2009 Nissan GT-R to get 5-hp bump and tweaks in Japan

The Nissan GT-R will benefit from a few engineering and cosmetic tweaks for the 2009 model year in Japan, beginning with a slight bump in performance that brings output up from 480 to 485 PS (just under five hp). Other modifications include a larger fuel tank - expanded from 71 liters to 73.8 liters - a slight increase in fuel economy (about .3 km/l), "Nissan" replacing "Brembo" on the brake calipers, a new mounting location for the front license plate and a new paint code for Storm White (changed fro QX1 to QAB).
Pricing will also increase by another 5% in 2009 and it's expected that most of these changes will be adopted on U.S.-spec vehicles when the "Series II" production run begins next year.

Race Across Japan: Nissan GT-R vs Bullet Train

Surly the Nissan GT-R is fast but is it fast enough for Jeremy Clarkson to beat Richard Hammond and James May in a bullet train? Find out.. view the two parts to this exclusive Top Gear episode and find out if a Nissan GT-R really can beat a bullet train across Japan.

Nissan GT-R Launch Control Reprogram Clarification from Nissan

Recently InsideLine reported that Nissan begun implementing a software change on new GT-R’s awaiting delivery and delivering a message to current owners to bring their vehicles in for reprogramming. The new reprogram modification would have “acceleration similar to that with the current launch control,” and will do this without disabling the VDC – Vehicle Dynamic Control. It will have a “launch mode” that reduces the launch rev to around 3,000 to 3,500 rpm. This will supposedly reduce stress on the drivetrain where the new program mapping will engage the clutch in “softer” manor. Also stated by Nissan is that all GT-R’s sold from now and into the future will have this new programming.

The situation, “…had been blown way out of proportion” says Scott Vazin, Nissan North America’s chief of product public relations. That’s pretty obvious by the famous Hitler Broke His GT-R video that we posted a few weeks ago.

Nissan is committed to the warranty claim when VDC is disabled. Simply put, it will still void your warranty unless it is being used to free the vehicle from being stuck in mud or snow. Yea, I’m going to jump in my GT-R today and go mudding and while I am at it I’m going to watch Fast and the Furious Tokyo Drift to learn how to drift and then… I will hit the snow fields with VDC off so I can show these clowns how you drift and hold a deep conversation at the same time.

[source: InsideLine]

Below is the dealer directive in regards to the new programming: What a Load!

Nissan has enhanced the Model Year (MY) 2009 GT-R by incorporating new MY 2010 programming that will optimize clutch engagement control for improved drivability. This upgrade also improves vehicle acceleration with the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) ON/activated.

Nissan will provide this MY 2010 specification upgrade to MY 2009 GT-R owners at no additional cost. Nissan has already incorporated this programming into the GT-R vehicles in its U.S. inventory and will resume shipping of those vehicles to dealers. We will advise you soon on how to install this new program into all MY 2009 GT-Rs (see below).

The GT-R will continue to offer supercar characteristics of exceptional handling, maneuvering and overall driving experience. This upgrade provides the consumer improved drivability and enhanced acceleration performance with VDC ON (as required by the warranty). Standing acceleration capability with VDC ON (VDC-R mode) will improve compared to the original model year 2009 performance while such acceleration with VDC OFF will be moderated. Customers should be reminded to drive safely and obey all traffic laws. [Please note independent media reports of 0-60 drive times with VDC OFF (or what the media call "Launch Control") on closed courses with professional drivers will likely increase after this change.]

The GT-R Owner’s Manual expressly warns against driving with the VDC OFF (except to free the vehicle when stuck in mud or snow) to avoid damage. Repeated acceleration launches with VDC OFF have resulted in some reported instances of damage to the transaxle. Repairs for damage caused by driving with VDC OFF are expressly excluded under the terms of the Nissan GT-R New Car Limited Warranty. Except when stuck, there is no reason to drive with VDC OFF.

This change was initially implemented with the start of MY 2010 GT-R production and has been completed for all 2009 GT-Rs still in NNA inventory… In a few weeks, you will receive the Technical Service Bulletin explaining how to implement this specification change for all remaining 2009 GT-Rs…

Attached is a REVISED Customer Disclosure Form With Modification Notice, which must be used with all customers who buy or take delivery of a MY 2009 GT-R.

