Call it affection or nostalgia, but the Nissan GT-R continues to be the Godzilla of performance cars–even if only in name. The Japanese icon is not the fastest, the most luxurious, or even the most powerful sports car out there. Still, it remains a unique option thanks to its distinctive design, explosive acceleration, comfortable ride quality, and competitive price point.

What’s New for the 2023 Nissan GT-R

Following a brief hiatus (the 2022 GT-R was sold globally except in North America), the beast is back! But even with the gap year under its belt, the sports car is neither bigger nor bolder, nor is it different in any physical way–it's just older. So, despite the break, the 2023 GT-R is a carryover of the 2021 model and is offered in Premium and Nismo trims.

Design

The Nissan GT-R design isn’t low-slung and sleek in the classic sports car sense. Instead, its character lines evoke an angry muscle car presence rather than a sexy supercar. And that’s okay. The GT-R nevertheless turns heads. Its long hood, raked roofline, and chunky spoiler create a recognizable profile. Additional aerodynamic elements like air ducts, flush door handles, and other bodywork help the GT-R achieve a drag coefficient of 0.26 Cd. To help maintain that level of wind-cutting performance, the standard 20-inch wheels are wrapped in ultra-high-performance run-flats in a staggered setup. Front tires are 255/40ZRF20 and paired with 285/35ZRF20 tires in the rear.

Powertrain

And if you don’t see the 2023 GT-R, you’ll certainly hear it. The standard GT-R engine remains a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6. Its output is 565 horsepower and 467 pound-feet of torque. And all that grunt is emitted through a standard titanium exhaust system. Nissan hasn’t provided zero-to-60-mph times, but industry pundits have clocked the all-wheel-drive (AWD) GT-R at around 3 seconds. That’s quick. For faster numbers and louder backfire gargles, opt for the Nismo. Using the same twin-turbo V6, the 2023 GT-R Nismo is tuned for 600 hp and 481 lb-ft of torque. The Nissan GT-R is offered only with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The 2023 GT-R offers three drive modes (Normal, Comfort, and R) that change the engine, transmission, and suspension setups. The GT-R Premium features a double-wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. Standard Bilstein DampTronic shock absorbers provide extra comfort and handling, while standard Brembo brakes provide the on-point stopping power. The GT-R Nismo upgrades to a larger and lighter carbon-ceramic braking system. The Nismo also features a track-tuned suspension, enhanced transmission gearing, and carbon fiber components.

Interior

The GT-R interior features bucket seats up front and a bench in the rear. Yes, this two-door sports coupe has seating for four. And there is plenty of room for those seated up front, but the rear seats will make taller passengers feel cramped and claustrophobic.

The GT-R Premium comes standard with leather-and-suede combination upholstery and heated front seats. A full leather interior is available as an option. The cabin features tons of soft padding and materials but is an all-black cavern save for bits of aluminum and carbon fiber trim pieces. Nismo models add a tad more visual appeal with exclusivities like leather-appointed Recaro front seats, contrast red stitching, and an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel with an interior-matching red stripe. Other amenities include keyless entry, push-button start, cruise control, and dual-zone climate control.

Technology

Although a carryover model, the 2023 GT-R is well-appointed with multimedia. Standard is an 8-inch touchscreen featuring NissanConnect. The infotainment system includes Bluetooth, navigation, Apple CarPlay integration, voice recognition, an 11-speaker Bose sound system with active noise canceling, and a three-month trial to SiriusXM, which includes subscription-based satellite programming as well as access to NissanConnect Services (i.e., remote vehicle commands and emergency response services).

For wide-open-throttle days, customizable data pages can also be managed via the touchscreen. Vehicle data includes fluid temperatures, gear selection, g-forces, turbocharging boost, and a lap timer.

Safety

Beyond standard safety equipment like airbags and seat belts, the Nissan GT-R offers little in terms of advanced driver-assistance systems. But that’s on par with its performance-oriented direct competitors. Tech like lane-departure warning isn’t needed for the track, after all. The GT-R does come standard with a backup camera, front and rear parking sensors, traction control, electronic brake force distribution, and an Advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control stability system that applies to all drive modes.

Pricing

The 2023 Nissan GT-R sees a teeny price increase from the previous model. The 2023 GT-R pricing starts at $116,040 for the Premium model, an increase of $2,500. That’s two percent more than the 2021 version. The 2023 GT-R NISMO price goes up by $5,000 to $215,740. The destination charge is unchanged at an extra $1,895. Assembled in Japan, the 2023 Nissan GT-R went on sale last fall at select dealerships nationwide.