2018 Nissan GT-R To Wallop Competition With 700+ Horsepower Hybrid Powertrain

It’s hard to believe that the current generation Nissan GT-R has been available in the U.S. since July 2008. Since its debut, the GT-R has demolished vehicles costing thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars more when it comes to outright performance. This is despite the fact that the GT-R has been criticized for 1) lacking a “soul”, 2) being controlled by “nanny” computers, and 3) weighing in at nearly 3,900 pounds.

The GT-R has never been starved for power, but it still will receive a significant power boost in next incarnation according to German auto publication Autobild. The 2016 GT-R produces 545hp from its twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine, which sends power to all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The more potent GT-R NISMO bumps output to an even 600hp.

2016 Nissan GT-R NISMO

The 2018 GT-R, however, will add in a hybrid-electric system paired with the twin-turbo V6 to boost combined power to over 700hp. Autobild says that the new hybrid powertrain is derived from the system currently used in the GT-R LM NISMO. That race car makes use of a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 that produces 500hp. A Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) makes use of a flywheel system can add an additional 750hp.

While the current “Godzilla” is an angry beast with 600hp on tap, we can’t imagine what demeanor will lurk beneath the surface with 700+ horsepower at the driver’s disposal. It should be an even more spectacular performer if Nissan manages to trim some weight off the current, somewhat portly beast.

The current GT-R cost “only” $69,850 when it was first introduced in 2008, but has quickly escalated in price since then. The 2016 GT-R Premium now starts at $101,770, while the GT-R NISMO will set you back $149,990. We’d hate to see how much the price will increase for the 2018 model, but if you have to ask…