Nissan considering an Infiniti GT-R variant

We reported back in March of 2007, that a photographer taking shots while the new GT-R was in testing says he overheard a conversation between two Nissan workers that were calling the GT-R the “Infiniti Skyline GT-R.” We even ran a poll later that month asking which badge the GT-R should carry, in which Nissan won.

Well after Infiniti dealers continuously expressed disappointment over Nissan’s decision to keep the GT-R exclusively under the ‘Nissan’ badge, the third largest Japanese auto maker may be considering an Infiniti version of the supercar.

In an interview with Car Magazine, Nissan’s design head, Shiro Nakamura, said...
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dlin - 2/11/2008 4:26:38 PM

+3 Boost

First option is way more likely. However it probably won't appear till next generation as it won't necessarily be a profitable line. Even BMW doesn't have a good sale on 6 series(probably due to its ugly front).

However, it's not impossible INFINITI squeeze a detuned version of the engine and AWD in G coupe and you automatically get an M3-eater.

montyz81 - 2/13/2008 10:30:01 AM

+1 Boost

The only thing I worry about with putting the GT-R engine in the G coupe is that it would come close to the GTR in price. It would be a lesser option to the GT-R. An Infiniti is a lesser alternative to a Nissan. Not a position I think Nissan wants to put themselves in.

dlin - 2/13/2008 10:53:44 PM

+1 Boost

That's why I say "detuned".

Nissan should be able to run it around 8 minutes, which is still quite far from 7:38 of GT-R, and therefore can be positioned against second tier performance cars like M3.

0to60 - 2/11/2008 1:13:12 PM

+3 Boost

:-D!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kiriller - 2/11/2008 1:16:44 PM

-4 Boost

If they infact go ahead with this idea, comparing g37 to 350z, infiniti sould and im sure it will have more luxuious features while running same 1/4 mile, would be intresting to see waht tehy came up with. The new g37 imo is ugly comparing to fist gen g35, if they screw up the looks of the infiniti gtr i will loose all hope for the infiniti.

DROOPYSAKK - 2/11/2008 1:28:53 PM

-8 Boost

this is dumb, whoever would pay for the infiniti version is an ass

Htay7500 - 2/11/2008 2:31:51 PM

+5 Boost

"Only an ass would buy an Infiniti. Those are Nissans in discuise."

You could also say that about lexuses, and you spelled "discuise" wrong bte.

PlanB - 2/11/2008 1:56:27 PM

+4 Boost

An Infiniti GT-R I also think is dumb. It's been a Nissan since its inception, why change that? Now if they wanna use the powertrain and some of the other technological goodies under the hood and drop them into a future performance luxury sedan (ex. Corvette/CTS-V) I'm all for it. but the GT-R as is should remain and always remain a Nissan imo.

dlin - 2/11/2008 4:09:15 PM

+3 Boost

In fact, I don't see pricing over $70,000 a problem. Infiniti needs that kind of pricing to strengthen its brand image and further differentiate from NISSAN.

I'm not sure if the exact same powertrain will be used in M or Q either, other than Infiniti planned to establish a 'M' division like BMW's. However I like the idea of rear-mounted transmission as that improves weight distribution and may cure the snappy tail-out nature seen in G35.

MunichRob - 2/11/2008 3:32:12 PM

+1 Boost

Two words...Holy sh*t!!

BozzorTheGreat - 2/11/2008 3:57:53 PM

+1 Boost

When I see the word's 'Nissan GT-R', I do not see the word Nissan...I see 3 letters that make me fully understand what is beign offered. It is the model itself, rather than the company that makes it, that carries the credibility. Many people I know don't care for Toyotas but the Landcruiser is a real exception.

XYZZ - 2/12/2008 2:12:19 AM

+1 Boost

kaisersozedude:

"...the model that stands out as the one where the upscale version and the affordable version are most similar, is the Lexus ES and the Toyota Camry, which, per my understanding at least, are very nearly clones from a mechanical standpoint."


a generation or two back, the ES was actually developed and put on the market first. FOLLOWED by the new camry.

so the camry was in fact, a decontented lexus ES. this no doubt helped FURTHER increase the camry's popularity and sales. buyers of the v6 models were in effect getting a Lexus for toyota money.

snatchandgrab - 2/14/2008 1:16:59 PM

+1 Boost

"Only an ass would buy an Infiniti. Those are Nissans in disguise. Smart people buy a Lexus especially an LS600h or an IS."


Joshlexus4ever..i can't believe someone with Lexus in their name would have the nerves to say that. But, i see you said your daddy is buying an IS. You must be a kid who doesn't know any better. Hello!!! Lexus is made by Toyota....same concept...Luxury division.

snatchandgrab - 2/14/2008 1:19:31 PM

+1 Boost

Joshlexus4ever obviously enjoys people calling him stupid.