The iconic Nissan GT-R - a car that revolutionized sports cars 17 years ago with its all-wheel drive and cutting-edge technology - is coming to the end of its production life. However, Nissan assures that the GT-R's future is bright, reveals Nissan's vice president of design Matthew Weaver.
Weaver himself, an award-winning designer, recently spoke to Top Gear, offering some tantalizing hints about the next GT-R. While details remain scarce, one thing is certain: Godzilla's spirit will live on.
„The next GT-R will have “Godzilla elements” in its design”, reveals Weaver. This does not mean a literal translation of the mythical beast, but rather a design language that preserves the essence of the GT-R's heritage. As Weaver explains: “If this is a continuation of the GT-R, customers and fans want to know that this is still a GT-R.
However, form should follow function. The GT-R has always been about raw performance and that philosophy will continue to rule. “The design must follow the functionality of the car,”, emphasizes Weaver. “The GT-R was never intended to win beauty contests - it is a very functional machine.“
Expect the next GT-R to be sculpted by the wind itself. Weaver recalls the meticulous wind tunnel testing that shaped the current R35 model. “I remember working on the last model where we spent days and nights in the wind tunnels. I have never done anything like that with another product since.“
While the pursuit of maximum performance may necessitate some dramatic departures from the R35's design, the essence of the GT-R will remain. “On top of that, we will add some “Godzilla elements” where we can,”, Weaver assures us.
So while the new GT-R may have a radically different silhouette to maximize speed, downforce and cornering ability, don't be surprised to see familiar design cues like the quad taillights or aggressive headlights. These elements, seamlessly integrated into the car's functional design, will ensure that the next GT-R carries the torch of its legendary predecessors.