98 January 2014 www.bahrainthismonth.com motoring Evolution never stops for the Nissan GT-R. The brand’s halo sports car, which is a successor to the legendary Skyline GT-R, was reincarnated in 2007. On launch it instantly made waves in the automotive industry for its exceptional levels of performance. In October 2012, the GT-R broke its old record with a time of 7:18 seconds, making it the ninth fastest ever production car to lap the infamous Nürburgring. The GT-R underwent a minor facelift in 2011, and is now being improved again for 2014. The new model offers smoother ride comfort, more refinement and benchmark fit and finish, while still delivering breathtaking levels of performance. There have been several improvements made to the chassis that have increased the performance and ride comfort. To begin with, the suspension was fine-tuned to reduced load fluctuation between the four wheels, giving better stability and more consistent grip. More constant tyre contact is achieved by optimised electronic control of the shock-absorber valves, as well as modified front stabilizer spring rates and updated bush link. The tuning of these parts, which makes best use of the suspension strokes and enhances road-holding capability, gives a poised, confident ride and outstanding traction on rough roads. In addition, the braking calibration has been retuned for a more firm, linear response at everyday speeds. Braking is more intuitive and smoother, generating greater confidence, particularly in wet conditions. Each part of the chassis is made of materials selected for optimum performance. The precision-constructed, multimaterial hybrid body combines steel, carbon fibre and die-cast aluminium to achieve high stiffness and light weight. Thanks to the rigidity of the GT-R’s body construction, suspension precision is guaranteed while refinement is enhanced, resulting in exceptional cabin refinement even at high speeds and under hard cornering. And finally, the GT-R’s steering has been fine-tuned to reduce the effort required for in-town manoeuvres, while maintaining its exceptional feedback during high-speed driving. The combination of retuned suspension and exceptional steering feel give outstanding confidence at high speeds. The refinements continue on the interior of the car as well. There is now a choice of three interior colour schemes, which includes a new pale ivory trim option. The steering wheel is trimmed in leather, for premium tactility, while the part-aniline leather seats are further embellished with stitched accents, giving the ambience of a genuine GT designed for cross-continental, first-class travel. Overall, all these elements have combined to make an already superb sports car even better. E Call 17 732-732. Though it’s hard to believe, Nissan’s iconic sports car has been improved even further for the 2014 model year. Evolution of an Icon Y.K. ALMOAYYED & SONS
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