Nissan Skyline GT-R

In the ever-evolving world of automotive innovation, Nissan’s Skyline has been a beacon of resilience and progress. With its rich history dating back many decades, the Skyline has consistently pushed boundaries and captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. In this article, we delve into the intriguing story of the Nissan Skyline Crossover and explore the potential future of this iconic model.

A Bold Beginning

The Nissan Skyline Crossover, known as the J50 type, made its debut in 2007 as the “EX.” Originally designed for North America under Nissan’s luxury car channel “Infiniti,” this compact premium SUV aimed to combine the handling and ride comfort of the famed G35 (V36 Skyline) with a 3.7-liter V6 engine, mated to a 7-speed AT.

The initial reception was positive, with praise for its interior quality and performance. However, when the model arrived in Japan in 2009, it faced some challenges. It offered limited rear-seat and cargo space for an SUV and was exclusively available with a 3.7-liter engine, leading to high vehicle tax and poor fuel efficiency. Competing in the same class as the more affordable Murano (which also had a 2.5-liter version), the Skyline Crossover struggled to gain traction in the Japanese market. Even the 2WD models came with a hefty price tag, ranging from 4.2 million yen to 4.725 million yen, making it a tough sell. Domestic sales ultimately ceased in 2014, marking the end of a short-lived era for the Skyline Crossover.

What Went Wrong?

The five-year run of the Skyline Crossover was a departure from the model’s storied history. Some automotive enthusiasts speculate that introducing a lower-priced 2.5-liter V6 gasoline engine variant, similar to one sold exclusively in China at the time, could have altered the outcome. The automotive landscape has evolved since then, with domestically produced crossover SUVs now commanding prices ranging from the late 3 million yen to around 5 million yen. If the Skyline Crossover had launched 15 years later, it might have been better positioned to thrive in today’s market.

Nissan’s discontinuation of the Murano in Japan, coupled with the rise of mid-sized SUVs like the “X-Trail” as the new flagship model, serves as a reminder of the changing tides in the industry. The failure of the Skyline Crossover was undoubtedly a bitter pill for Nissan to swallow.

Infiniti QX55: The Potential Successor

In a world where luxury crossover SUVs are currently en vogue, Nissan recognizes the importance of staying relevant. Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury division, already boasts a lineup of sizable crossover SUVs, including the QX50, QX55 (a coupe SUV), and the QX60 (a three-row SUV). With the Skyline (V37 type) now a decade old, the industry eagerly anticipates a successor.

Some industry experts speculate that Nissan might leverage the existing Infiniti SUVs, rebranding them under the Skyline name to introduce the new Skyline Crossover. The recent success of models like the Crown Crossover and Crown Sport has heightened this possibility.

A Glimpse of the Future

In a rapidly changing automotive landscape, Nissan faces significant challenges. The discontinuation of sedans like the Cima and Fuga in 2022 leaves only the Skyline remaining in Nissan’s sedan lineup. Questions linger about whether the next Skyline model will indeed materialize.

In response to reports in 2021 suggesting the cancellation of the next Skyline’s development, Nissan Vice President Asako Hoshino emphatically stated, “We will not give up on the Skyline.” For many, the Skyline represents more than just a car; it’s a source of inspiration and nostalgia.

As Nissan continues to regain momentum with a flurry of new model launches, the future of the Skyline remains uncertain yet hopeful. In an industry defined by innovation and adaptation, Nissan’s determination to uphold the legacy of the Skyline is a testament to the brand’s enduring spirit. Car enthusiasts around the world eagerly await the next chapter in the storied history of the Skyline.

Tokyo, Japan – September 18, 2023

Nissan, one of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers, has ignited the excitement of car enthusiasts with the announcement of their latest creation, the “Skyline NISMO.” This remarkable vehicle, set to hit the market in early September 2023, is poised to take the automotive world by storm with its impressive blend of performance enhancements and a meticulously designed interior that screams sophistication.

A Legacy Reimagined

The Skyline has a rich heritage that dates back to 1957, known for its sporty engines and impeccable handling. This 13th-generation sedan/coupe, introduced in November 2013, remains the sole sedan model sold by Nissan in Japan. The “Skyline NISMO” is built upon the foundation of the high-performance 400R grade, undergoing numerous refinements. It pays tribute to its predecessors, especially the second-generation “Skyline GT,” aiming to be the ultimate grand touring (GT) car for those who demand speed, comfort, and peace of mind.

