NASHVILLE -- A new lighter-weight version of the Nissan GT-R model will be considered for the U.S. market after its limited introduction in Japan next month.
Nissan has trimmed 132 pounds out of the just-introduced $70,000 sportscar's 3,814 pounds. The new SpecV model drops the street racer's rear seats and replaces selected body, chassis and interior components with carbon fiber materials.
A spokesman for Nissan North America says the company will evaluate the SpecV's performance and customer reaction before deciding whether to give it to U.S. dealers. It will be available initially to only seven dealerships in Japan.
The new two-seater variation uses a carbon fiber rear spoiler, grille, brake parts and bucket seats, with carbon fiber replacements also in the car's instrument panel and storage area.
Such enhancements are normally the engineering stuff automakers showcase at the Detroit auto show, which opens to the world media this weekend in Detroit. However, Nissan North America withdrew from the Detroit show in November, citing cost-cutting needs.
SOURCE:autonews
