Nissan GT-R Back On Top

Ever since the Nissan GT-R was named Motortrend’s Car of the Year (back in 2009), it has received a massive amount of attention. And rightfully so, since this is car that can hold its head high in exalted company — the Porsche 911 Turbo S ($170,000), Ferrari 458 Spyder ($260,000) and even the Lamborghini Aventador ($387,000).

In fact, many people have even called this one the “budget” super car, given it’s much smaller price tag—at least when compared to the above-listed models. Even the new 2013 model is going to come in at just $97,820 in the US for the Black Edition. You could put together a nice collection of three of these and a BMW 5 series for the same price as the Aventador.

The GT-R  Has More Updates Than Windows

The thing which has impressed us the most about the GT-R is the fact that Nissan is committed to regularly updating and adding new features. And unlike Windows updates, these aren’t to patch bugs. No, these Nissan updates are making a great car even better. In this day and age of budget and cost-cutting it is very rare to see anything updated as aggressively on an annual basis, even if it is a high end sports vehicle. The only comparable car in this regard is another 3.8 lieter turbo car, the McLaren MP4-12C.

If you recall, the GT-R started out (way back in 2008) producing a ‘measly’ 480 horsepower. After several updates, the current 2013 edition will now crank out 545 horsepower and 463 pound-feet of torque. And that is from a relatively small engine — a 3.8 liter twin turbo V6.

You will notice a new handmade carbon fiber wing and light weight six-spoke Rays alloys. These new wheels will save 2.2 pounds per corner — a useful weight saving with the potential to also improve the already superb handling. The seats are Recaro and there is now red leather trim all around the seats, shifter and door panels.

The new GT-R is not only stronger, but also smoother. But remember —  it likes to be driven fast. So put some of that money you are saving over the Aventador and put it aside to pay for tickets!

The Final Word

While many have made claims that driving the GT-R is not a whole lot of fun, or even “unemotional,” we think they are just plain wrong. Sure, it might not be quite as raw and sheer tactile experience as the Ferrari 458, but this car still is incredibly fun and exciting to drive with limits that are far beyond anything a normal driver could possibly reach on public roads.

And then there is the everyday useability. The price, driving position and whiplash gear change pretty much rules out the Aventador as a daily driver. The GT-R on the other hand can be used as your main car, with only the rather stiff ride taking the shine off the experience.