The all-new 2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R is a high-performance coupe. Aptly named after the Grand Turismo Race, the GT-R has been a legend in Japan since 1969, when it went on to win 36 races in four years. Reborn in 1989 as a production sports coupe with supercar performance, the Skyline GT-R was last offered in 2003. The 2009 Nissan Skyline GT-R rides on a 109.4-inch wheelbase and is based on a new platform called prime midship - a design brief that places the engine in such a way that most of its weight is behind the front axle for even distribution of weight. To reduce its final weight, Nissan used aluminum for the inner doors and suspension components; and carbon fiber for the driveshafts, front crash structure and rear diffuser. The GT-R is said to go from zero to 60 mpg in 3.5 seconds; it is also capable of a 11.7-second quarter mile and a top speed of 193 mph.

The GT-R has a DOHC, 24-valve, aluminum engine that uses two IHI turbochargers and twin intercoolers. Under the hood is Nissan's new VR38DETT twin turbo-charged 3.8-liter V-6 that puts out 473 horsepower at 6,400 rpm, and 434 pound-feet of torque from 3,200 to 5,200 rpm. A secondary air-management system enables the Nissan GT-R to meet ultra-low emission vehicle (U-LEV) standards in Japan. The engine sends its power through a rear-mounted, twin-clutch, seven-speed automated manual gearbox that is operated as an automatic or manual via steering wheel paddles. A special Bilstein DampTronic1 system helps maintain maximum control for straight-line driving, cornering and braking.

The Nissan GT-R's styling follows the 'function over form' design. All styling details enhance the vehicle's driving experience and highlight the GT-R's supercar level of performance. The body gets aerodynamic lines and aggressive styling, boasting of a strong character. The GT-R's body is crafted from a unique combination of steel, carbon fiber and aluminum, which makes it both strong and light simultaneously. New "superwide beam" headlights feature three additional subreflectors. The aggressive front fascia, with a large hood bulge and single air intake, adds a touch of sophistication as well as uninterrupted air movement for cooling. The four-passenger cabin features a sloping roofline and curved C-pillar "sword edge." Inside, the GT-R has a multifunction dash with readouts for water temperature, oil pressure, turbo boost, front/rear torque split, fuel consumption and a host of other measurements. Bucket seats provide comfort. A high-speed navigation system features an easy-to-use touch pad; the screen interface holds a premium entertainment system with a Music Box hard drive, DVD/CD player and Bluetooth audio.

Safety features include an advanced air bag system with dual-stage supplemental front air bags, seatbelt sensors and occupant classification sensor; driver and front passenger side-impact supplementary air bags; and roof-mounted curtain side-impact air bags. Also included are a three-point driver and passenger seatbelt system; Latch system for child safety; anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution; a vehicle immobilizer system; and a tire-pressure monitoring system.