2011 Nissan GT-R Spec V - Official Photos and Info

As the hype surrounding Nissan’s GT-R sports car has tapered off somewhat, the company plans to keep the buzz fresh by unleashing a higher-performance Spec V model on the Japanese market early next month. Based on the standard 480-hp car, which is no slouch for a vehicle topping 3900 pounds, the Spec V is lighter and more track-focused, yet does without much additional gusto under the hood.

Available only in black and with two seats (lighter carbon-fiber Recaros), the GT-R Spec V gets down to fighting weight through the use of carbon fiber for the grille, brake ducts, and rear spoiler, as well as on the center console, instrument panel, and other interior areas. Also featured are standard carbon-ceramic brakes and lightweight forged aluminum wheels (offered through NISMO since last fall), both of which should improve responsiveness by reducing unsprung mass at each corner. Overall, we expect the reduction in flab to total at least 200 pounds.

Keep Reading: 2011 Nissan GT-R Spec V - Official Photos and Info

The All New ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition Limited Edition Supercar In-Depth (only 8 built)

World Premiere at “Tokyo AutoSalon 2009 with NAPAC”
The All New ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition Limited Edition Supercar

The exclusive Japanese Nissan tuner, Zele International Limited, intensifies the flame and presents the special edition Supercar, limited to just eight units, the ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition.
Zele International Limited will start taking order for ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition globally from 30th March 2009.
These specially built eight ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Editions will be covered by Zele Performance World Warranty.

1. Key Factors
Performance
Following the launch of the new generation supercar, the Nissan GT-R, at Tokyo Motor Show in October 2007, Zele International Limited has used its experience and knowledge from research and development on the road and track, to create the ultimate production car. To optimize the power-to-weight ratio, power delivery and handling, Zele International modified the GT-R’s engine, engine management system, suspension and aerodynamics.
ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition’s brain, the “FZ-ROM Type 3 ECU” increases engine power output to 550ps.
Titanium is used extensively in the exhaust system, and offers the benefits of weight saving, heat proofing and an exciting exhaust note.
Oil temperature management is also important to optimize the performance and as such, a rear differential oil cooler is fitted.
All of these modifications have improved the standard GT-R’s weak points and thus enhance the overall performance.

Aerodynamics
In order to optimize the GT-R’s power-to-weight ratio, Zele International Limited makes extensive use of carbon fiber. Dry carbon fiber is used for the roof, the front bumper, the rear spoiler and the side rear view mirrors. Further to this carbon fiber is used for front lip spoiler, side skirts, NACA hood air ducts, rear under spoiler and so on.

Handling
To optimize the handling for the ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition, Zele International Limited developed a height adjustable (HA) Conversion Kit that gives added features to the GT-R’s standard Bilstein shock absorbers. Using the Zele HA Conversion Kit, it’s possible to adjust the vehicle ride height as desired while retaining the standard Bilstein Damptronic System electronically adjustable damper functionality.
To enhance the GT-R’s considerable stopping power, Zele Sports Brake Pads are fitted to the standard Brembo aluminum brake calipers.
The wheels on ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition are Zele original RAYS 20 inch forged alloy wheels. Customers are given the choice of either GramLights R57GT or the new Volk Racing TE37 G2.

Interior
Holding you in place during high “G” cornering are a pair of Alcantara trimmed RECARO full bucket seats.

Design
ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition offers an outstanding look with ZELE’s award-winning premium bodykit and Customized Paint Program which can be ordered in any color you choose.
At the SEMA Show 2008 in Las Vegas, U.S.A., ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition Proto was ranked as one of the top 13 cars by Mothers taking away the Mothers Choice trophy for design excellence.

2. Specifications and Equipments

Base
NISSAN GT-R (R35) US-spec or EU-spec (LHD)

Equipment
Exterior ZELE Customized Paint Program *1 *2
ZELE Dry Carbon Fiber Front Bumper *1
ZELE Dry Carbon Fiber Side Mirrors *1
ZELE Dry Carbon Fiber Roof *1
ZELE Dry Carbon Fiber Rear Spoiler *1
ZELE Carbon Fiber Side Skirts
ZELE Carbon Fiber Rear Under Spoiler
ZELE Carbon Fiber NACA Bonnet Air Ducts
ZELE Carbon Fiber Front Lip Spoiler
ZELE Carbon Fiber Front Fender Air Ducts
ZELE Dry Carbon Fiber Front Grill
ZELE Dry Carbon Fiber Intake Cover
ZELE Dry Carbon Fiber Radiator Shroud
ZELE Titanium Engine Hood Support Bar
Performance ZELE FZ-ROM ECU Type3 (Maximum Output 550ps) *1
ZELE Titanium Front-Mid Straight Pipe
ZELE Titanium Exhaust Muffler Type2 or Type3 *3
ZELE Rear Differential Oil Cooler Type2 *3
ZELE Original RAYS Gram Lights R57GT 20” Forged Aluminum Wheels
ZELE Original RAYS Volk Racing TE37 G2 20” Forged Aluminum Wheels *2
ZELE Height Adjustable Suspension Conversion Kit *4
RECARO Full Bucket Seats TS-G Alcantara
ZELE Sport Brake Pads