Under the hood, the “Skyline NISMO” boasts a 3-liter V6 twin-turbo engine that churns out an impressive 420 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque. This power is seamlessly harnessed through a 7-speed automatic transmission, with a rear-wheel-drive (FR) system ensuring a thrilling driving experience. To enhance its performance further, it adopts several features from the iconic GT-R, including front window adhesive for improved rigidity, specially tuned suspension, stabilizer, electronic controls, and bespoke tires, wheels, and aero components.

Crafted Interior Elegance

While the exterior pays homage to its predecessors, it’s the interior of the “Skyline NISMO” that truly sets it apart as a grand tourer. Drawing inspiration from the 400R, the interior is drenched in a unified black tone, creating a serene and luxurious driving environment. Red accents are strategically placed around the driver’s seat, adding a touch of NISMO’s sporty character.

The special steering wheel features red markings and red stitching to highlight the center position, while the tachometer boasts a striking red ring. With a full-scale speedometer displaying 280 km/h, it ensures the driver is always in control. The center console follows suit with red stitching, and customers have the option to include carbon decorative panels for the door trims and center console, enhancing the sporty aesthetic while reducing weight.

The Recaro sports seats, also available with carbon panels, are semi-bucket seats. These seats showcase a striking combination of red and black, with perforations in key areas for added comfort. Nissan’s engineers have meticulously designed the seats to optimize body pressure distribution, ensuring a comfortable driving experience even during long journeys.

Moreover, the integration of carbon panels and the absence of trunk-through rear seats have resulted in a 20 kg reduction in the vehicle’s weight, enhancing its overall performance.

Yukio Kamiyama, the head of vehicle evaluation at NMC, shared insights into the seat selection process: “The seat angle has been verified to be the best. Although there is no height adjustment, we have comprehensively evaluated the seat to find the best position. The seat design is GT-R NISMO, and the seat back is a combination of that of ‘Note Aura NISMO.’ Manual adjustment was chosen to maintain vehicle weight.”

Limited Edition: An Ultimate Expression

For those who desire an even more exclusive experience, Nissan will release a limited edition of the “Skyline NISMO” in the summer of 2024. This version, aptly named “LIMITED,” will be produced in a limited run of just 100 units and will feature a high-precision engine hand-assembled by skilled craftsmen. Additionally, craftsmen will meticulously apply decals by hand, ensuring each car is a unique masterpiece.

The “LIMITED” edition will be priced at 7,884,000 yen (including consumption tax), offering an even more exclusive experience to the most discerning enthusiasts. It will include the same NISMO items that define the Skyline NISMO but with a level of craftsmanship and exclusivity that sets it apart from the rest.

With its outstanding performance enhancements and a meticulously designed interior, the Nissan “Skyline NISMO” is set to become a coveted addition to the world of grand touring. Only 1,000 units of this masterpiece will be available in early September 2023, with prices starting at 7,880,400 yen (including consumption tax). Enthusiasts who desire the pinnacle of luxury and performance should keep an eye out for the limited “LIMITED” edition, arriving in the summer of 2024.

Nissan “Skyline GT-R (R34 type) V spec” Sells for Over 30 Million Yen at Cars and Bids Auction!
In a surprising turn of events, a classic Nissan car with more than 150,000 km on its odometer has fetched an astonishing price of about 30 million yen at a recent auction held by Cars and Bids, a well-known North American car auctioneer. The 1999 Nissan “Skyline GT-R (R34 type) V spec” proved to be a hot commodity among car enthusiasts, drawing a whopping $210,000 (approximately ¥29.11 million) winning bid.

The Skyline GT-R (R34 type) V spec is part of the 10th generation of the “Skyline” series, introduced in May 1998, with the GT-R variant making its debut around eight months later in January 1999. Renowned for its smaller body size compared to its predecessor, the R33, this model boasts exceptional footwork performance. The V-spec version, as showcased in this auction, comes with exclusive aero parts and specially tuned suspension, along with Nissan’s unique 4WD system “Atesa E-TS PRO,” active LSD, and a multi-function display, making it a high-spec model adored by car enthusiasts.

