Nissan has officially announced the end of production for the GT-R R35 after an impressive 18-year run, closing a significant chapter in the history of high-performance vehicles from the Japanese automaker. The last unit was assembled at the Tochigi plant in Japan and was a Premium T-Spec finished in Midnight Purple, dedicated to a customer in Japan, the final market where the car was available.
Why is the Nissan GT-R R35 Considered a Legend in the Sports Car World?
Since its debut in 2007, the GT-R R35 has become a global emblem of Japanese engineering and performance. With approximately 48,000 units produced, it has made a lasting impression on car enthusiasts and motorsport records.
Unlike many cars that undergo minimal updates, the R35 evolved progressively, with annual enhancements in engine power, aerodynamics, cabin quality, and ride comfort, making it a continually developing vehicle over the years.
- Initial Power: 473 horsepower from a VR38DETT six-cylinder twin-turbo engine.
- 2017 Standard Models: 562 horsepower; GT-R Nismo version: 592 horsepower with upgraded turbos and race-inspired components.
- Each engine is hand-assembled by nine skilled "Takumi" craftsmen, and each comes with a unique signature plate.
How Has the GT-R R35 Evolved Over the Years?
The R35 GT-R did not follow a traditional lifecycle but instead featured gradual updates in performance and technology:
Engine and Drivetrain
The heart of the R35 was the VR38DETT six-cylinder twin-turbo engine. Initially producing 473 horsepower at launch, it evolved to deliver 562 horsepower in standard trims and 592 horsepower in the Nismo version. The upgraded turbos, race-inspired components, and precise tuning kept the car competitive on the street and the track.
Exterior Design and Aerodynamics
Nissan has continually refined the aerodynamic shape of the GT-R over the years. Modifications to the front fascia, rear wing, and underbody have enhanced downforce, stability, and cooling efficiency at high speeds.
Interior and Comfort
While the GT-R is classified as a supercar, updates to the interior have focused on usability and driver comfort. With each iteration, the infotainment systems, material quality, and driving environment improved, without compromising the car's inherent performance DNA.
What Achievements Has the GT-R R35 Accomplished on the Track?
The GT-R R35 has established itself as one of the fastest production cars of its time. Shortly after its launch, it recorded a time of 7 minutes and 38 seconds around the Nürburgring, which improved to 7 minutes and 8.679 seconds in the 2013 Nismo edition. To this day, it remains among the top 10 fastest production cars on the track with power under 600 horsepower.
- Tsukuba Circuit: Nismo 2020: 59.361 seconds; 2024 model: 59.078 seconds.
- World record in the Guinness World Records in 2016 for the fastest drift at over 300 km/h at a 30-degree angle.
How Successful Has the GT-R Been in Motorsport?
The R35 GT-R has not only been a legend on the roads but has also made its mark in motorsport:
- Victories in the Japanese Super GT series
- Achievements in the Blancpain GT series
- Win at the Bathurst 12 Hour and Super Taikyu endurance races
These accomplishments have solidified the car's identity as a high-performance vehicle for both the road and the racetrack.
What Lies Ahead for the GT-R After the R35?
Nissan has confirmed that the GT-R name will continue with a new generation temporarily referred to as R36. While details remain scarce, it is expected to feature hybrid technology to balance power and efficiency, with a potential launch by the end of this decade.
The next generation of the GT-R aims to uphold the brand's high-performance legacy while adapting to environmental standards and modern driving demands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Did Nissan Stop Producing the GT-R R35?
Nissan concluded production after 18 years in preparation for the new generation designed to meet evolving performance and environmental standards.
How Many GT-R R35 Units Were Produced?
Approximately 48,000 units were produced between 2007 and 2025.
What Was the Last Model Produced of the GT-R R35?
The final unit was a Premium T-Spec finished in Midnight Purple, designated for a customer in Japan.
Will There Be a New Generation of the Nissan GT-R After the R35?
Yes, the R36 is in development and is expected to utilize hybrid technology, with a potential launch around 2030.
What Engine Did the GT-R R35 Use?
The engine was a VR38DETT six-cylinder twin-turbo, hand-assembled by Takumi craftsmen, with power ranging from 473 to 592 horsepower in Nismo versions.
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