Intro
The Nissan GT-R lineage represents Japanese engineering excellence at its pinnacle, tracing its roots back to the legendary Skyline GT-R models of the late 1960s. Through generations of development, the GT-R earned its “Godzilla” nickname by dominating motorsports and challenging supercars costing twice its price.
In JDM culture, the GT-R stands as the ultimate expression of Japan’s technological prowess—a symbol of national pride and engineering philosophy that values performance accessible to enthusiasts, not just the ultra-wealthy. The R35 generation revolutionized the supercar market by delivering hypercar performance with daily drivability, becoming the halo car for Japanese automotive innovation worldwide.
The 2015 Nismo variant represents the most extreme factory expression of the R35 platform. Developed at the Nürburgring with input from racing drivers, this track-focused evolution pushes the GT-R formula to its limits. With specialized aerodynamics, significant weight reduction, and hand-assembled engines, the GT-R Nismo demonstrates how Nissan’s motorsport division transforms an already formidable machine into something truly extraordinary.
Builder Profile
Takumi Nakamura, a third-generation Japanese-American engineer who spent fifteen years working for Nissan’s NISMO division before starting his own performance tuning shop in Torrance, California. After earning his mechanical engineering degree from Kyoto University, Nakamura developed a reputation for creating balanced performance builds that maintain the car’s drivability while pushing the boundaries of what the GT-R platform can achieve.
His tuning philosophy centers around what he calls the “80/20 principle” – extracting 80% of a car’s maximum potential while retaining 20% of headroom for reliability and daily usability. Nakamura is a respected figure in the GT-R community, frequently participating in time attack events at Buttonwillow and hosting technical workshops at major import shows like Wekfest and SpoCom. His builds are recognized for their meticulous attention to detail and subtle aesthetic modifications that complement the performance enhancements.
Why We Love It
The 2015 GT-R Nismo represents the zenith of Nissan’s relentless pursuit of performance—a handcrafted embodiment of Japanese engineering philosophy where kaizen meets raw aggression. Its VR38DETT powerplant, fortified with GT3-derived turbochargers, delivers 600hp with surgical precision through all four wheels, creating a visceral connection between driver input and vehicle response that borders on telepathic.
The carbon-fiber aero package isn’t mere aesthetic flourish—it’s functional sculpture generating an additional 100kg of downforce at speed. That distinctive rear wing and front canards work in harmonious balance with the Nismo-tuned suspension featuring Bilstein DampTronic dampers, specially calibrated for the demanding rhythms of the Nordschleife.
What separates the Nismo from lesser GT-Rs is its uncompromising character. The carbon-backed Recaro seats hold you in place as the car dances through apexes with preternatural poise, the rigid shell communicating every nuance of the tarmac through a steering rack that speaks volumes without shouting. This isn’t merely Godzilla in a track suit—it’s the culmination of decades of Nissan motorsport heritage, from Group A dominance to GT1 glory, distilled into a road-legal time attack weapon.
In an era increasingly defined by digital filters and electronic complexity, the GT-R Nismo offers something increasingly rare—mechanical authenticity elevated to art form.
Mods
ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN
- HKS GT1000+ Turbo Kit
- GReddy 90mm Titanium Exhaust System
- AMS Performance Intercooler Upgrade
- Cobb Accessport V3
- Tomei Expreme Ti Titanium Exhaust Manifold
- Mines VX ROM ECU
- HKS Dual Clutch Transmission Cooler
- Nismo GT LSD Pro Carbon Clutches
SUSPENSION & BRAKES
- Öhlins Road & Track Coilovers
- HKS Hypermax IV GT Suspension Kit
- Cusco Front & Rear Sway Bars
- AP Racing 390mm Carbon Brake Kit
- Endless Brake Pads (Racing Compound)
- Project Mu SCR-Pro Brake Lines
- NISMO S-Tune Suspension Links
WHEELS & TIRES
- RAYS Volk Racing TE37 Ultra (20×10.5 +15 / 20×11 +15)
- Advan GT Premium Forged (20-inch)
- Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08R (285/35R20 & 315/30R20)
- Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 (285/35R20 & 315/30R20)
- Project Kics R40 Lug Nuts
EXTERIOR / AERO
- Top Secret Carbon Front Lip
- Mines Carbon Fiber Hood
- Varis Carbon Wing
- Voltex Type 7 GT Wing
- C-West Carbon Fiber Side Skirts
- Seibon Carbon Trunk
- APR Carbon Fiber Mirrors
- Dry Carbon Canards
INTERIOR
- Bride STRADIA II Low Max seats
- Takata 4-Point Racing Harnesses
- Personal Steering Wheel
- NISMO GT Carbon/Alcantara Shift Knob
- HKS Circuit Attack Counter
- Cusco Roll Cage (half or full)
- Alcantara Headliner and A-Pillars
- NISMO Carbon Fiber Interior Panels
ELECTRONICS / ECU
- HKS F-CON V Pro Engine Management
- AIM MXG Digital Dash Display
- GReddy Multi D/A Gauge
- Defi Advance Control Unit & Gauges
- HPI PowerWriter ECU
- Unichip Q4 Piggyback ECU
- Haltech Elite 2500 ECU Package
- AEM Air/Fuel Ratio Meter
Driving Impression / Build Philosophy
The 2015 Nissan GT-R Nismo represents a holistic approach to vehicle enhancement, where every modification serves a unified purpose. The aerodynamic additions, powertrain upgrades, and suspension refinements aren’t merely standalone improvements but interdependent systems designed to work in concert.
