Same but different: Nissan updates the GT-R NISMO...again
No new GT-R, but more updates for the 2022 NISMO version
Think Nissan’s done with the R35 GT-R and is already working on the next-generation supercar? Well, better think again. The Japanese marque recently revealed the updated 2022 GT-R NISMO. Yes, it looks the same as the model that came before it, but there are a few changes both outside and under the hood.
On the outside, the most obvious change is the new color. Called Stealth Gray, it’s exclusive to the 2022 GT-R NISMO. According to Nissan, the color itself is inspired by the race tracks the GT-R has set various records and competed over its lifespan. Then, there’s the exposed carbon fiber hood. By not painting the hood, it gives the GT-R a more aggressive look. It also helps shed 100 grams off the previous unit.
The 20-inch lightweight forged wheels are the same as the 2020 model, but it now features red accents. This helps match the existing red accents around the GT-R’s body. Though more subtle, the 2022 GT-R NISMO now uses the updated Nissan logo on the trunk lid and the wheel center caps. There’s also newNissan lettering on the Brembo brakes.
Under the hood, the 2022 GT-R NISMO uses the same 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with turbos from Nissan’s GT3-class GTR race car. However, the engine’s internals has been fine-tuned by using high-precision, weight-balanced parts. These include the piston rings, connecting rods, and crankshafts, to name a few. As a result, it delivers snappier revs and faster turbo spooling. Despite the upgrades, the engine continues to produce 600 horsepower and 652 Nm torque.
“The GT-R NISMO has always been an ongoing pursuit of ultimate driving pleasure. We take a holistic approach, seeking precision performance through a meticulous balance of engine components and shaving weight, and incrementally evolving the GT-R’s appearance to deliver the ultimate balance of power, performance, and excitement to our customer,” said Hiroshi Tamura, chief product specialist of the GT-R.
To mark the occasion, Nissan has collaborated with McDonald's for a special edition Happy Meal Toy. The toy in question is a Tomica model of the 2022 GT-R NISMO and is available in two colorways. The first is a standard unit with the new Stealth Gray color. The other, rarer unit is the GT-R NISMO finished in gold. If you happen to be a Tomica collector, this set is a must-buy.
Some of you might say that Nissan didn’t change much on the 2022 model for the GT-R NISMO. And to be honest, you’re not wrong. But then again, why change things if it isn’t broken? The only question now is whether this will be the last update for the R35 GT-R before Nissan introduces the next-generation model.
