has certainly proven itself up to the task with the current R35-generation GT-R. Since its domestic introduction in 2007 and global roll-out in 2009, Nissan has launched successive improvements on its flagship sportscar, and now word is coming of another upgrade on the way.

According to the folks at 7Tune, output from the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 is set to increase from 530 horsepower up to 560. And to supersede the current Spec V model, a Spec R is said to be in the works, dropping another 70 pounds or so for even more extreme performance.

Development of the new GT-R has reportedly been postponed in the wake of the quake fallout in Japan, pushing the car's launch back by several months. These are expected to be the final iterations of the R35 before its successor arrives.

Nissan GT-R to get power bump, Spec R version originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 May 2011 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan gt-rgt-rgt-r spec rgt-r spec-rgtrnissannissan gt-rnissan gt-r spec rnissan gt-r spec-rnissan gt-r specrnissan gtrspec rspec-rTue, 31 May 2011 13:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19954254/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/31/nissan-gt-r-to-get-power-bump-spec-r-version/19954254/article-detail.xml 19954254 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/000-nissan-gt-r-egoist_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/000-nissan-gt-r-egoist.jpg <![CDATA[Dacia unleashes 850-hp GT-R-powered Duster "No Limit" Pikes Peak challenger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/27/dacia-unleashes-850-hp-gt-r-powered-duster-no-limit-pikes-peak/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/27/dacia-unleashes-850-hp-gt-r-powered-duster-no-limit-pikes-peak/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/27/dacia-unleashes-850-hp-gt-r-powered-duster-no-limit-pikes-peak/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dacia Duster
Dacia Duster "No Limit" - Click above for high-res image gallery

Dacia sends its racing team out in winters to drift across ice and snow for the Andros Trophy. But when the summer rolls around, even the snow on the French Alps begins to thaw. What's an ice racing team to do? Why, head to Pikes Peak, of course.

The international hill climb event is coming around again next month, and when it does, the likes of Monster Tajima and Rhys Millen will have an interesting new challenger on its hands. And after months of reports and teasers, you're looking at the finish product.

A joint effort between Dacia, Renaultsport, a number of independent firms and driver Jean-Phillipe Dayraut who brought them all together, the Dacia Duster "No Limit" was built for the Unlimited class at Pikes Peak, where (contrary to just about any other form of motorsport) there are essentially no restrictions placed on a car's specifications. As a result, the purpose-built racer packs the twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 from a Nissan GT-R (tuned to 850 horsepower), which is mounted amidships behind the cabin and mated to a six-speed sequential racing gearbox. All of that mechanical chutzpah is kept down by the most aggressive aerodynamics package this side of an F-35 Lightning.

It's a beast of a car, and we can't wait to see Dayraut - the reigning three-time Andros Trophy champion - take its wheel at the Peak on June 26. In the meantime, check out the extensive high-res image gallery for a closer look and follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Dacia unleashes 850-hp GT-R-powered Duster "No Limit" Pikes Peak challenger

Dacia unleashes 850-hp GT-R-powered Duster "No Limit" Pikes Peak challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 May 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daciadacia dusterdacia duster no limitdayrautdustergtrjean-phillipe dayrautnissan gtrpikes peakPikes Peak International Hill ClimbrenaultsportFri, 27 May 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19950654/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/27/dacia-unleashes-850-hp-gt-r-powered-duster-no-limit-pikes-peak/19950654/article-detail.xml 19950654 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/web31dacia-duster-no-limit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/web31dacia-duster-no-limit.jpg <![CDATA[Final Best Motoring battle pits LFA against GT-R, ZR1, 911 GT2 RS and F430 GT3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/final-best-motoring-battle-pits-lfa-against-gt-r-zr1-911-gt2-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/final-best-motoring-battle-pits-lfa-against-gt-r-zr1-911-gt2-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/17/final-best-motoring-battle-pits-lfa-against-gt-r-zr1-911-gt2-r/#commentsBest Motoring Fuji supercar battle
Best Motoring Fuji supercar battle - Click above to watch the video after the break

If you were one of the many automotive enthusiasts to shed a tear when it became known that Japan's Best Motoring set off for the giant junkyard in the sky, we have a little piece of good news to cheer you up: there's one final track battle for your viewing pleasure.

Even better news: Best Motoring went out with a bang, pitting the Lexus LFA up against such performance benchmarks as the Nissan GT-R, Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Porsche 911 GT2 RS and Ferrari F430 GT3.

Yes, there are two almost-race-cars in the mix there along with three machines intended solely for the street, but it doesn't really matter. All such contests should be taken with a grain of salt anyway.

When it's all said and done, what we have here are five mouth-watering supercars on a track together being driven in anger. Want to know how it all shakes out? Check out the video after the break.

