New model Nissan GT-R lights up in March

The updated Nissan adds 33kW/24Nm on the challenging all-wheel drive coupe that shook the European exotic car makers when launched in Australia 18 months ago.

Expected to be priced at around the $170,000 mark, the 2011 model goes even further than its predecessor to put down 390kW/612Nm and pick up improved handling, fuel consumption and better after-sales support.

Nissan Australia will market only one GT-R, chopping the previous base model GT-R and aligning price to the existing Premium model's $162,800 and its features with the European-spec GT-R Black.

Nissan spokesman Jeff Fisher says pricing is yet to be fixed. He expects a premium on the existing model given added features and upgraded drivetrain specifications.

"Japan has some variations on the GT-R theme but we won't do that. There will be one specification only and it will be closest in spec to the European 'Black' model."

Mr Fisher says the 2011 GT-R is expected to sell at the rate of 150-200 a year, down on the 260 it did in its first full year. This year to September, Nissan has sold 66.

The 2011 model's engine remains at 3.8 litres but gets 390kW at 6400rpm and 612Nm at 3200-6000rpm thanks to more turbo boost, some valve timing revisions and bigger intake and exhaust pipes.

Power is up but emissions and fuel consumption are down. Nissan quotes a 12 litres/100km average, down from the current 12.5 l/100km.

Externally the 2011 model is identified by a bigger bumper and intake openings that increase downforce by about 10 per cent and reduce the coefficient of drag to 0.26 from 0.27.

Chassis changes - including a carbon strut brace under the bonnet and one behind the passenger-side dashboard - result in greater body stability and strength.

Inside the GT-R gets a new instrument panel design and sat-nav display, some black-chrome trim to the console and air vents, and seats with more support.