We're suckers for spy shots of the upcoming Nissan GT-R. Sure, this near-production version looks just like the "concept" shown at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show, but this one is hot-lapping the world-famous Nrburgring. And that has to count as wicked, cool, nasty and totally bitchin'.
The fact that the production monster looks so much like the concept is not a bad thing, as the GT-R's body is almost antiseptically clean and a distinct break from the current non-GT-R Skyline (which we Americans know as the Infiniti G35 Coupe). Particularly attractive is the roofline, which makes a half-hearted attempt at being a fastback before diving down to the trunklid like a proper notch. It does look unique and should be enough to make just the silhouette an intimidating icon.
Naturally, all-wheel drive will play a part, as it has for the GT-Rs that built the legend. What's not known is the exact spec of the powerplant. Rumors have a twin-turbocharged version of the VQ-series V6. Displacement guesses go from 2.6 to 4.0-liters, with the most likely being in the 3.2 to 3.8-liter range. We're plumping for 3.6 liters. Only because that's the displacement of Porsche's current 911 Turbo and this prototype was seen in that car's company, leading us to believe Nissan is using the German wonder weapon as a benchmark.
Take a look at this prototype's tail end for more good news: those are four of the biggest exhaust pipes ever seen on a car headed for production. We assume engine output must be something like 480bhp (what Porsche claims for the 911 Turbo), or more. We're guessing 525bhp, so the GT-R can credibly dominate such brutes as the Ford Shelby GT-500 Mustang (500bhp), the Corvette Z06 (505bhp) and the Dodge Viper SRT-10 (510bhp). And once the aftermarket gets hold of it, don't be surprised if the dyno hits four digits.
Even more mysterious than the final engine displacement is the transmission. The most repeated rumor is a seven-speed, paddle-shift, though we've also heard that eight gears will be part of the package and/or that traditional manual gear selection will be standard/optional. Time will tell.
Goodbye XB Version4.0
The fourth limited production Scion for 2006, the xB Release Series 4.0, marks the end of the line for the xB with a blowout of customization. 2,500 models of this Scion will be produced with Maziora Torched Penny paint, rear bumper protector, Release Series wheel covers, color-keyed taillights, rear spoiler and Modellista speed grille. The Maziora paint is a psychedelic, polarized hue that changes color depending on the viewing angle or light reflection.
Interior upgrades on this hot box include Release Series floor mats, multi-color under-dash light, color-keyed Razo shift knob, and an individually numbered brushed stainless steel badge. So, if you want to grab one of the last remaining pieces of xB history, line up now and start hammering down the doors of your local Scion dealer.