Rumor: Next-Gen Nissan GT-R to Gain Hybrid Option

Introduced in 2007, the Nissan GT-R was created to rival Porsche’s 911, both on paper and on the track. Evidence has shown that it does this quite well. Nissan’s engineers even planned to mimic the model update cycle used by Porsche for the 911. After a year like 2009, almost everyone has made some changes to their strategies and future product line-ups. Likewise, Nissan is rumored to be planning a surprising option for the next generation of the GT-R.  Although some rumors suggested a GT-R based SUV, or 4-door M5 fighter, sources of Inside Line have led them to believe a hybrid version of the current 2-door supercar is the most likely addition to the Nissan family.

The twin turbocharged 3.8L 440 hp V-6 will be supplemented by a 160 hp electric motor for a targeted total horsepower rating of 600.  Relative to the current GT-R, the next generation will have increased power and fuel economy.  Unfortunately, it will also gain some weight from the batteries and electric motor.  The bulked up GT-R won’t suffer any performance loss though, which is good news.  Oh, did I mention it’s going to cost around $100k?

At $80k, the GT-R makes a good bargain supercar, considering how it competes with others in the $100k+ range.  Even with the impressive power specs and predicted performance, why spend that much on a hybrid version of a car intended for track use?  Is there evidence that a hybrid’s batteries and powertrain can handle that kind of abuse?  To be honest, if I had that much money to spend, I’d go for the Corvette ZR1 or the Porsche 911.

Source: Inside Line