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'Mo performance: Nissan thrusts 2017 updates upon GT-R Nismo

It's now producing more downforce than any GT-R (or Nissan, for that matter) before it.

Andrew Krok Reviews Editor / Cars
Cars are Andrew's jam, as is strawberry. After spending years as a regular ol' car fanatic, he started working his way through the echelons of the automotive industry, starting out as social-media director of a small European-focused garage outside of Chicago. From there, he moved to the editorial side, penning several written features in Total 911 Magazine before becoming a full-time auto writer, first for a local Chicago outlet and then for CNET Cars.
Andrew Krok
2 min read
Nissan

When Nissan unveiled the refreshed 2017 GT-R at the New York Auto Show earlier this year, we figured it would be only a matter of time before those updates worked their way to the brand's hopped-up variant, the GT-R Nismo. I figured it would take a year, but clearly, I was way off, because it's already here.

The 2017 Nissan GT-R Nismo takes advantage of all the updates given to the standard GT-R, including better aerodynamics, a new front grille and a stiffer overall structure. Adding to that, Nissan's outfitted the Nismo with a fair bit of carbon fiber, even more aggressive aero and new wheels. All in, it's producing more downforce than any Nissan before it.

The chassis also features a few special upgrades. Building upon the 2017 model's improved underpinnings, Nismo engineers tweaked the car's adaptive dampers, springs and sway bars. Nissan claims cornering performance and slalom times are both two percent better than before.

Output is pegged at 600 horsepower and 481 pound-feet of torque, from a 3.8-liter, twin-turbocharged V-6. Power goes from the motor to a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox before being sent to all four wheels.

Inside, the Nismo features the same simplified layout as the standard GT-R. However, unique to the GT-R is the addition of Alcantara suede to the dashboard and steering wheel. There's also a set of exclusive leather Recaro sport seats with red suede inserts. The center console, naturally, retains its carbon-fiber appearance.

There's no word yet on pricing or launch dates, but for context, the 2016 Nismo retailed for about $150,000.

Nissan freshens up the GT-R Nismo for 2017 (pictures)

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Watch this: Nissan refreshes the GT-R with more power, improved aero