2010 Nissan GT-R: Road Test

2010 Nissan GT-R 

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  • MSRP: $80,790 - $83,040
  • Invoice: $76,033 - $78,149

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Our road test for the 2010 Nissan GT-R includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Nissan GT-R from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Nissan GT-R, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Nissan GT-R help you decide if a 2010 Nissan GT-R is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

Premium Class Average
10 6.9

GT-R is decently strong from a standstill, but quickly explodes into warp drive once the turbos kick in. Full-throttle downshifts take a moment to execute, but once they do, passing power is likewise stunning. The dual-clutch transmission can be a bit quirky in normal driving, but in general it upshifts quickly with light-throttle use, and can be in 6th gear by 30 mph. Gear changes and downshifts can be slower than expected, particularly under heavy throttle. The lack of a manual shift gate for the console-mounted lever is puzzling, but the steering wheel paddles make up for this somewhat. In city traffic, the GT-R is reasonably well behaved, but this Nissan isn't as docile as some other all-out performance rivals.

FUEL ECONOMY

Premium Class Average
5 3.6

In Consumer Guide testing, we averaged 18.3 mpg in mixed city and highway driving. GT-R requires premium-grade gas.

RIDE QUALITY

Premium Class Average
2 3.5

The GT-R's ride can be stiff and bone jarring, but some testers think the ride is class competitive when the adjustable suspension is set in "comfort" mode.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

Premium Class Average
10 7.2

GT-R corners with little, if any, body lean especially at speeds suitable for public roads. The steering is well weighted, but demands near-constant attention because the tires tend to follow road grooves. The brakes are strong, but don't have the instant-on response of other high-performance competitors.

QUIETNESS

Premium Class Average
3 3.6

Tire and bump noise are apparent at most any speed, but highway cruising produces minimal wind rush. Some testers find the engine and exhaust note too well muted, lacking the sporty tone of most competitors.

CONTROLS

Premium Class Average
7 4.7

GT-R's numerous buttons and driver selectable displays will require familiarization, but the basic controls are well marked, easy to reach, and simple enough to use.

DETAILS

Premium Class Average
8 6.1

Nicely detailed interior boasts premium-level materials and exhibits fine assembly quality.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

Premium Class Average
5 4.9

The cockpit-like interior is generally comfortable and not confining. The tilt and telescopic steering wheel uses a cumbersome two-level manual system for adjustment. Larger drivers will likely find the seat's bolsters mildly constraining.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

Premium Class Average
1 .6

Legroom is nearly non-existent even behind an average-size driver. In reality, the rear seat area is more suited for carrying a couple small parcels, rather than people.

CARGO ROOM

Premium Class Average
2 2.1

The GT-R's trunk is of reasonable size and should provide enough room for a weekend's worth of luggage. The trunk lid uses non-intrusive strut-type hinges, and opens to reveal a large portal, but the liftover is very high.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Premium Class Average
7 4.7

Quirkier than most rivals, the all-wheel-drive Nissan GT-R offers impressive acceleration, a comfortable and well-appointed interior, and decent luggage space. Recent, and rather steep, price hikes have blunted its value a bit. But for those who prefer an automatic transmission--and can accept one that isn't particularly well behaved in everyday driving--GT-R is an exotic performance car that still isn't quite priced like one.

Total Score

Premium Class Average
60 47.9

Total Score: 60

Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars

Low Score
37
Average Score
47
High Score
69

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