2019 Nissan GT-R Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
byCalvin Kim
Vehicle Test Engineer
Calvin Kim is an automotive journalist at Edmunds.Pros
- Twin-turbo V6 delivers explosive acceleration
- Easy to drive for maximum performance
- Ride is surprisingly comfortable
Cons
- Lurchy and noisy powertrain, particularly at low speeds
- Dated infotainment system graphics
- Price has risen significantly over the last few years
- Handling abilities seem to diminish at track speeds
What's new
- No significant changes for 2019
- Part of the first GT-R generation introduced for 2009
Back in 2009, the American economy was faltering and fuel prices were rising. It was an inauspicious time for Nissan to launch its new GT-R. Yet with all-wheel drive, a thumping turbocharged V6 and decades of heritage behind it, the GT-R became an immediate sensation. A decade later, the economy is healthy and gas prices are low. The 2019 GT-R, however, is not much different than it was for its debut.
Certainly, the Nissan GT-R continues to squish the backs of passengers into their seats. There are four versions of the GT-R: Pure, Premium, Track Edition and Nismo. Although they all have slightly different features that give them progressively more performance capabilities, all of them share the same basic twin-turbo V6, six-speed dual-clutch transaxle and adjustable all-wheel-drive system.
The non-track GT-R trims have a surprisingly supple ride, making new models far more comfortable to drive around town than older versions. However, it comes at the expense of ultimate handling performance. Though they still perform well on the road, the limits of these street-oriented GT-Rs manifest once you really start pushing. Competitors such as the Porsche 911, which benefit from newer redesigns, offer similar levels of comfort with no performance penalty. It's also fair to say they have a fresher curbside presence.
At the end of the day, though, the GT-R still features an analog gauge cluster and metal shift paddles. It's one of the few cars that doesn't have the word "coddle" in any of its design briefs. If this raw and time-tested approach is for you, check out the 2019 Nissan GT-R.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
7.4 / 10Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Nissan GT-R Premium (turbo 3.8L V6 | -speed dual-clutch automatic | AWD).
Scorecard
| Overall | 7.4 / 10 |
| Driving | 8.0 |
| Comfort | 6.5 |
| Interior | 7.5 |
| Utility | 7.0 |
| Technology | 6.5 |
Driving
8.0The GT-R delivers world-beating acceleration, while an advanced all-wheel-drive system allows novices to pilot this ultra-capable sports car with surprising ease. If tracking your GT-R is in the future, ditch the Dunlops — they don't provide enough grip. The transmission is slow to react to inputs.
Comfort
6.5In Comfort and Normal modes, the adaptive suspension works well to eliminate bumpiness on poorly paved roads. The seats lack adjustment, and their aggressive lumbar might be a deal-breaker. Mechanical powertrain noises are ever-present. The climate system is a bit finicky.
Interior
7.5Despite the GT-R's age, improvements throughout its life span have kept the cabin looking fresh. It's easy to get in and out of the spacious interior, and the view out isn't as bunker-like as it is in other sports cars. Some buttons are oddly place, and the seat needs additional adjustments for a good driving position.
Utility
7.0Though the trunk is relatively large, the tall liftover height makes loading and unloading items awkward. Interior storage is limited, but you can use the rear seats as extra shelf space. The GT-R gets extra points for the presence of rear seats, which give it an edge in the child seat department.
Technology
6.5While enhancements have been made to other areas of the GT-R over the last decade, the infotainment system is quite dated. Navigation is inaccurate, the voice control system is clumsy, and there's no Android Auto. Besides a rearview camera and parking sensors, driving aids are not available.
Which GT-R does Edmunds recommend?
Though they share the same parts and name, each of the four iterations is slightly different. We say go for the Pure trim since it provides high levels of performance without the additional weight found in the Premium model. Plus, with the cost savings, you can go to more track days or modify it to your heart's content.
2019 Nissan GT-R models
The 2019 Nissan GT-R is a high-performance four-seat sport coupe. It uses a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine (565 horsepower, 467 lb-ft of torque), a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and a variable all-wheel-drive system for its propulsion. The Pure trim is the least expensive way to get a GT-R, but it still has all the essential features. Premium trim cars add luxury options, while the Track Edition adds even more track focus. Finally, the GT-R Nismo ups all performance qualities to the max, including an engine tuned for more power.