The striking exterior color of the exhibited Skyline GT-R (R34 type) V spec is Midnight Purple II, a mysterious hue that shifts in appearance depending on the viewing angle, adding to its allure. Under the hood, the car is powered by a robust 2.6-liter in-line 6-cylinder twin-turbo engine that churns out a maximum output of 280 horsepower, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.

Despite its impressive performance and classic appeal, what truly captivated bidders was the car’s relatively low mileage of 153,560 km, despite being slightly overrun. Moreover, the vehicle remained in excellent condition, both on the exterior and interior, with minimal damage.

The auction, held on June 9, 2023, saw a staggering 44 bids placed on the iconic Nissan model. Ultimately, a bidder from California, USA, emerged victorious with a bid of $210,000, setting a new record for the sale of a Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34 type) V spec.

Comparing this remarkable selling price to the original new car price of around 6 million yen, it becomes evident that the winning bid was approximately five times the car’s initial value. This extraordinary premium reflects the high demand for well-preserved classic cars in the automotive market, especially for iconic models like the Skyline GT-R (R34 type) V spec, which holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors alike.

It’s clear that this particular Nissan car has not only stood the test of time but has also proven itself to be a valuable investment for its lucky new owner. With the automotive world continually embracing nostalgia and classic appeal, it wouldn’t be surprising to see more iconic models reaching unprecedented prices in the future. As the automotive market evolves, collectors and enthusiasts eagerly await the next thrilling auction event that could potentially set new records and make headlines once again. [Editor’s Note: Part of the text has been revised on July 24, 2023.]

It’s hard to believe, but 25 years have passed since the debut of some iconic Japanese sports sedans in 1998. Back then, the general belief was that a car’s lifespan was around 10 years or 100,000 km, but the roads today still echo with the purr of engines from two and a half decades ago. Among these timeless machines, three stand out – the “Altezza,” the “Skyline,” and the “Lancer Evo 5.” However, these legends now face the threat of fading away, potentially being relegated to overseas garages. Let’s delve into these cars’ histories and understand why they deserve to be saved from extinction.

The Toyota Altezza: A Modest Powerhouse

Toyota’s “Altezza” roared onto the scene in October 1998. Despite its relatively compact size – measuring 4400 mm in length and 1720 mm in width – the Altezza turned heads with its rear-wheel-drive layout, European-inspired styling, and upscale “chronograph” meters. Under the hood, the Altezza offered a range of power units, including the spirited inline 4-cylinder “3S-GE” engine and the smooth inline 6-cylinder “1G-FE” engine. This amalgamation of power and refinement created an appealing front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR) sedan package, tailor-made for mature enthusiasts.

As time progressed, the Altezza’s legacy evolved. A wagon variant known as the “Altezza Jita” was introduced, manual transmission options became available across all sedan grades, and the “L Edition” took shape as the luxury-oriented “Lexus IS” brand for North America. This evolution culminated in the transformation of the Altezza into the Lexus IS, a nameplate that continues to thrive today.

The Nissan Skyline R34: Fearless Performance

Nissan’s historic “Skyline” lineage, which dates back to 1957, reached its 10th generation pinnacle with the introduction of the “R34 Skyline” in May 1998. The R34 was conceived as the embodiment of a genuine sports sedan and coupe, encompassing bold design and unwavering dedication to core performance attributes: acceleration, handling, and braking.

Powered by the NEO straight-six inline six-cylinder engine, the R34 Skyline took different forms, including the high-performance variants like the turbocharged 25GT-X TURBO and 25GT TURBO, which boasted a maximum output of 280 hp from the RB25DET engine. The following year, the ultimate “Skyline GT-R (BNR34 model)” took the stage, further cementing the R34’s legacy.

Though the R34 Skyline bowed out to make way for the 11th-generation Skyline (V35 model) in 2001, its impact remains indelible in the hearts of enthusiasts and collectors.

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution V: Rally-Bred Dominance

Mitsubishi’s “Lancer Evolution” series, conceived to dominate the World Rally Championship (WRC), hit its stride in 1992 with the inaugural Lancer Evo 1. Fast forward to January 1998, and the fifth-generation Lancer Evolution V (“Lancer Evo 5”) roared onto the stage, building on the foundation set by its predecessors.