Continue reading Final Best Motoring battle pits LFA against GT-R, ZR1, 911 GT2 RS and F430 GT3

Final Best Motoring battle pits LFA against GT-R, ZR1, 911 GT2 RS and F430 GT3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 May 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best motoringchevrolet corvette zr1ferrari f430 gt3gtrlexus lfalfanissan gt-rnissan gtrporsche 911 gt3 rszr1Tue, 17 May 2011 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19943164/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/17/final-best-motoring-battle-pits-lfa-against-gt-r-zr1-911-gt2-r/19943164/article-detail.xml 19943164 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/best-motoring-final_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/best-motoring-final.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Watch split-screen action of 2011 Nissan GTR vs. Corvette ZR1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/video-watch-split-screen-action-of-2011-nissan-gtr-vs-corvette/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/video-watch-split-screen-action-of-2011-nissan-gtr-vs-corvette/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/video-watch-split-screen-action-of-2011-nissan-gtr-vs-corvette/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

chevrolet corvette zr1 versus nissan gtr at the nurburgring
Click above to watch the video after the jump

Last week we told you about the fresh, faster Nürburgring track times of the Nissan GTR, with video that proves that Godzilla 2012 managed to shave 2.48 seconds off its best lap. We were under the impression that the GTR's new top time wasn't enough to best the Corvette ZR1, but a side-by-side (or rather a top-to-bottom) comparison video of both runs gives us the definitive answer.

Beyond the jump is a video pitting the in-car camera view of the ZR1 (top screen) versus the 2012 GTR (bottom screen). Pay close attention from the five minute mark to about 6:20 into the clip, as the vehicle with the lead loses it for good at this point in the race. Very entertaining little competition, but you'll have to hit the jump and watch to see the winner for yourself.

[Source: CarScoop]

Continue reading Video: Watch split-screen action of 2011 Nissan GTR vs. Corvette ZR1

Video: Watch split-screen action of 2011 Nissan GTR vs. Corvette ZR1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan gtrcorvette zr1gtr nurburgring timegtr versus zr1nissan gtrnurburgringnurburgring gtrnurburgring lap timenurburgring zr1Wed, 30 Mar 2011 18:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19896339/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/30/video-watch-split-screen-action-of-2011-nissan-gtr-vs-corvette/19896339/article-detail.xml 19896339 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/zr1-versus-gtr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/zr1-versus-gtr.jpg <![CDATA[Launch control is back on 2012 Nissan GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/20/report-launch-control-is-back-on-2012-nissan-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/20/report-launch-control-is-back-on-2012-nissan-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/20/report-launch-control-is-back-on-2012-nissan-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Nissan GT-R
2012 Nissan GT-R - Click above for high-res image gallery

The GT-R obessives at NAGTROC managed to secure a copy of the 2012 Nissan GT-R owner's manual and discovered that Nissan has reinstated the formerly verboten Launch Control feature for the 2012 model. But this time it's called something different.

The new name is R Mode Start Function and the screen cap on the right lists off what you need to do to click of 0-60 mph runs in the low three-second range - or even the high twos, according to some preliminary reports.

After several reports of transmissions and half-shafts grenading themselves soon after the GT-R hit U.S. shores, Nissan removed the L.C. feature for the 2011 model year. This revised system seems to do the exact same thing, although the 4,000 rpm rev-limit is significantly higher than the last version and the ECU limits the start function to four consecutive runs before its disabled to protect the GT-R's twin clutches and the rest of the transmission's oily bits.


Gallery: 2012 Nissan GT-R


[Sources: NAGTROC (PDF warning) via 2009 GTR]

Launch control is back on 2012 Nissan GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan gt-r2012 nissan gtrlaunch controlnissan gt-rnissan gt-r launch controlnissan gtrR Mode start functionThu, 20 Jan 2011 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19808975/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/20/report-launch-control-is-back-on-2012-nissan-gt-r/19808975/article-detail.xml 19808975 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/03-2012-nissan-gt-r-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/03-2012-nissan-gt-r-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Umbrella Auto Design tricks out the Nissan GT-R's cockpit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/07/umbrella-auto-design-tricks-out-the-nissan-gt-rs-cockpit/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/07/umbrella-auto-design-tricks-out-the-nissan-gt-rs-cockpit/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/07/umbrella-auto-design-tricks-out-the-nissan-gt-rs-cockpit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Umbrella Design Nissan GT-R
Nissan GT-R interior by Umbrella Auto Design - Click above for high-res image gallery

If the Nissan GT-R is going to seriously take on the Porsche 911, it's going to need to do a bit better on the interior fit and finish. Nissan's own people realized that much when they launched the Egoist edition of the new GT-R, but what if you've already got your Godzilla in the driveway? What are you to do then?

