Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
Combined, EPA 2024
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
The sentiment from the community is one of high performance respect with significant concerns regarding cost and technological evolution.
2 problems reported (2 recurrent) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentHigh maintenance and repair costs
Frequently cited as a major ownership drawback, with costs described as "a ton.".
- RecurrentDated technology
The all-wheel-drive system is noted as being unable to send more than 50% power to the front or split torque front-to-rear, and the transmission shifts slower than modern counterparts, making the platform less competitive for a next-generation vehicle.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to identify a consensus "best" model year or trim (e.g., NISMO vs. Premium). Owner discussions reference various model years (e.g., 2017, 2020 NISMO) but without comparative analysis of differences.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Acura NSX, Porsche 911 Turbo, Porsche 911 GT2, Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR.
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Overall sentiment
The sentiment from the community is one of high performance respect with significant concerns regarding cost and technological evolution. The R35 GT-R is consistently praised for its exceptional track performance, particularly its stability at high speeds and its ability to compete with or outperform vehicles costing significantly more, such as the Bugatti Veyron on circuits like the Nürburgring. It is recognized as a technological marvel upon its release, offering supercar-level acceleration and handling at a comparatively accessible price point. However, recurring criticisms focus on the high cost of maintenance and repairs, the perception that its all-wheel-drive system and transmission technology have become dated compared to newer competitors, and concerns that its platform is no longer the cutting-edge benchmark it once was. The vehicle is also noted for its raw, mechanical, and aggressive driving character compared to more refined or exotic alternatives.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a performance bargain that democratized supercar-level track times, famously challenging vehicles like the Bugatti Veyron on technical circuits despite a massive price disparity. It is frequently compared directly with the Acura NSX, with the GT-R characterized as more raw, mechanical, aggressive, and practical, while the NSX is seen as more comfortable, tech-oriented, and exotic. Compared to contemporary German and American performance cars (e.g., Porsche 911 Turbo, Corvette Z06), it was often noted for its superior all-weather capability and ease of driving fast, though some reviews later criticized it for lacking "soul" or being too easy to drive. There is a consensus that while the R35 was groundbreaking, its core technology (AWD system, transmission) is now considered previous-generation compared to systems in newer supercars and high-performance hybrids.
Recommended configurations
Insufficient owner data available. No specific configurations (transmission, trim, options) are recommended or criticized within the provided data.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers prioritizing ultimate track-focused performance and mechanical feedback over luxury refinement or cutting-edge hybrid technology. Potential buyers should be prepared for high maintenance and repair costs, which are frequently mentioned as a significant ownership consideration. It is recommended for those who appreciate its raw character and legendary performance heritage. It may not be recommended for buyers seeking the latest technology, the most luxurious interior, or the lowest cost of ownership in the supercar segment. Strongly advised to verify the legality of specific models (e.g., R32, R33, R34 Skyline GT-R) for import and registration in one's region, as this is a noted point of complexity.
Remarks
The provided data spans a very long period (2012-2026) and covers the R35 generation almost exclusively, with only passing historical references to the R32-R34 Skyline GT-R models. Much of the discussion is comparative or historical, with limited detailed accounts of long-term daily ownership experiences, reliability, or common failure modes. The high-performance reputation is well-established, but detailed operational feedback is sparse. The future of the model line is questioned, with speculation that a potential R36 successor would be prohibitively expensive, possibly leading Nissan to discontinue the GT-R altogether. Analysis based on approximately 60 substantive owner discussions and references.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2009. Years to avoid: 2010, 2009Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Nissan GT-R years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 1 | 0 | engine |
| 2013 | 1 | 0 | exterior lighting |
| 2011 | 1 | 0 | exterior lighting |
| 2010 | 11 | 0 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2009 | 19 | 1 | electrical system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices1 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2009 · steering:columncampaign 15V054000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain model year 2008 Infiniti EX35 vehicles equipped with the power tilt/telescope option included in the premium package, manufactured June 29, 2007, to April 25, 2008, 2009 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 vehicles manufactured October 31, 2007, to April 16, 2008, and 2009 Nissan GT-R vehicles manufactured March 14, 2007, to April 25, 2008. The steering column outer tube may not be round, resulting in extra stress being applied to the upper steering bearing. This stress may cause the bearing retainer to fracture, creating extra play in the steering wheel or a possible loss of steering.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: R35
Nismo 3.8 V6
3.8L 6-cylinder · 600 hp · AWD · automatic
Built 2023–2026