“The current GT-R is one of the last cars of an era of more dialed-in, raw driving experiences. Having driven the 2009, 2012 and 2018 I can safely say the GT-R has become more refined and complete over time and the 2021 is the best iteration so far. Yesterday's bang for the buck ""cheat car"" is today's unique choice for people looking for a distinct driving experience that's unlike anything else out there.”
2021 Nissan GT-R: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2021 Nissan GT-R was the arrival of two limited-production versions: T-spec and NISMO Special Edition. The core Premium and NISMO models received no broad update, while the Track Edition left the lineup.
About the 2021 Nissan GT-R
R35 generation, late-cycle model year; T-spec and NISMO Special Edition joined during 2021. U.S.-designated 2021 sales extended into calendar year 2022, with no U.S. 2022 model year.
Nissan positions the GT-R as a four-seat supercar that combines hand-assembled twin-turbo power, rapid dual-clutch shifts, and performance-oriented AWD with more everyday usability than many mid-engine competitors. Its core identity centers on immense acceleration, all-weather traction, data-rich driver displays, and a cabin with usable rear seats and trunk space. The NISMO versions add race-derived braking, suspension, turbocharger, and carbon-fiber technology.
Premium remained the main 565-hp GT-R, pairing AWD performance with heated front seats, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Bose audio. T-spec added stronger carbon-ceramic brakes and richer cabin materials, while the 600-hp NISMO models emphasized sharper suspension tuning, extensive carbon-fiber bodywork, and Recaro front seats.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The new NISMO Special Edition used high-precision, weight-balanced internal engine components intended to sharpen engine and turbo response. Output remained 600 hp.
Styling
T-spec added wider front fenders and a carbon-fiber rear spoiler. The NISMO Special Edition received a clear-coated carbon-fiber hood that exposed the material’s weave.
Structural
T-spec combined its wider front fenders and carbon-fiber rear spoiler with NISMO-derived carbon-ceramic brakes and dedicated brake-cooling guides.
2021 Nissan GT-R specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.8 Liter | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.8 Liter | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.8 Liter | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd Dual-Clutch w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd Dual-Clutch w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd Dual-Clutch w/Manual Mode | Automatic, 6-Spd Dual-Clutch w/Manual Mode |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 22 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg | 22 mpg |
| Horsepower | 600 hp | 565 hp | 565 hp | 600 hp |
| Torque | 481 lb-ft | 467 lb-ft | 467 lb-ft | 481 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 8.8 cu-ft | 8.8 cu-ft | 8.8 cu-ft | 8.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 26.4 in | 26.4 in | 26.4 in | 26.4 in |
| Seats | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| LED Headlights | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What was the biggest change to the 2021 Nissan GT-R?
The biggest change was the addition of the limited-production T-spec and NISMO Special Edition. The main Premium and NISMO versions otherwise carried over without a broad mechanical, safety, or infotainment update.
How is the 2021 GT-R T-spec different from the Premium?
The 2021 T-spec builds on the 565-hp Premium with carbon-ceramic brakes, brake-cooling guides, wider front fenders, a carbon-fiber rear spoiler, semi-aniline leather-appointed seats, and a quilted Alcantara headliner.
What makes the 2021 GT-R NISMO Special Edition different from the regular NISMO?
The NISMO Special Edition adds high-precision, weight-balanced internal engine parts for sharper response and a clear-coated carbon-fiber hood. It retains the regular NISMO’s 600-hp twin-turbo V6, carbon-ceramic brakes, tuned suspension, and Recaro front seats.
Was the Track Edition part of the 2021 Nissan GT-R lineup?
No. The Track Edition was dropped for 2021 as T-spec and NISMO Special Edition joined the lineup.
Did every 2021 Nissan GT-R receive mechanical or technology upgrades?
No. There was no lineup-wide mechanical, safety, or infotainment upgrade for 2021. The meaningful changes were concentrated in the new T-spec and NISMO Special Edition.
2021 Nissan GT-R Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Nissan GT-R.
4.7
2021 Nissan GT-R
(3 reviews)