Turn to Umbrella Auto Design, that's what. The Seattle-based tuners have announced an aftermarket retrofit for the GT-R's interior that swathes the entire cabin - seats, dashboard, console, instrument binnacle, steering wheel, door panels, shift levers, etc. in luxe and racy black ultra-suede with silver diamond quilting and top-stitch. They've even repainted the plastics in black to match. Looks pretty slick, and they can reportedly carry it out on any GT-R in about three weeks. Check it out in the gallery below.


Gallery: Nissan GT-R interior by Umbrella Auto Design


[Source: Umbrella via GT-R Blog]

Umbrella Auto Design tricks out the Nissan GT-R's cockpit originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Nov 2010 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt-rgtrnissannissan gt-rnissan gtrumbrellaumbrella auto designSun, 07 Nov 2010 16:49:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19706271/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/07/umbrella-auto-design-tricks-out-the-nissan-gt-rs-cockpit/19706271/article-detail.xml 19706271 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/web630-umbrella-f1-gtr-003_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/web630-umbrella-f1-gtr-003.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Facelifted 2012 Nissan GT-R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-facelifted-2012-nissan-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-facelifted-2012-nissan-gt-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-facelifted-2012-nissan-gt-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Nissan GT-R
2012 Nissan GT-R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Well look what we found tucked away in a glass-enclosed corner of the Nissan stand. What you're looking at is the 2012 Nissan GT-R, complete with a fascia comprised of a restyled bumper, air-intakes and LED daytime running lamps. A new diffuser pulled from the SpecM is mounted out back, along with new lightweight wheels that may or may not be included in the final package. Our insider wouldn't give us any details on power increases, but they did say we should keep an eye out for an official announcement in the coming months.


Gallery: Paris 2010: 2012 Nissan GT-R

2012 Nissan GT-R2012 Nissan GT-R2012 Nissan GT-R2012 Nissan GT-R2012 Nissan GT-R

Paris 2010: Facelifted 2012 Nissan GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2012 nissan gt-r2012 nissan gtrnissan gt-rnissan gtrparisparis auto showparis auto show 2010paris motor show 2010Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655343/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/paris-2010-facelifted-2012-nissan-gt-r/19655343/article-detail.xml 19655343 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01-2012-nissan-gtr-live-parisopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01-2012-nissan-gtr-live-parisopt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Nissan GT-R changes appear on web]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/24/2012-nissan-gt-r-changes-appear-on-web/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/24/2012-nissan-gt-r-changes-appear-on-web/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/24/2012-nissan-gt-r-changes-appear-on-web/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Nissan GT-R - Click above for image gallery

The thing about a halo car is that it needs that pretty little halo buffed and shined every single year to be sure the machine is kept at the forefront of consumers' minds. Nissan has been doing a pretty good job with its GT-R over the last few years in this regard, bumping power here and adding new techno-goodies there - all in an effort to give its giant slayer the tools to continue properly slaying.

That trend looks to continue for the 2012 model year, as the hive mind from GTRBlog.com has managed to score enough information on the upcoming machine to put together a nice little preview. Starting with the exterior, the next GT-R will get a revised front fascia complete with new (and sure to be controversial) LED driving lights frenched into new canards at either corner of the front bumper, lowering the car's coefficient of drag from 0.272 to 0.268.

There's also a new rear diffuser that adds 10 percent more downforce at the business end and a set of forged wheels from Rays cut 6.6 pounds of unsprung weight at each corner for a total loss of over 26 pounds. Impressive. There are reportedly two new colors for both the wheels - Hyper Blue Black and Hyper Titanium - and for the car - Aurora Flare Blue Pearl and Nebula Opal Black.

Expect price increases for both the base model, which will now be known as the Pure Edition, and the Premium Edition. Naturally, we're also told to expect some additional horsepower. We'll keep our eyes and ears peeled for more.


Gallery: 2012 Nissan GT-R


[Source: GTRBlog.com]

2012 Nissan GT-R changes appear on web originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Aug 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 gt-r2012 gtr2012 nissan gt-r2012Gt-r2012Gtr2012NissanGt-rgt-rgtrnissannissan gt-rnissan gtrNissanGt-rNissanGtrTue, 24 Aug 2010 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19606036/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/24/2012-nissan-gt-r-changes-appear-on-web/19606036/article-detail.xml 19606036 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/2012-gtr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/2012-gtr.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Nissan GT-R Club Track Edition revealed?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/02/2011-nissan-gt-r-club-track-edition-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/02/2011-nissan-gt-r-club-track-edition-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/02/2011-nissan-gt-r-club-track-edition-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Ready for another Nissan GT-R iteration? In April, Nissan said it would be working with third parties to set up a driving club that would offer members track-ready Godzillas, and this is apparently the result: the Track Club Edition GT-R, a product of the minds at Nissan, NISMO, NOVA Engineering in Shizuka and Nordring tuning in Saitama, Japan.

