Nissan announces 2010 GT-R for U.S.

After completely changing the paradigm of supercar design and performance in its first year of availability in North America, the affordable, “anyone, anytime, anywhere” Nissan GT-R returns for its sophomore year with a revised 2010 model featuring a number of minor updates – including five additional horsepower, new suspension, revised wheel finishes and standard front seat-mounted and roof-mounted curtain side impact air bags.

In addition to the change in output, which rises from 480 to 485hp, the significant change is the introduction of a new Transmission Control Module (TCM) program for the GT-R’s 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. The changes have been well documented and have come as a reaction to the monumental gearbox failures experienced by some customers using the launch control system on the original spec GT-R. Essentially, the changes are designed to optimize clutch engagement for improved drivability and improve vehicle acceleration with the car’s traction control system switched on.

Other changes to the car include an updated braking system with more rigid brake lines and brake calipers with both Nissan and Brembo labeling. The suspension also gets retuned with redesigned Bilstein shocks featuring a new valve body design and revised spring and damper rates.

The standard 20in forged aluminum-alloy wheels get a slightly darker finish and are shod with new Dunlop summer tires. Finally, a Pearl White paint scheme is now also available.

No details on pricing have been revealed but don’t expect much change from the $81,790 starting price of the base 2009 GT-R.