Nissan launched their most hardcore version of the 2017 GT-R at the Nurburgring, the same place where it was developed, tested and signed off.

Just like the standard GT-R, the NISMO version comes with a restyled front end, highlighted by a new and more aggressive bumper, a larger dark chrome V-motion grille and a reinforced hood that’s supposed to avoid deformation at extremely high speeds.

However, unlike the regular model, the NISMO’s front bumpers are made out of carbon fiber as designers looked to achieve the ideal amount of stiffness in a car built specifically for breaking lap records. Overall, the new GT-R NISMO generates more downforce than any other Nissan production car to date.

In terms of power, while the regular 2017 GT-R puts down 570 PS (20 PS more than the 2016 model), the NISMO is good for 600 PS (441 kW), the same as before but more enjoyable thanks to the stiffened body structure and upgraded shock absorbers, springs and stabilizers. Compared to the last NISMO, the 2017 model’s slalom times and cornering performance have been improved by 2%.

The 2017 NISMO’s 3.8-liter V6 also features a pair of high-flow, large-diameter turbochargers used in GT3 competition. While Nissan haven’t released any official figures, its 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint should remain at a (still supercar-humbling) 2.8 seconds.

Inside the car you’ll find that the 2017 GT-R’s redesigned dashboard and steering wheel have been covered with high-quality Alcantara, as has the center armrest. Other differences between the NISMO and the regular 2017 GT-R would be the leather-appointed Recaro carbon bucket seats and the red Alcantara inserts found throughout the cabin.

According to chief product specialist Hiroshi Tamura, the GT-R NISMO “emphasizes the ‘R’ in its nomenclature. Its direct ties with racing makes it at home on any racetrack, providing the highest levels of excitement and exhilaration for the driver. With the 2017 GT-R as a starting point, the new NISMO version has become a more well-balanced machine, with not just increased performance, but a heightened premium feel overall. It is the result of our relentless pursuit of ultimate driving pleasure.”

Available in five different exterior colors, the 2017 Nissan GT-R NISMO is assembled in Tochigi, Japan, with the engines assembled by hand in Yokohama, Japan.

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