The Nissan GT-R is a big and brutal machine that gives buyers a lot of bang for their buck. Introduced to North America in 2009, it arrived at a time when only exotic supercars could hit 100 km/h in just over three seconds. Instead, here was a menacing-looking Nissan coupe that could do the same for about a tenth of the price.
While the GT-R was a standalone model, it was a successor to the three generations of Skyline GT-R models that Nissan sold in other markets from 1989 to 2002. The single generation of the GT-R was sold here between the 2009 and 2024 model years. Power and aerodynamics improved over that time, but any GT-R will feel much the same to drive. Even today, the awe-inspiring performance and rarity of these largely hand-built sports cars are impressive. That, along with its comparative rarity, means the GT-R is a collectible car that still commands high prices.
Our buying guide looks at how the Nissan GT-R evolved over the course of its single generation with details of what to look out for and the best and worst versions to buy.
Nissan GT-R Buying Guide: Cost, Reliability, and the Best Years to Buy
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Nissan GT-R years are the best?
A GT-R from the 2012 model year onward is a better choice than earlier models since these versions feature key transmission and software improvements. Prices are high, but depreciation is minimal.
Which Nissan GT-R years are the worst?
The first several model years of the GT-R are the worst for reliability as transmission failures were common. Owners sued Nissan in a class-action lawsuit in which the automaker agreed to compensate for repairs. Without evidence of a transmission replacement and a software update, buyers could be on the hook for $20,000 or more in potential replacement costs
Is a used Nissan GT-R a good deal?
We can’t exactly describe the GT-R as a good deal because prices are high considering its age. The GT-R is a collectible car, though, and even 15-year-old vehicles with more than 100,000 kilometres can command $80,000 or more in Canada. As a long-term investment, then, a GT-R can be a solid choice.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful engine
- Fun to drive
- Standard all-wheel drive
Cons:
- Irritating transmission
- Outdated technology
- Poor value for money
Nissan GT-R Generations
Nissan GT-R First Generation (2009-2024)
The GT-R is the king of all Nissan models, developed entirely on its own chassis by a dedicated group of racing engineers. There is no other Nissan, not even the Z, that approaches its stupendous levels of technology and performance.
Compared to the Japanese-market Skyline GT-R that it replaced, the 2009 GT-R was massive in both weight and body size. It is a large coupe with wide and swelling fenders, a long hood, and a large trunk that can fit two golf bags. Its kinked roofline leaves just enough space for two small people in the back. It weighed around 1,770 kilograms (3,900 pounds) and utilized a twin-turbo 3.8-litre V6, all-wheel drive (AWD), and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Nothing, however, was conventional about these parts. The V6 made 480 horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque, though most enthusiasts agree this was purposely understated. The engine used plasma coating for the cylinder walls, and the AWD system (known as ATTESA-ETS) could mechanically vary torque on either side of the rear axle — something Porsche has still never done on the 911.
With adaptive dampers, one of the most brutal launch controls ever invented, and superb aerodynamics, the GT-R was impeccable on the track. The performance and handling were a match for any number of other supercars that retailed for double, triple, or quadruple its price, even though the GT-R’s crested six digits in Canada in most model years.
When driven like a road car, the GT-R was a fine grand tourer capable of transporting two adults in complete comfort over long distances. The interior, while austere, featured digital graphics designed by Polyphony Digital, the video game producer behind the Gran Turismo series (which, in turn, helped the GT-R gain popularity in North America for more than a decade before it arrived).
Fuel economy was adequate, too, with Natural Resources Canada-estimated ratings of between 12.6 and 13.6 litres per 100 kilometres combined depending on model year. Leather upholstery and all the usual power amenities were standard. Safety features included dual front, side, and curtain airbags along with seat belt pre-tensioners and load limiters for driver and passenger. Stability control, a GT-R hallmark in its precise operation, was standard.
A single trim was offered in Canada with power-adjustable heated front seats, an 11-speaker Bose stereo, Bluetooth, keyless entry and push-button start, and black wheels.
For 2010, following a class-action lawsuit, Nissan updated the transmission control module. The engine received a 5-hp increase, while the brake lines for the 15-inch front discs were more rigid.
For 2011, automatic headlights, DVD playability, and a USB/iPod port were added along with tweaks to the suspension.
In the 2012 model year, power output was boosted to 530 hp and torque increased to 448 lb-ft thanks to changes in boost pressure, valve timing, and the air intake diameter. Larger grille slots gave improved cooling and efficiency, which also improved fuel economy from 13.6 to 13.0 L/100 km combined. The xenon headlights were swapped for LEDs. Carbon-fibre trim was added to the cabin, while a Black Edition trim featured red and black Recaro seats.
More engine tuning led to a rating of 545 hp and 463 lb-ft for the 2013 model year, and a rear-view camera was newly standard.
A Track Edition, limited to 150 cars, was available for 2014. It featured only two seats, a retuned suspension, improved throttle response at high revs, and special aero parts such as a front spoiler with carbon ducting. This version was not sold in Canada, but you may find U.S. imports on the used vehicle market. In addition, red semi-aniline leather was a new option as part of the Premium Interior Package.
The GT-R NISMO debuted for 2016 with 600 hp, an aggressive body kit, and a Canadian price of about $180,000. Many other suspension and chassis upgrades were part of the deal. A 45th Anniversary Gold Edition, also not sold in Canada, came out for 2016 with Silica Brass paint inspired by the 2001 Skyline GT-R M-Spec.
An exterior refresh for 2017 brought Nissan's "V-motion" grille, a new hood, a new front bumper, and a new rear bumper that included side vents. The revised engine made 565 hp and 467 lb-ft of torque.
A Track Edition appeared in Canada for 2018. There were no further changes until 2020, when a 50th Anniversary Edition was launched with three two-tone paint options and a grey interior. The Track Edition brought new turbos, lower weight, and other minor performance improvements.
There were no changes until 2024, the final model year, which introduced the T-spec trim with carbon ceramic brakes from the NISMO, wider front fenders, gold Rays wheels, two classic GT-R paint options, and Mori Green leather. The bumper and grille also received another refresh with new shapes and auxiliary lighting.
Base prices for the 2024 GT-R in Canada ranged from nearly $140,000 to almost $300,000 for the final edition of the GT-R NISMO. CarGurus.ca pricing data shows that the GT-R is one of the few cars that is barely affected by depreciation. Prices for the earliest models, even with well over 100,000 kilometres on the odometer, start at about $80,000, while late-model low-kilometre cars go for well over $200,000.
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