Final Nissan GT-R R35 Rolls Off the Line After 18 Years: A New Era Awaits

The Nissan GT-R R35, one of the most iconic sports cars of the 21st century, has officially completed its production journey. The final unit of the R35 rolled off the line at Nissan’s Tochigi plant in Japan, marking the end of an 18-year production run that saw nearly 48,000 units built worldwide. For enthusiasts and collectors, this moment closes a remarkable chapter in Nissan’s performance history but not without the promise of a new beginning.

The Legacy of the Nissan GT-R R35

Launched as a concept at the 2001 Tokyo Motor Show and unveiled in production form in 2007, the GT-R R35 quickly became a game-changer. It was hailed as a supercar killer, delivering Ferrari and Porsche-rivalling performance at a fraction of the price.

Sales began in Japan before spreading to North America, Europe, and Australia. Over time, due to stricter emission regulations, markets outside Japan saw the GT-R discontinued earlier, with Japan remaining the final market until 2025.

Quick Summary

Power and Performance: The Heart of the R35

At its launch, the GT-R R35 featured a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 473 bhp. Over the years, continuous refinements pushed performance even further.

• Standard Output (Final Models): 565 bhp
• GT-R Nismo Edition: 600 bhp
• Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox
• Drivetrain: ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system for exceptional grip and stability

This powertrain combination allowed the GT-R to accelerate with supercar pace while maintaining daily usability, a defining trait that made it beloved worldwide.

Motorsport Success

The Nissan GT-R R35 not only conquered roads but also achieved remarkable motorsport success:

• Super GT Series:
  • 5 GT500 championships
  • 3 GT300 titles
• Endurance Racing:
  • Victory at the 2015 Bathurst 12 Hours in Australia
• Nürburgring Performance:
  • The GT-R Nismo clocked a blistering lap time of 7 minutes 8.679 seconds, cementing its reputation among the fastest production cars of its time.
• World Records:
  • In 2016, a modified R35 set a Guinness World Record for the fastest drift, reaching an astonishing 304.96 km/h sideways.

Special Editions and Upgrades

Throughout its life, Nissan introduced multiple versions of the R35 to keep it competitive and exciting:

• 2013 GT-R Nismo – More power, advanced aerodynamics, and motorsport-inspired tuning.
• Anniversary Editions – Marking key production milestones and celebrating the GT-R legacy.
• Continuous Updates – Focused on handling, aerodynamics, and driver assistance technologies.

This consistent evolution ensured that the R35 remained relevant, even as newer rivals entered the sports car segment.

The End of an Era

With around 48,000 units sold globally, the R35 GT-R has carved a permanent place in automotive history. Its blend of brutal performance, technological innovation, and affordability compared to rivals ensured it remained popular among enthusiasts.

However, stricter global emission and noise regulations eventually caught up with the R35. Sales ended years earlier in markets like North America, Europe, and Australia, while Japan was the final stronghold until production ceased in 2025.

What’s Next for the GT-R?

The story of the GT-R doesn’t end with the R35. Nissan has already confirmed that a next-generation GT-R is under development.

• Nissan’s CEO, Ivan Espinosa, highlighted that the GT-R badge represents more than just a car—it is a symbol of innovation, racing heritage, and performance excellence.
• While exact details remain under wraps, the next GT-R is expected to embrace electrification, possibly arriving as a hybrid or fully electric performance machine.
• The promise is clear: the GT-R name will live on, with a future model carrying its spirit of speed and precision into the new automotive era.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When did the Nissan GT-R R35 first go into production?

The GT-R R35 was unveiled in 2007 at the Tokyo Motor Show, with production starting soon after.

Q2: How many Nissan GT-R R35 units were produced?

Approximately 48,000 units were produced globally during its 18-year run.

Q3: What engine powers the Nissan GT-R R35?

It uses a 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6, producing between 473 bhp and 600 bhp depending on the model.

Q4: What are some of the GT-R’s major motorsport achievements?

The R35 won five GT500 championships, three GT300 titles, and the 2015 Bathurst 12 Hours, along with setting a Nürburgring lap record and a Guinness World Record drift.

Q5: Will there be a new Nissan GT-R after the R35?

Yes, Nissan has confirmed a next-generation GT-R is in development, expected to feature hybrid or electric powertrains.

For More Information Click HERE