Jobaaj Stories
Nissan has officially stopped accepting orders for the GT-R R35 in Japan, marking the end of its 18-year journey. This move signals the final chapter for the iconic sports car, which first debuted in 2007. While production for North America ended in 2024, Japan was the last market to bid farewell to the beloved "Godzilla."
A Farewell Message from Nissan
On February 28, Nissan released a statement confirming the GT-R R35's discontinuation:
“We have received many orders for the Nissan GT-R and have now finished accepting orders for the planned production quantity. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all our customers for their support since its release in 2007.”
This announcement confirms what enthusiasts had long suspected—the 2025 model year will be the final one for this legendary machine.
The Journey of the Nissan GT-R R35
The GT-R R35 has undergone multiple upgrades since its launch, with various performance enhancements and facelifts in 2010, 2016, and most recently, 2023. Despite being a favorite among car enthusiasts, the R35 was gradually phased out in different regions due to regulatory challenges related to emissions, safety, and noise standards.
- Australia & New Zealand: Last GT-Rs delivered in October 2021
- Europe & UK: Production ceased in March 2022
- North America: Production ended in October 2024
Now, Japan—the car’s birthplace—has also closed the order books, making the retirement official.
The Legacy of 'Godzilla' – A True Supercar Killer
The GT-R R35 earned the nickname "Godzilla", thanks to its ability to outperform much more expensive supercars. Initially revealed at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show, it followed two early concept versions from 2001 and 2005.
Throughout its lifespan, the GT-R R35 maintained its legendary twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 engine, constantly evolving in performance:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Its all-wheel-drive system, precise handling, and aggressive styling solidified the GT-R's place as an automotive icon.
What’s Next for the GT-R?
While the R35 is retiring, Nissan is already working on its successor. The next-generation R36 GT-R is expected to feature an electric powertrain, aligning with the industry’s shift towards sustainability.
Nissan’s Hyper Force Concept, unveiled in 2023, is rumored to be the foundation for the upcoming R36. The car is expected to incorporate solid-state battery technology, enhancing performance and efficiency. However, these advanced batteries won't be ready before 2028, meaning fans may have to wait a few years before seeing the next GT-R on the streets.
In the meantime, Nissan could introduce new concept cars, keeping enthusiasts engaged as they prepare for the future of high-performance electric vehicles.
Conclusion
The Nissan GT-R R35's retirement marks the end of a remarkable era for performance car enthusiasts worldwide. While the legendary petrol-powered GT-R may no longer be in production, its spirit will live on in the next generation.
Nissan now faces the challenge of redefining the GT-R legacy in the electric age. Whether the R36 will match the thrill of its predecessor remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the GT-R nameplate is far from dead. 🚗💨
