Nissan GT-R V-Spec

Rapid Japanese super-coupe records an incredible lap time at the Nurburgring.

It’s the Japanese supercar that’s heading for pole position – the Nissan GT-R V-Spec! Our spies have captured video footage of the hot newcomer as test drivers put it through its paces around the Nurburgring.

And the performance flagship is taking the famous German circuit by storm. Aided by a 550bhp version of the existing 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6, liberal use of carbonfibre to keep weight down and a larger spoiler at the rear, the V-Spec has lapped the ‘ring in a mere 7min 25secs – that’s at least 13 seconds quicker than the standard GT-R.

As you can see, it certainly looks like it means business too. As well as a bigger downforce-inducing spoiler, the V-Spec gets new black, ultra-light alloys, which barely fit inside the wheelarches. The unique six-spoke design allows more air to reach the carbon-ceramic brakes, keeping them cool and reducing the chance of fade. There’s also a new rear diffuser to improve airflow for better stability too.

Expect a £75,000 price tag when the V-Spec officially reaches the UK some time in 2010.