Since introducing the GT-R in 2007 as the brand's halo model, Nissan has never let its twin-turbocharged sports coupe go very long without an update. The more powerful, restyled 2017 model continues that constant evolution at the New York Auto Show. Now making 565 horsepower (20 hp more than the 2016) and 467 pound-feet of torque (a 4 lb-ft upgrade), the company's technological powerhouse arrives at dealers this summer.
To get the extra grunt out of the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6, the GT-R's turbos now have more boost and each cylinder has individual ignition-timing control. A new titanium exhaust and Active Sound Enhancement should make the powerplant sound a little better, too. A six-speed dual-clutch gearbox continues to send power to the front and rear axles, but Nissan claims that refinements mean less noise and smoother shifts.
Several updates also make the 2017 GT-R more comfortable for long trips. Nissan says the retuned suspension offers a smoother ride. An acoustic glass windshield, new sound insulation, and Active Noise Cancellation allow for quieter cruising, too. Added rigidity in the body structure should continue the GT-R's reputation has a sharp handler, though.
Nissan accompanies these mechanical tweaks with a styling upgrade for Godzilla. The automaker's ubiquitous V-Motion grille is now larger at the front, which the company claims allows better engine cooling. Below it, the designers add a new lip spoiler and bumper, which look fantastic. The side sills are now a little wider to improve airflow, and the rear bumper has functional air vents on each side.
The 2017 GT-R's interior continues to move towards a more luxurious vehicle. There's now a seamless piece of Nappa leather for the dashboard and lighter front seats with new side bolsters, which Nissan claims are more comfortable on long drives. The eight-inch capacitive infotainment display is an inch larger than last year and combines the navigation and audio controls into a single unit. The change means the number of switches inside drops to 11 from 27 before. The company also moves the shift paddles to the steering wheel for easier mid-corner changes.
The next-generation GT-R isn't due until 2020 at the earliest and may take styling cues from the Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo. Until then, these upgrades for the 2017 model show that Nissan can continue to refine the latest model.
SOURCE:
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