Revealed: Nissan’s ageing R35 GT-R gets T-Spec swansong
Nissan has whipped the covers off what could be (but let’s be honest, probably isn’t) its final R35 GT-R models, called the T-Spec and the Track Edition engineered by Nismo T-Spec. A slight mouthful that second one.
The incredibly capable R35 GT-R is into its 13th year of production, with just two facelifts taking place over that time in 2011 and 2017. Over this period the R35 has gone from being one of the most technologically advanced supercars money can buy, to being one of the only pure internal combustion supercars on the market.
The new T-Spec variants are certainly more a case of evolution than revolution. The 3.8-litre VR38DETT twin-turbo V6 under the bonnet still produces the same 421kW and 633Nm as before, with power sent to all four wheels via a six-speed dual clutch and Nissan’s hallowed all-wheel drive system.
Instead of any big mechanical changes, the updated GT-Rs feature mostly updates to details.
The standard T-Spec sits on forged bronze Rays and gets a different suspension tune. Being based on the GT-R Premium, it gets most of that model’s standard features, although Nissan does throw in an interior with different upholstery. The Nismo T-Spec, meanwhile, adds a carbon fibre boot lid and roof, plus a set of black wheels.
The icing on the cake for enthusiasts is the colour palette. Midnight Purple and Millennium Jade, two colours from GT-Rs of old, have been added to the line-up. This complements that addition of Bayside Blue as an option on Nissan’s GT-R 50th Anniversary Edition from 2019.
“The name T-spec represents the GT-R’s philosophy of leading and shaping the times and is inspired by the words trend and traction,” Nissan explains.
“As a trend maker, the GT-R is created to always be ahead of the times, and the car’s ability to drive with robust grip — a key characteristic engineers have always worked hard on — make it a traction master.”
Just 100 of each model will be produced, meaning New Zealand fans may miss out. The only markets that have been confirmed in concrete thus far are Japan and North America. Pricing in Japan starts at just over $204,000.
