Skyline And T-spec Takumi: Nissan GT-R's Final Bow In The US

Nissan's iconic supercar, the R35 GT-R, will soon exit another market as it gradually departs global showrooms. Production for US showrooms will end this October, following the release of two special-edition models. These models bear iconic names and colours. However, production will continue in Japan until August 2025, according to reports.

In the US, the GT-R will bid farewell with two special editions: the Skyline Edition and the T-spec Takumi Edition. Nissan USA stated it is "hyperfocused on the future and the next era of exciting innovation in performance." Fewer than 200 units of these special editions will be available through select dealerships. The exact distribution between the two models remains unclear.

The T-spec Takumi Edition has been offered in Australia before. This edition features Midnight Purple paint, a Mori Green interior, a red engine badge, and a gold VIN plate. It also includes 20-inch Rays forged wheels from the GT-R Nismo, updated Nismo software tuning, wider front wheel arches, and carbon-ceramic Nismo brakes.

Meanwhile, the Skyline Edition comes in Bayside Blue, a colour revived for the 50th Anniversary R35 GT-R in 2019. This shade was last seen in the late 1990s 'R34' Skyline GT-R. The interior is finished in Sora Blue, adding to its nostalgic appeal.

Both special editions are powered by the same 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged 'VR38DETT' petrol V6 engine. This engine is paired with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. These features remain unchanged in the new models.

The T-spec Takumi Edition pays homage to Nissan's Japanese roots. The term "takumi" refers to a master craftsperson. Nissan has four such experts at its Yokohama plant, who oversee the assembly of the twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre V6 GT-R VR38DETT engine. The engine badge in this edition will feature red-etched writing and a gold VIN badge. The car also comes in a striking dark purple with a deep green interior trim.

The Skyline Edition introduces the name of the GT-R's predecessor to the US market for the first time. A blue colour inspired by Japanese skylines decorates the exterior, while the interior is also blue. This colour choice is nostalgic, as the "Bayside Blue" shade was common in earlier models but was retired after the R34-generation GT-R.

The T-spec Takumi Edition will retail for $151,090 USD, while the Skyline Edition will cost $131,090 USD. Both models are expected to arrive in the US this summer. Less than 200 units of each car will be available for this special release.

DriveSpark Thinks

The GT-R, which debuted 17 years ago, has seen several facelifts and limited editions over the years. It was introduced in 2007 as a successor to the Nissan Skyline GT-R, aiming to be a state-of-the-art sports car.

The R35 GT-R's legacy as a high-performance icon will continue to resonate in the automotive world. Its departure from US production opens the door for anticipation of what the next generation will bring.

Nissan's commitment to innovation and performance suggests that the upcoming electric successor will likely push boundaries and redefine expectations in the sports car market. Enthusiasts eagerly await the unveiling of this new chapter in the GT-R's storied history.

As the final R35 GT-Rs roll off the production line, fans are left to cherish the memories and achievements of this legendary model. Looking ahead, the prospect of an electric successor signals a promising evolution in Nissan's performance lineup, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology.

The future of the GT-R appears bright, building upon the foundation set by its predecessors while embracing the challenges and opportunities presented by the automotive industry's shift towards electric powertrains.

Article Published On: Wednesday, June 19, 2024, 16:30 [IST]
Notifications
Settings
Clear Notifications
Notifications
Use the toggle to switch on notifications
  • Block for 8 hours
  • Block for 12 hours
  • Block for 24 hours
  • Don't block
Gender
Select your Gender
  • Male
  • Female
  • Others
Age
Select your Age Range
  • Under 18
  • 18 to 25
  • 26 to 35
  • 36 to 45
  • 45 to 55
  • 55+