The build philosophy centers on balanced performance, with the 600hp engine matched precisely to chassis capabilities. Downforce-generating carbon fiber elements complement the stiffened suspension, allowing drivers to fully exploit the increased power without overwhelming the handling characteristics. The Nismo-tuned Bilstein dampers maintain composure through high-speed corners while the reinforced body structure guarantees precision feedback.
This GT-R variant clearly targets dual-purpose use—equally at home on street and circuit. While comfortable enough for daily driving, the vehicle’s true nature emerges on track where the extensive modifications deliver measurable lap time improvements. Unlike more narrowly-focused builds (pure drag racers or drift machines), the Nismo maintains versatility while elevating performance in every measurable category.
Each modification reflects deliberate engineering choices rather than showy aftermarket additions, creating a cohesive package that enhances the GT-R’s fundamental character rather than reinventing it. The result is a vehicle that expresses Nissan’s ultimate vision for what the GT-R platform can achieve.
FAQ
How reliable is the 2015 Nissan GT-R Nismo?
The 2015 GT-R Nismo demonstrates above-average reliability for a high-performance supercar. Its VR38DETT engine is overbuilt from the factory, contributing to its durability even under extreme conditions. Regular maintenance following Nissan’s strict service intervals is essential for longevity, particularly transmission fluid changes every 18,000 miles to preserve the dual-clutch transmission.
What is the tuning potential of the GT-R Nismo?
The GT-R Nismo offers exceptional tuning headroom. While factory-rated at 600hp, the VR38DETT engine can safely achieve 700-750hp with basic bolt-on modifications and professional tuning. More extensive builds with upgraded internals, larger turbos, and supporting fuel system modifications can reliably produce over 1,000hp, making it one of the most tunable platforms in the supercar segment.
What common issues affect the 2015 GT-R Nismo?
Common issues include transmission bellhousing vibrations, which may require shimming to correct. The stock turbos are known to develop shaft play around 30,000 miles of aggressive driving. Early models experienced premature transmission wear, particularly when Launch Control was frequently used. Additionally, steering rack failures and ABS actuator problems have been reported, though less frequently on the Nismo variant.
What are the best modifications for the GT-R Nismo?
The most effective modifications include downpipes and a full exhaust system, yielding 30-50hp gains when paired with proper tuning. Upgraded intercoolers notably reduce heat soak during track sessions. For serious power increases, upgrading the turbos to larger units from companies like AMS or ETS provides substantial performance benefits. Suspension upgrades from manufacturers like KW or Öhlins can further enhance the already impressive handling.
What’s the ownership experience like for a GT-R Nismo?
Ownership combines supercar performance with surprising practicality. Running costs are substantial, with specialized maintenance requirements and expensive consumables—particularly tires and brakes when driven aggressively. Annual service costs typically range from $1,500-3,000, excluding major services. The ownership community is exceptionally strong, with dedicated forums and events worldwide. Despite its performance credentials, many owners report the car is comfortable enough for daily driving while still delivering exhilarating track performance.
How does the Nismo differ from the standard GT-R?
The Nismo offers 55 additional horsepower (600hp vs 545hp), enhanced aerodynamics generating 220 pounds of additional downforce, and a specially-tuned suspension with Bilstein DampTronic dampers. It features exclusive carbon fiber components, including the front and rear bumpers, side sills, and rear wing. The interior includes unique Recaro carbon-backed seats with red Alcantara inserts. These improvements result in a 0-60 time approximately 0.2 seconds faster than the standard GT-R.
Conclusion
The 2015 Nissan GT-R Nismo stands as more than just a performance benchmark—it represents the pinnacle of Japanese automotive engineering that continues to challenge supercars costing twice its price. Even years after its release, the GT-R Nismo remains relevant through its accessible supercar performance, technological innovation, and continuous refinement that has kept pace with modern competitors.
This Nismo variant honors the GT-R’s deep roots in Japanese domestic market culture, where the “Godzilla” nickname reflects both its dominance and cultural significance. For JDM enthusiasts worldwide, the GT-R Nismo represents the ultimate expression of Japan’s performance philosophy—blending precision engineering, technological advancement, and track-focused capability in a package that maintains daily usability.
The GT-R’s enduring appeal crosses generational boundaries, enthralling those who grew up with PlayStation’s Gran Turismo games alongside traditional performance car enthusiasts. This cultural resonance, combined with the Nismo’s exceptional performance credentials, guarantees that the 2015 GT-R Nismo will remain a coveted icon in automotive history—the definitive expression of Japanese supercar excellence.