After an illustrious 18-year production run, Nissan has officially ceased accepting orders for its iconic GT-R sports car in Japan, marking the end of
After an illustrious 18-year production run, Nissan has officially ceased accepting orders for its iconic GT-R sports car in Japan, marking the end of an era for the legendary model. The GT-R, affectionately dubbed “Godzilla” by enthusiasts, made its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007 and quickly garnered acclaim for its exceptional performance and technological prowess.
Over its nearly two-decade lifespan, the GT-R underwent several updates and facelifts, with the most recent in 2023, ensuring it remained competitive in the ever-evolving sports car market. Central to its appeal was the robust 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, which, in its final iterations, delivered up to 600 horsepower in the high-performance Nismo variant.
The GT-R’s discontinuation has been a phased process across various global markets, primarily due to increasingly stringent safety and emissions regulations. In March 2022, sales concluded in Europe and the UK as the model failed to meet new noise regulations. Similarly, in October 2021, Australia and New Zealand ceased sales due to updated side-impact crash requirements. North America followed suit, with production halting in October 2024.
In a heartfelt message to its customers, Nissan expressed gratitude for the unwavering support since the GT-R’s launch in 2007, stating, “We have received many orders for the Nissan GT-R and have now finished accepting orders for the planned production quantity.”
As the automotive industry shifts towards electrification, the future of Nissan’s high-performance lineup remains a topic of speculation. The company showcased the Hyper Force Concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, hinting at a potential electric successor to the GT-R. This concept features a dual-motor setup producing a combined 1,360 PS and is equipped with next-generation solid-state batteries, signaling Nissan’s commitment to innovation in the electric sports car segment.
The conclusion of the GT-R’s production signifies not just the end of a model but the closing chapter of a vehicle that redefined performance benchmarks and cultivated a global fanbase. As Nissan navigates the challenges of a rapidly changing automotive landscape, enthusiasts remain hopeful for a worthy successor that embodies the spirit and legacy of the GT-R.
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