Nissan GT-R empowered in looks and performance

New 2017 model is being touted as most refined, most progressive car automaker has ever produced

NEW YORK— Just when you thought we had exhausted the gauntlet of superstar beauties from the Geneva Motor Show, one more notable marvel from Nissan was held back for display at the New York Auto Show.

The two-door GT-R supercar has been Nissan’s flagship since its arrival in 2008. Throughout the years, it’s had some minor nips and tucks but, for 2017, the sports car known as “Godzilla” receives its most significant makeover — from its muscular head to its pointy toes and everything underneath.

“The 2017 Nissan GT-R is the most refined, most powerful and most progressive car Nissan has ever produced,” said Daniele Schillaci, Nissan’s executive vice-president of global marketing and sales.

Similar to most of Nissan’s latest new models, the GT-R receives a larger version of its V-motion signature grille that’s polished off with a matte chrome finish and modernized mesh design.

It might seem out of place on the new GT-R, where you would like to see it as a stand-alone vehicle on the roster, but this treatment serves the additional purpose of providing better engine cooling.

Luckily, the GT-R’s traditional four-ring taillights stay intact, alongside side air vents for improved airflow management.

Every part of the GT-R’s sizable makeover continues the dual purpose of styling and functionality that contributes to sustaining a 0.26 aerodynamic drag coefficient.

A new hood with character lines flow from its grille, for not only a forward-moving appearance but also stability enhancement under highspeed driving. Its front spoiler lip and front bumpers are nestled below the headlamps, adding that fire-breathing racing element and high levels of front downforce. Finally, its side sills have been pushed farther out to give it more of a winged-edge, as airflow circulates throughout the vehicle.

Under the hood, power has been increased for the beast, despite keeping the same 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V-6 engine. Performance numbers now total 565 hp and 467 lb.-ft. of torque, an uptick of 20 hp and 4 lb.-ft., thanks to an extra boost from the turbochargers and some tinkering with ignition-timing controls.

According to Nissan, gear shifts are administered by a refined six-speed dualclutch transmission that features smoother shifts and less noise.

Handling has always been one of the GTR’s best attributes and, for 2017, it’s expected to get better, with a more rigid body structure and new suspension that provides daily-driver performance.

It will sit on new 20-inch, 15-spoke forged aluminum wheels that can only improve its stability and cornering abilities.

The significant changes continue inside, with a modernized and elevated interior that reflects its edgy profile.

The GT-R features an instrument panel wrapped in hand-selected Nappa leather, an eight-inch touchscreen with large icons for mobile apps and navigation, as well as a new display command control on its carbon-fibre centre console.

In addition, paddle shifters have been mounted on the steering wheel for easy shift access.

The 2017 Nissan GT-R will be at dealerships this summer. Prices have yet to be announced, but we should expect it to be close to the 2016 starting price of $110,000 before taxes and freight. Freelance writer David Miller recently started contributing to Toronto Star Wheels. For this story, his travel and other expenses were paid for by the manufacturer. To reach him, email wheels@thestar.ca and put his name in the subject line.