Nissan GT-R to return in hybrid guise by 2030

After discontinuing the GT-R R35 in 2025, Nissan is developing the next-generation GT-R, with the R36 model expected to arrive before the end of the decade. Speaking to The Drive, Nissan North America’s Senior Vice President - Chief Planning Officer, Ponz Pandikuthira, said, “I’d say by 2028 you’ll see some concrete announcements, and hopefully before the decade turns you’ll see an R36 GT-R.”

The next GT-R will be an all-new model, built on a new platform and featuring a largely reworked powertrain. Pandikuthira confirmed that “the powertrain’s going to be mostly new,” adding that the R36 “has to be” on a new chassis and will be “an all-new car.”

1. Expected reveal around 2028, launch before 2030
2. Hybrid setup expected; full-electric GT-R unlikely
3. VR38 engine likely to be retained with major updates

Nissan R36 GT-R: Hybrid powertrain likely, VR38 engine to continue

VR 38 engine image used for reference only.

The next-generation GT-R is expected to adopt electrification, with a hybrid setup seen as the most likely direction. A full-electric GT-R is not currently being considered.

Pandikuthira said, “The next generation GT-R will need some level of electrification.” He added, “So, does it need to be a full EV? Probably not, but it does need to have some level of electrification to future-proof emissions compatibility.”

While the existing VR38 twin-turbo V6 will form the base, it is expected to undergo significant changes. Pandikuthira said, “If there was a hybrid powertrain, the block of that VR38 engine is so great. Why would you throw that away? But maybe the way combustion needs to work will be very different. Maybe the heads are different, maybe the pistons are different, so we may have to change the top end.” 

Nissan’s Hyper Force concept image used for reference only.

Nissan had earlier previewed an all-electric direction for the GT-R with the 2023 Hyper Force concept, but with EV adoption growing slower than expected and several manufacturers shifting towards hybrids, the company now appears to be exploring alternative approaches, with a hybrid setup more likely for the R36.

Global model to meet stricter emissions norms

Nissan R35 GT-R image used for reference only.

Nissan aims to make the next GT-R a global model, which will require compliance with stricter regulations, including upcoming Euro 7 emissions norms.

Pandikuthira noted that the current R35 GT-R’s powertrain would not meet future emissions requirements in several markets, making electrification necessary for the next-generation GT-R.