2009 Nissan GT-R First Drive Video

By Edmunds Video Productions | Published October 26, 2009

3:6 min

GT-R First Drive
It�s been six long years since the Nissan GT-R first appeared as a concept at the Tokyo Motor Show. Since then, Nissan has teased us with one prototype after another until this year�s Tokyo show when the production GT-R was revealed for the first time. Now, Nissan is giving us the chance to drive a production spec GT-R at Sendai Highland Raceway north of Tokyo. Cut to predrive presentation, can use of his audio if it�s understandable. Before we strap in, GT-R chief engineer Kazutoshi Mizuno explains some of the GT-R finer details. Then again, with 480 horsepower, all wheel drive, and a six-speed dual clutch automatic transmission � the GT-R doesn�t really need much explanation. From there, we hit the track for a handful of hot laps. We tried to take it easy at first, but it was hard not to dig into the GT-R�s twin turbo V6. We expected at some turbo lag but there�s none, so the GT-R hits full boost as soon as you floor the throttle. It doesn�t sound very good, but we no longer doubt Nissan�s claim that it will do 0-to-60 in 3.5 seconds. Upshifts feel instantaneous, with virtually no drop off in engine speed. Downshifts are equally quick, and throttle blips assure their smoothness. The gearing is short, so we�re into fourth before we hit 100 on the backstraight. Even at those speeds, however, the cabin is surprisingly silent. The giant Brembo brakes bite hard, but are easy to modulate. After getting familiar with Sendai�s twisty layout, we start pushing the GT-R harder in the corners. We�re a little surprised how light it feels given its 3,836 pound curb weight. There�s no play in the steering so even the slightest input generates quick responses. A little midturn throttle is all it takes to get the GT-R turned in tight, while late throttle kicks the tail out. Considering its supercar performance, the GT-R is surprisingly easy to handle at the limit. With our lapping session done, we hit the city streets. In automatic mode, the GT-R does just fine in traffic. The transmission shifts smooth and the engine doesn�t seem to mind lugging along at 20mph. We dial up the softest setting for the adjustable Bilstein dampers, but the ride is still stiff. Aside from those obvious drawbacks, the GT-R is comfortable inside. The cabin is well trimmed, the controls are easy to find and the rear seats are usable in a pinch. There�s even a decent sized trunk. So has Nissan really built a world class supercar that costs just $70,000? It�s not easy to tell after one day behind the wheel, but the GT-R left us with no doubts. It�s not only blindingly fast in a straight line, it�s easy to manage in the corners too. Unlike most supercars, the GT-R doesn�t require a pro to get the best out of it. And when you�re not running full speed, the GT-R is about as practical a supercar as you�re ever going to find. Factor in it�s roughly $70,000 sticker price, and the 2009 Nissan GT-R leaves little room for complaint. The wait was long and the hype unavoidable, but the GT-R comes through in the end and makes good on all its promises.