*1 Exclusively available for ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition
*2 Optional for ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition
*3 Rear Differential Oil Cooler available only when Titanium Muffler Type1 is ordered.
*4 The kit converts the standard Bilstein shock absorber to height adjustable suspension.

3. Exclusive Equipments for ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition

FZ-ROM ECU Type3
The brain for the ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition manages a significant maximum output increase to 550ps.

ZELE Dry Carbon Fiber Roof
The dry carbon fiber roof is as strong as a steel roof, yet weighs far less. It reduces weight from the highest point of the vehicle, lowering the center of gravity and reducing yaw during cornering.
The original steel roof is replaced with the dry carbon fiber one using the same adhesive used for SUPER GT race cars.

ZELE Dry Carbon Fiber Rear Spoiler
Using dry carbon fiber reduces the weight above the trunk lid significantly. The shape is optimized to produce more downforce with the Zele full bodykit. It allows ideal power delivery with less drag.

ZELE Dry Carbon Fiber Front Bumper
Using dry carbon fiber as the material, it reduces the overhang weight significantly. Weight reduction in this area provides better cornering. The design is the same as the standard award-winning Zele Front Aero Bumper.

ZELE Customized Paint Program
In ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition, there are no compromises. Customers with a particular color in mind will find Zele International Limited can mix the exact water-based metallic or pearl-effect shade desired.

4. Warranty
ZELE Performance Worldwide Warranty
The ZELE R35 GT-R Complete Edition is covered by Zele Performance Worldwide Warranty.
The Zele Performance Worldwide Warranty is a one year or 20,000km limited warranty with conditions based on the Nissan High Performance Center’s general warranty conditions.

5. Price
From 18,880,000 Japanese Yen*
* Net price. Total price varies with the base car and options order.

6. Delivery Date
On sale: 30th March 2009.
Delivery: Estimated lead time is around 90 to 180 days, and may vary depending on availability of the base car.

7. Production Number
Limited production of eight units.

8. World Premiere
ZELE booth at Tokyo AutoSalon 2009 with NAPAC
Makuhari Messe (Japan Convention Center)
Press Presentation: 9:00-18:00, 9th January 2009
General Opening: 9:00-18:00, 10th January 2009
9:00-17:00, 11th January 2009

Zele Nissan GT-R "Complete Edition" Obliterates Price Tag At $205,000

The tuner world's quest to modify every Nissan GT-R ever built continues as Zele International announces the introduction of their R35 GT-R ‘Complete Edition,' which comes in at an eye-watering, SpecV-crushing $205,000.

So what do you get for the cost of a Nissan GT-R SpecV and a base model Corvette? Well, first off, you get exclusivity; Only eight of these cars will actually be delivered complete, though customers will be able to build their own by purchasing the components separately. Those upgrades include a custom paintjob, Recaro seats, complete carbon fiber body kit, a carbon fiber roof, carbon fiber intake cover, and carbon fiber radiator shroud. As to anything that actually makes it a faster car, it gets a titanium exhaust, rear differential cooler, a height adjustable suspension, upgraded brakes and an ECU reflash good for a bump up to 550 HP.

So is that good enough to command that kind of price? One word: Crackpipe.

[via Motor Authority]

2010 Nissan GT-R Spec V Revealed by Nissan

Nissan has revealed its new limited production Spec V model of the Nissan GT-R. A lot of people speculated this newer version of the GT-R to take the already great performance to an even higher level. Although the specifics on power output and the weight savings have yet to be determined it would be safe to say that the Spec V GT-R will be more powerful and lighter than the normal GT-R which is clearly obvious by the multiple images below.

