Nissan Confirms Next-Gen GT-R R36 Launch Before 2030 with Hybrid System, Retaining VR38 Engine Foundation

Nissan has confirmed that the next-generation GT-R R36 will officially launch before 2030. The current R35 GT-R will conclude its 18-year production run in 2025, after which Nissan had long remained unclear about plans for its successor. Over the past few years, Nissan executives weighed options between fully electric and hybrid powertrains before ultimately deciding on a hybrid solution. Ponzi Pandikuthira, Senior Vice President and Chief Planning Officer at Nissan North America, stated that the R36 will be developed on an entirely new architecture and represent a complete redesign. Regarding the powertrain, the current R35’s 3.8-liter twin-turbo VR38 V6 engine is expected to be retained but enhanced with hybrid technology. However, to meet emissions regulations and performance requirements, significant modifications to the cylinder head, pistons, and upper engine structure may be necessary. Pandikuthira noted that the VR38 engine boasts excellent tuning potential and has cultivated a large base of loyal enthusiasts, but it currently fails to comply with emissions standards in certain regions, necessitating electrification to enable global sales. He anticipates that concrete details about the R36 will be revealed around 2028, with the vehicle launching before 2030.