The R35 Nissan GT-R ended production in 2025, after an impressive 18 years on sale, a remarkably long lifespan for any car. Now, attention turns to its successor, the rumored R36. Launched in 2007, the R35’s longevity is unprecedented, spanning nearly two decades—a period that, while not quite witnessing the rise and fall of empires, certainly saw significant automotive evolution.

In 2024, Nissan’s then-chief planning officer, Ivan Espinosa, confirmed “there is a project” for a new GT-R. Speaking to Motor1, Espinosa emphasized the GT-R’s status as an industry icon, promising its return with the same revered credentials.

Design hints from Nissan concepts

Details remain scarce, but Nissan’s Concept 2020 and Hyper Force concepts offer clues. Both feature GT-R design cues, including the iconic quad circular tail lights. The 2014 Concept 2020, part of the Vision Gran Turismo project, hinted at a hybrid powertrain and retained classic GT-R elements like a front-mounted twin-turbo six-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive. The 2023 Hyper Force, unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, showcased a fully electric vision with its super-angular design and minimalist GT-R badge, though Nissan has since ruled out an all-electric R36. Global product strategy boss Richard Candler stated, “We’re not going to go with batteries in the next generation. No way.”

Hybrid powertrain likely for R36 GT-R

The R36’s development continues amid Nissan’s broader challenges, including financial restructuring and job cuts. The company is cutting around 20,000 jobs, closing two factories, and pausing development on several models. Despite these hurdles, the GT-R’s return as a hybrid promises to uphold its legacy as an industry icon.

Enthusiasts await Godzilla’s return

The R36 GT-R, nicknamed “Godzilla” by enthusiasts, is expected to blend tradition with innovation. As Nissan handles its financial challenges, the R36 represents a commitment to its performance heritage, with Espinosa affirming its development despite broader corporate struggles.