The Black Opal paint job is truly stunning and I am sure in person it is even better. Complete with Recaro seats, carbon ceramic brakes, lighter weight 20 inch wheels and new reworked suspension, the GT-R Spec V WILL have a leading edge over the current GT-R.

The GT-R Spec V is expected to be sold in Japan first at 7 pre-selected dealerships. Word on whether the Spec V will make it to the U.S. is still unclear but we will keep our hopes up and let you know as soon as we find out for sure.

Nissan GT-R SpecV Finally Unveiled!

Nissan has finally unveiled the GT-R SpecV after months of speculation.

The special edition GT-R SpecV features a carbon fiber rear spoiler, a carbon fiber grille, and carbon fiber brake ducts. The SpecV is available exclusively in Ultimate Black Opal (RP) body color and the inside features a unique two-seat interior that has Recaro carbon fiber bucket seats.

There is only one main engine modification, a new high gear boost controller that increases the amount of compressed oxygen entering the twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 to deliver more torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges.

Sales begin in Japan at seven pre-selected dealers, with pricing set at 15,750,000 yen. There is no word yet on if the car is headed to our shores.

Nissan GT-R Spec V Pictures

Well it’s about time!!! Early this morning in Tokyo, Nissan dropped the press bomb release which include these photos of their $160,000 USD Nissan GT-R Spec V!!

The GT-R Spec V exterior features a carbon fiber rear spoiler, fiber grille, carbon fiber brake ducts, carbon fiber insets on rear center storage box and instrument panel. It will be available exclusively in Ultimate Black Opal color.

Other modifications include a titanium-coated exhaust system, carbon-ceramic brakes, lightweight NISMO GT-R racing wheels that were developed for this model and have been sold by Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO) Parts since September 2008.

PRESS RELEASE - TOKYO (Jan. 8, 2009)
Nissan Announces New GT-R SpecV Model

TOKYO (Jan. 8, 2009) — Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced a new limited-production Nissan GT-R SpecV model, which goes on sale at seven specially selected Nissan dealers throughout Japan on February 2, 2009. The GT-R SpecV is targeted specifically at enthusiast drivers who desire race car-level performance in a street-legal vehicle.

Developed around the multi-dimensional Nissan GT-R sports car, introduced just more than one year ago to universal global acclaim, the new SpecV model builds on the original’s “ultimate supercar that anyone can enjoy driving anywhere, at anytime” philosophy - taking it to an entirely new level of “oneness between man and machine.” The SpecV model includes unique body, interior and performance equipment and modifications, raising the GT-R’s unmatched performance to even higher levels.

The GT-R SpecV’s new exterior features include a carbon fiber rear spoiler, a carbon fiber grille, and carbon fiber brake ducts. The SpecV is available exclusively in Ultimate Black Opal (RP) body color. Inside, the SpecV’s unique two-seat interior (non-SpecV GT-R models also include a two-place rear seat) offers special Recaro carbon fiber bucket seats, while carbon fiber insets embellish the rear center storage box, instrument panel and other trim areas.

Performance is enhanced with a new high gear boost control device, which momentarily increases boost of the engine’s twin turbochargers for greater torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges to provide a more powerful feeling of acceleration, while also allowing the engine to operate at a lower speed for improved fuel economy. Other modifications include a titanium-coated exhaust system and carbon-ceramic brakes that provide powerful stopping performance.

The GT-R SpecV is also equipped with lightweight, racing-style forged aluminum wheels that were developed for this model and have been sold by Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO) since September 2008. The lighter unsprung weight provided by the new wheels, together with the enhanced braking capability, an exclusive suspension and high-grip tires, combine to deliver the SpecV’s exceptional performance.

The SpecV will be sold at the following seven dealer outlets, each of which is staffed by mechanics with special GT-R SpecV training and who are knowledgeable of racing circuit driving.

Dealer outlets selling the SpecV
Ibaraki Nissan Sales Co., Ltd. Mito Sennami Outlet
Nissan Prince Tokyo Sales Co., Ltd. Kamedo Outlet
Nissan Prince Nagoya Sales Co., Ltd. Fukiage Outlet
Nissan Prince Osaka Sales Co., Ltd. Horie Kawaguchi Outlet
Nissan Prince Hyogo Sales Co., Ltd. Nada Outlet
Nissan Prince Kagawa Sales Co., Ltd. Takamatsu Outlet
Yamaguchi Nissan Sales Co., Ltd. Ogori Interchange Outlet

Suggested nationwide retail price (including consumption tax) 15,750,000 yen