A Japan-only endeavor, the umbrella organization is called The Prestige Club of GT-R, and to run in it will require a cave-full of yen: the car itself is ¥10,479,000 ($120,725 U.S.); membership in The Prestige Club membership is ¥2 million ($23,024 U.S.) and annual dues are a further ¥1 million ($11,513 U.S.). For all of that you get the special GT-R, a race number and inclusion in two race days and an annual gathering.

As for the racer itself, performance upgrades include new ECM, traction control, ABS and VCD programming, two-way adjustable Bilstein dampers and revised upper front links, a front lip spoiler, NACA duct and brake air guides among other things. Inside, there's a four-point harness with a six-point retention system available over a Bride Gardis III seat, automatic fire suppression system and NISMO data logging kit. The twin-turbo motor puts out in excess of 493 horsepower and 434 pound-feet, and the package rides on 20-inch Rays Forged Aluminum wheels from the SpecM shod with Dunlop Direzza Long Life Slicks. If you're going to be in Japan and want in on the series, applications are being accepted until September 20. Check out GT-R World at the links below for more images and information. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: GT-R World (translated), GT-R World (translated), NAGTROC]

2011 Nissan GT-R Club Track Edition revealed? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Aug 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>godzillagt-rgtrnismonissan godzillanissan gt-rnissan gt-r track club editionnissan GTRNissanGodzillaNissanGt-rNissanGt-rTrackClubEditionNissanGtrnordringnordring tuningNordringTuningnova engineeringNovaEngineeringprestige clubPrestigeClubthe presige clubthe prestige clubThePresigeClubThePrestigeClubtrack club edition gt-rTrackClubEditionGt-rMon, 02 Aug 2010 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19576998/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/02/2011-nissan-gt-r-club-track-edition-revealed/19576998/article-detail.xml 19576998 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/nissangt-rclub-track_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/nissangt-rclub-track.jpg <![CDATA[Report: German-baiting Nissan ads at Goodwood draw Porsche ire]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/15/report-german-baiting-nissan-gt-r-ads-at-goodwood-draw-porsche/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/15/report-german-baiting-nissan-gt-r-ads-at-goodwood-draw-porsche/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/15/report-german-baiting-nissan-gt-r-ads-at-goodwood-draw-porsche/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Why is everybody picking on Porsche these days? Last month, the marketing team at Mini had quite a bit of fun at the expense of the German sports car maker, daring the storied automaker to step into the ring to take on a Mini Cooper S at Road Atlanta. A privately sourced 911 ended up kicking the Mini's go-kart-handling butt to the curb, but even in defeat, the British marquee had the nerve to mention that the 911's two-second victory would cost the typical weekend warrior about $36,000 per second.
Mini isn't the first automaker to go after Porsche; Nissan has been nipping at the heels of the 911 since the venerable GT-R hit the streets a couple years back. Nissan was back at its German rival during the Goodwood Festival of Speed last week, with a splattering of advertising preaching general superiority. Nissan smacked at Porsche, Audi and BMW on a giant billboard at London's BFI IMAX cinema and on smaller postcards handed out. The ads are part of a UK-wide campaign that includes such slogans as "How to beat the Germans" and amusingly, "Kaisers Chiefed" and "The Germans Came Off Wurst." The aggressive campaign at Goodwood included a brace of Nissan GT-R and 370Z models displayed wearing BMW, Audi and Porsche logos next to fighter plane-style kill marks.
So, is Porsche going to take this face-slap sitting down? Actually, lawyers at the German automaker have already blew the whistle on the ad, but not because of any embarrassment, pain or trauma it may have caused. Instead, Porsche suits simply asked that any unauthorized use of its crest trademark be removed. Nissan is reportedly removing the trademarks and continuing the ad campaign. For our money, we'd rather see the lawyers stay out of this fight and get a GT-R and a 911 Turbo on the 'Ring for a final showdown.

[Source: Guardian UK]

Report: German-baiting Nissan ads at Goodwood draw Porsche ire originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Jul 2010 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>370zGT-RGTRnissan adnissan advertisingnissan billboardnissan gtrnissan marketingnissan porsche advertisingNissan ZNissanAdNissanAdvertisingNissanBillboardNissanGtrNissanMarketingNissanPorscheAdvertisingNissanZNurburgringnurburgring gtr nissanNurburgringGtrNissanporscheporsche 911porsche bashing nissanPorsche911PorscheBashingNissanThu, 15 Jul 2010 16:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19554323/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/15/report-german-baiting-nissan-gt-r-ads-at-goodwood-draw-porsche/19554323/article-detail.xml 19554323 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/nissan-z-kill-ads_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/nissan-z-kill-ads.jpg -1 2