Nissan PH opens 2018 in style with the launch of the GT-R NISMO

Exterior-wise, the GTR-NISMO ups the ante over the regular GT-R with a lower and wider appearance. Up front, it sports a more aggressive bumper with stylish vents and carbon fiber panels that improve aerodynamics and engine/component cooling. This is highlighted by a gaping grille that boasts the GT-R and NISMO insignia.

On the side, the machine flaunts a smooth silhouette, adding to the overall improved aero. In terms of style, it’s got carbon fiber skirts and a set of 20-inch wheels wrapped in NISMO-specific Dunlop tires. The back end, on the other hand, is dominated by an enormous carbon fiber rear wing for maximum down force. Just below is a stylish bumper skirt with functional diffuser and 4 mufflers, 2 on each side.

Inside the GT-R NISMO is a racing-inspired cockpit complete with all the necessary aesthetics and amenities to elevate the “go faster” experience. It all starts with a set of Recaro seats wrapped in leather and alcantara materials. Because the alcantara material’s non-slip advantages, it also wraps the steering wheel.

On the driver’s command is an advanced Gran Turismo-inspired instrument panel which feeds him or her with important vehicle stats. Some of these include mechanical and driving information, acceleration, brake pedal pressure, steering angle and a recording function with playback.

The Nissan GT-R NISMO is held together with a reinforced frame. Attached to it is a set of raced-developed suspension system that Nissan claims to be of a stiffer kind than that of the regular GT-R. As a vehicle with agility and power in mind, the GT-R NISMO comes to a halt via large Brembo brakes.

Finally, the Nissan GT-R NISMO upholds its Godzilla moniker with a hand-built monstrous twin turbocharged 3.8L V6 mill that churns out 592 hp with a pulling power of 652 Nm. Controlling this performance output is a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission that moves all 4 wheels via Nissan’s proprietary Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for all Terrain with Electronic Torque Split (ATTESA-ETS) all-wheel drive system. Best part is that the driver can run through all 6 gears sequentially a la racecar driver via paddle shifters.

NPI has made it clear that the Nissan GT-R NISMO is now available in the Philippines, though it has not disclosed any official sticker price, as of this writing. But based on the regular GT-R’s P7,350,000 price tag, this souped-up version may roll out of the showroom with an SRP approaching around P13-million and above (inclusive of the mark-up due to the recently-implemented tax reform law).

(Photos by Paolo Lesaca)