2016 Nissan GT-R

New for 2016

The 2016 Nissan GT-R spews an additional five horsepower in non NISMO® versions thanks to a few electronic tweaks. The Premium trim gets a flash new set of 20-spoke wheels, replacing the old 10-spoke design. And a 45th Anniversary Gold Edition has been added to the lineup celebrating 45 years of worldwide GT-R production.

Monster Mash 

What can we say about the GT-R that hasn’t already been said? For 45 years Nissan’s four-wheeled Godzilla has garnered quite the following thanks to understated yet commanding designs and performance that rivals – and in many cases bests – the world’s most exotic (read: expensive) supercars. Did we mention it seats four and can launch from zero to 60 mph in under three seconds?

For 2016, the GT-R returns even better than before, if you can believe it. So sit down and strap in as we review one of the world’s most iconic (and most attainable) performance monsters ever to be built.

Powertrains and Performance

The beating heart of the 2016 GT-R is a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine that generates an astounding 550 horsepower and 463 pound-feet of torque. We’ll let those numbers sink in before telling you that this engine is mated to a six-speed automated manual transmission that routes power to all four wheels via an advanced all-wheel-drive system.

The GT-R can live happily parked in your garage or driveway but its true habitat is the racetrack. Its performance levels are truly out of this world, too. By utilizing a built-in launch-control program, the GT-R can rocket (from a standstill) to 60 mph in a mere 3.2 seconds. 

And while it probably doesn’t matter to most, the GT-R returns pretty darn impressive fuel economy, to boot. With an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined (16 city/22 highway),* the GT-R may be a fire-breathing beast, but it has the courtesy to claw at your senses, not your bank account.

As if that wasn’t enough, the speed demons at Nissan offer another, more beastly version. Indeed, the GT-R NISMO® is a track-ready version of the fabled supercar. It boasts an upgraded version of the “standard” model’s V6. Here, power output is boosted to 600 horsepower and 481 pound-feet of torque. Insane. 

Features and Trims

The 2016 Nissan GT-R is a high-performance 2+2 sport coupe. It can seat four and starts at a mere $101,770.** It is available in three trim levels: Premium, Black Edition, and NISMO®, which was introduced last year.

The entry-level Premium model is filled to the brim with standard content, including 20-inch alloy wheels, an adaptive suspension that provides superb handling, and Brembo® brakes. Automated LED adaptive headlights, LED running lights, and a rearview camera are also standard.

While the GT-R is truly a high-performance vehicle, it doesn’t skimp out on the comfort and luxuries drivers expect. With that in mind, it comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, leather/simulated suede upholstery, heated front seats, and an eight-way power driver seat to ensure maximum comfort.

On the tech front, the GT-R sports veritable arsenal of features. In addition to a seven-inch touchscreen, owners get Bluetooth® phone and audio connectivity, a navigation system, and an 11-speaker premium Bose® sound system.

The GT-R Black Edition is even more impressive, with its lightweight black alloy wheels, carbon-fiber rear spoiler, and Recaro® front sport seats. True to its name, it also sports unique black and red interior trim.

Finally, the GT-R NISMO® gets an enhanced engine, reinforced body, and firmer suspension. The NISMO® also gets aerodynamic upgrades and distinctive interior trim.

Design

Enormous front fenders, crisp edged, and rounded contours characterize the 2016 Nissan GT-R. At 183.9 inches long, Nissan’s powerhouse performer doesn’t turn heads with its sheer size, but it’s no wallflower either. Standard 20-spoke wheels lend even more bravado, while the Black Edition’s blacked-out wheels pile on the attitude.

Slide into the driver's seat and you'll immediately notice the big red start button (yes, push it!) located just below the gearshift, between the two front leather-appointed seats. The front console sports a trio of switches to select ride and handling settings, and when not showing navigation info on its large, seven-inch screen, the center display relays all manner of data performance data, including the torque split between wheels and transmission oil temperature.

Safety

You would think safety would be an afterthought in a vehicle so dedicated to power but that simply isn’t the case. The 2016 GT-R comes fully equipped with a safety suite that includes antilock disc brakes, stability control and traction control, front-seat side airbags, and full-length side curtain airbags.

Bottom Line

Few vehicles will get your heart racing like the 2016 GT-R. Its reputation as one of the most complete and dynamic supercars around is not exaggerated. With zero to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds, 550 horses powering all four wheels, and the versatility of seating for four, there truly is so much to love about Nissan’s flagship model.

For more information, or to test drive the 2016 GT-R, contact or visit us at Hall Nissan Virginia Beach.

*2016 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions – use for comparison only.

**Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) excludes destination and handling charges, tax, title, license, and options. Dealer sets actual price.

Image: Nissan