Nissan GT-R
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a supercar that redefines what’s possible on four wheels? The Nissan GT-R might be exactly what you’re dreaming of. This Japanese engineering masterpiece delivers hypercar performance at a fraction of the price, proving that you don’t need a European badge to experience mind-bending acceleration and track-ready capability. It’s the car for enthusiasts who want cutting-edge technology wrapped in an unmistakable package.

From the moment you see it, the GT-R commands attention. Its aggressive stance and functional aerodynamics hint at the beast lurking beneath, while rivals like the Porsche 911 or McLaren 570S cost significantly more for similar performance. But the real magic happens when you press the start button. The interior combines Japanese precision with supercar drama, featuring a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and launch control that puts the power down with devastating efficiency.

Driving the GT-R is an unforgettable experience. The twin-turbo V6 engine delivers explosive power that can humble supercars costing twice as much. It handles with surgical precision while remaining surprisingly usable for daily driving. It’s a car that bridges the gap between track weapon and grand tourer. While it comes with higher running costs than conventional sports cars, you’re getting genuine supercar performance that few vehicles can match at any price.

What's the Nissan GT-R Like to Drive?

The Nissan GT-R is designed to be a supercar killer, and it absolutely delivers on that promise. The 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 engine produces between 542 and 600 horsepower depending on the model year and specification. The standard GT-R Premium rockets from 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds, while the NISMO variant can achieve this in an even more explosive 2.5 seconds. This puts it firmly in hypercar territory for acceleration.

Where the GT-R truly excels is in its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and advanced electronics. The ATTESA E-TS system distributes power intelligently between all four wheels, providing incredible traction in all conditions. The adaptive suspension and multiple driving modes transform the character of this sports coupe from comfortable cruiser to track-focused weapon at the touch of a button. The steering is precise and communicative, while the brakes provide immense stopping power with excellent pedal feel. This makes it a confidence-inspiring machine that flatters drivers of all abilities.

Inside the Nissan GT-R: Comfort & Features

Step inside and the GT-R reveals its focused character. The cabin is driver-centric with supportive bucket seats that hold you firmly during spirited driving. The dashboard features multiple screens displaying everything from boost pressure to G-forces, giving you real-time feedback on the car’s performance. The materials are functional rather than luxurious, with carbon fibre accents and Alcantara trim creating a purposeful atmosphere.

The front seats are comfortable for longer journeys, though they’re clearly designed with performance in mind. The infotainment system includes satellite navigation and smartphone connectivity, though it feels dated compared to modern systems. What impresses most is the GT-R’s refinement at cruising speeds. Despite its track-focused nature, it’s surprisingly quiet and civilised on the motorway. The dual-zone climate control and premium audio system make it a viable grand tourer, proving that supercars can be practical too.

The Nissan GT-R is a remarkable achievement that democratizes supercar performance. It successfully delivers world-beating acceleration and handling dynamics at a price point that undercuts European rivals by substantial margins. The advanced all-wheel-drive system and sophisticated electronics make it accessible to drivers who might find other supercars intimidating.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the Nissan GT-R Expensive to Run?

As a high-performance supercar, the GT-R comes with appropriately serious running costs. Fuel economy averages around 23-25 MPG in real-world conditions, which is actually reasonable considering the performance on offer. Insurance will be expensive due to the high performance and specialist nature, typically falling into the highest insurance groups. Service intervals are every 6,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first.

The initial purchase price represents excellent value in supercar terms, with used examples available from around £55,000. This makes it significantly cheaper than European alternatives with similar performance. Regular maintenance can be costly, with services at Nissan High Performance Centres required to maintain warranty coverage. However, the GT-R has proven reliable when properly maintained, and car finance options can help spread the cost of ownership. The strong residual values help offset the higher running costs over time.

Nissan GT-R Practicality & Boot Space

For a supercar, the Nissan GT-R is surprisingly practical. The 315-litre boot is genuinely usable, easily accommodating weekend luggage or a weekly shopping trip. The rear seats exist but are best reserved for children or very short adults on brief journeys. The wide opening doors and relatively low sills make entry and exit easier than in many supercars.

Where the GT-R shows its practicality is in daily usability. Unlike many supercars that feel nervous at low speeds, the GT-R is perfectly comfortable in traffic or urban environments. The all-wheel-drive system provides confidence in poor weather conditions that rear-wheel-drive alternatives can’t match. For those considering other used Nissan cars, the GT-R represents the pinnacle of the brand’s engineering capabilities. Its compact dimensions make parking manageable, while the comfortable ride quality means it won’t punish you on rough roads.

The Nissan GT-R stands as one of the greatest performance bargains in automotive history. It packages world-class acceleration, advanced technology, and track-ready capability into a surprisingly usable package. While it may not have the prestige of European supercars or the most luxurious interior, it excels where it matters most delivering extraordinary performance that punches well above its weight.

You choose the GT-R because you prioritise substance over style and performance over prestige. Its brutal acceleration, sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and everyday usability make it a unique proposition in the supercar world. For enthusiasts seeking maximum thrills per pound, especially with bad credit car finance options making ownership more accessible, the GT-R remains an compelling choice that offers hypercar performance at a fraction of the typical cost.