Sporting a wider stance and improved handling stability, the Evo 5 was armed with the “4G63” 2-liter inline 4-cylinder turbo engine, delivering impressive torque and agility. Just a year later, in January 1999, the Evo 5 was succeeded by the more advanced “Lancer Evolution VI” (“Lancer Evo 6”), marking yet another milestone in the Evolution series’ evolution.

In recent years, a wave of nostalgia has gripped the automotive world, with the 1980s and 1990s producing neo-classic Japanese sports cars that are gaining popularity worldwide. In the United States, the “25-year rule” has granted a lifeline to these classics, allowing right-hand drive cars to be registered as “classic cars” after a quarter-century of existence.

Enthusiasts and collectors alike are taking notice. Japanese sports cars that once roared exclusively in their homeland are now finding homes abroad. To secure your own piece of automotive history, it’s advisable to act sooner rather than later, as the used car market for these revered models is bound to soar. Let’s rally together to save these legends from fading into the past, ensuring that their engines continue to roar for generations to come.

In an electrifying discovery for auto enthusiasts, a pristine Nissan Skyline GT-R V-Spec II (BNR34 model) has emerged from the shadows in Australia, captivating collectors and enthusiasts alike. This high-caliber vehicle, part of the second generation of Nissan’s Skyline GT-R lineup, recently commanded a staggering sum of ¥24,350,000 at auction.

The Skyline GT-R V-Spec II, colloquially referred to as the R34 V-Spec II, is a coveted gem within the R34 lineage, consistently commanding prices exceeding ¥20 million at auctions. This particular specimen, boasting a remarkably low mileage of just 2,745 kilometers, exemplifies the pinnacle of GT-R excellence.

Hailing from the 10th generation of the Skyline family, the R34 was unveiled in January 1999 as a successor to the R33. With a more compact footprint than its predecessor, the R34 presented an enhanced agility and athleticism, setting the stage for the GT-R’s enduring legacy.

Upon its debut, the R34 was offered in both standard and V-Spec variants. The V-Spec variant, short for “Victory Specification,” distinguished itself with a track-inspired exterior and a heightened driving experience compared to its standard counterpart. Noteworthy features of the V-Spec model include bespoke aerodynamic components, finely tuned suspension, and an active limited-slip differential (LSD) system.

In August 2000, Nissan introduced the V-Spec II variant, featuring subtle yet impactful refinements. A standout innovation of the V-Spec II was its adoption of a carbon-fiber engine hood with NACA ducts, aimed at optimizing aerodynamics. This groundbreaking move marked the R34 as the first mass-produced car to integrate such technology. Aluminum pedals, an enhanced body kit, and a reinforced suspension further contributed to the V-Spec II’s prowess.

Under the hood, the R34 V-Spec II boasts a twin-turbocharged 2.6-liter inline 6-cylinder RB26DETT engine. This powerhouse generates a robust 280 horsepower and a maximum torque of 40.0 kgf-m, delivering exhilarating performance on demand.

The spotlight fell on November 22, 2022, when a remarkable R34 V-Spec II graced the Australian exhibition scene. Originating in Japan, the vehicle had journeyed to Australia, where it was presented to discerning buyers in an unregistered state, having only accumulated a mere 2745 km on its odometer.

A distinctive attribute of this particular unit is its rare “Sparkling Silver” exterior paint, a hue that was reportedly applied to only 348 V-Spec IIs produced by the factory. The interior and exterior of the vehicle stand testament to meticulous care and maintenance, mirroring its limited usage. Notably, the car has been equipped with enhancements including a WedsSport catalytic converter, GReddy turbo timer, Nismo speedometer, and cold-weather specifications, adding a layer of exclusivity to an already extraordinary offering.

The seller of this exceptional R34 V-Spec II had this to say: “The R34 Skyline GT-R is one of Japan’s most revered performance vehicles, especially in the prized V Spec II iteration. This specific vehicle, boasting documented low mileage, exhibits impeccable interior and exterior condition. We extend our recommendation to Japanese car aficionados and those who relish the art of driving.”

The focal point of attention was undoubtedly the bidding price, which surged to a staggering A$275,500 (approximately ¥24,350,000). Such a price tag underscores the rarity and desirability of the V-Spec II, confirming its status as a covetable masterpiece within the R34 realm. Enthusiasts and collectors alike are left in awe, as this remarkable vehicle blazes a trail through the annals of automotive history.