2012 Nissan GT-R (photos)
The GT-R is a phenomenal sports car, getting from zero to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds with a V-6 under the hood. Of course, that V-6 uses twin turbos, and the car's launch control keeps its wheels gripping under heavy acceleration.
Nissan had no qualms about using tech to gain performance when it launched this generation of GT-R in 2007. For the 2012 model year, Nissan made a number of improvements, such as upping the horsepower and tuning the launch control system.
Every line and vent on the body is functional, but Nissan figured the GT-R badges wouldn't add too much weight or drag.
The design changed little for the 2012 model year, although the air intakes are bigger.
The engine is a work of art, hand-built by Nissan engineers. It uses twin turbos to generate 530 horsepower from its six cylinders.
The GT-R has comfortable sport seats for the front passengers with high bolsters to keep you planted. The rear seats are much smaller, but usable.
The door handles lie flush with the body, decreasing drag.
The GT-R's Brembo brakes offer excellent modulation. Never grabby, it is easy to apply partial braking to shave off some speed.
The electronically controlled suspension has three settings, but even in Comfort mode is never soft.
There is a decent amount of room in the trunk, although the opening to it is on the small side.
The cabin of the GT-R does not exude luxury, but has some nice materials.
The GT-R's handling is beyond excellent. It stays steady in the sharpest curves.
The six speed dual clutch transmission is a miracle of modern technology, shifting with no lag whatsoever.
The performance computer and navigation system come standard with the GT-R.
Like any dedicated sports car, the tachometer is front and center. The speedometer, off to the left, goes up to 220 mph.
The audio controls and voice command button are surprisingly civilized on such a powerful car.
These three switches let you put the transmission, suspension, and traction control in Race mode.
The performance computer has seven preset and four custom views, which let you monitor every aspect of the GT-R.
The navigation system is good, with maps stored on hard drive, but we would like to see more topographical details, which would be useful when driving mountain roads.
The phone system integrates Bluetooth phones, making contact lists available through voice command and on-screen.
The iPod integration can show album art in the interface.
Typical for iPod integration is this music library view.
The Bose audio system has 11 speakers, including these two subwoofers between the rear seats.
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