Nissan has confirmed the end of production for its legendary GT-R sports car, a flagship of the company’s performance engineering for nearly two decades. The announcement coincides with the launch of a significantly updated X-Trail SUV, which introduces Google’s infotainment system to Nissan’s domestic lineup for the first time, signalling a pivotal shift in the brand’s focus towards advanced technology and mainstream models.
An Icon Retires: The GT-R’s Final Chapter
Nissan announced on Tuesday that the final GT-R has rolled off the production line at its Tochigi Plant, bringing an 18-year production run to a close. The company cited increasing difficulties in meeting evolving regulations and sourcing key components as the primary reasons for the decision. For the first time in 18 years, the revered “GT-R” name will be absent from Nissan’s new vehicle roster.
The final car, a special edition finished in “Midnight Purple,” is destined for a customer in Japan. While this marks the end of the current generation, Nissan’s President, Ivan Espinosa, hinted that the story is not over. “While there is no definitive plan at this moment, the GT-R will evolve and will make a return,” he commented, suggesting a future revival of the iconic nameplate.
First appearing in 1969 as a high-performance racing variant of the Skyline, the GT-R was reborn in 2007 as a standalone model. It quickly earned a global reputation as a supercar-beater and an icon of Nissan’s engineering prowess. Its engines were famously hand-assembled by a small team of just nine master craftsmen, known as “Takumi,” at the Yokohama factory. Over its 18-year lifespan, approximately 48,000 units of this celebrated performance car were produced.
A New Direction: The Upgraded X-Trail
As one chapter closes, another begins with the launch of a comprehensively updated Nissan X-Trail. Already popular for its combination of a premium design and advanced powertrain—featuring the second-generation e-POWER system and e-4ORCE electric all-wheel-drive technology—the SUV’s appeal has been broadened with a host of enhancements. This facelift focuses on delivering a more refined design, superior technology, and greater personalisation.
Enhanced Styling and On-Board Tech
The exterior of the X-Trail has been given a more sophisticated look. A new front grille with a precise, horizontal slat pattern creates a more upmarket appearance. The signature two-tier headlights are now accentuated by always-on daytime running lamps, and both front and rear indicators have been upgraded to LEDs. A gloss black finish on the lower front bumper, combined with satin silver accents on select grades, further enhances its road presence, which is complemented by a new, modern geometric design for the optional 19-inch alloy wheels.
Inside, the cabin’s refinement has been elevated with a black finish for the upper dashboard. The optional Nappa leather trim is now offered in a rich, subtle brown, replacing the previous tan. A new fabric for the seats features a “Japanese Modern” weave, blending intricate texture with a dynamic feel. Practicality has also been improved, with all front and rear USB ports now updated to the modern Type-C standard, while popular features like the wireless charging tray and large centre console box have been retained.
The most significant upgrade is the introduction of a new NissanConnect infotainment system, which is Nissan’s first in Japan to feature Google Built-in. This integrates Google Maps for navigation, Google Assistant for voice control of vehicle functions and searches, and the Google Play Store for downloading a wide range of apps. The system also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, alongside NissanConnect Services and an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot.
Greater Choice and Personalisation
The updated X-Trail range now includes a new “ROCK CREEK” grade, designed with a more rugged, “tough gear” aesthetic for adventurous owners.
Further customisation is available through the new “SOTOASOBI Package.” This outdoor-themed pack includes a matte black bonnet protector, tough black fender garnishes, and a unique emblem. It can be fitted to both the standard X-Trail and the new ROCK CREEK grade. In a move that will be welcomed by existing owners, Nissan is also making a version of the SOTOASOBI Package available for the previous T32 generation X-Trail.
For those seeking a sportier edge, Nissan’s customisation arm, Nissan Motorsport & Customizing (NMC), has also refreshed the “AUTECH” models. Alongside cosmetic updates in line with the base car, the AUTECH variant benefits from the new Google infotainment system and safety cameras. Furthermore, the X-Trail lineup will now feature a new “AUTECH Sport Spec” model, which includes specialised tuning for handling and acceleration, joining similar performance-oriented versions of the Serena and Note Aura.
