2009 Nissan GT-R: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Nissan GT-R is this Japanese automaker's new flagship sports car. GT-R is Nissan's most powerful vehicle with a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 480 hp. The engine teams with a 6-speed automatic transmission that is equipped with steering wheel shift paddles for manual operation. GT-R comes in Base and Premium trim levels. All-wheel drive, a sport suspension, and 20-inch wheels with run-flat tires standard on both. Premiums add heated front seats and an uplevel audio system. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. A new Cold Weather Package includes special coolant, run-flat all-season tires, and specific wheels.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Offering more power and style than typical Sporty/Performance vehicles, Premium Sporty/Performance Cars usually cost much more and have more comfort and convenience equipment. Two-passenger convertibles and four-seat coupes rule the roost in this class.

Our Best Buys are the Audi A5 and Chevrolet Corvette. Our Recommended picks are the BMW 1-Series, Jaguar XK Series, Porsche Boxster, and Porsche Cayman.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, Nissan GT-R, and Porsche 911.