Nissan GT-R

Twelve months on, our reigning champion is now officially on sale in Britain, and winning over new owners with its devastating performance.

It only took a few moments at the wheel of the Nissan GT-R to remind us why this technological tour de force finished in top spot last year. The switch and dial-laden dash will cause information overload for some, and the cabin materials aren’t exotic. But none of this matters on the move – as this sub-£60,000 Nissan matches the performance of supercars costing twice as much.

With the help of electronic wizardry and meticulously engineered mechanicals, it’s fast and secure on the road. Our UK model lapped the 1.2-mile circuit three-tenths-of-a-second quicker than the speed-limited Japanese-spec car we had last year. Effortless acceleration and fast gearshifts, via the paddle-controlled dual-clutch transmission, make the Nissan a joy to use. Phenomenal grip and body control also mean the GT-R overcomes its size and weight to corner at astonishing pace.

With positive steering and immense traction, you learn to apply the throttle harder as the front tyres lose grip. This prompts the 4x4 system to transfer power to the rear to improve balance, allowing you to maintain speed through the bend.

The amazing abilities of 2009’s top three force the GT-R off the podium. It lacks the feedback of the Porsche GT3, while brake fade and tyre temperatures prevent it repeating its fastest times lap after lap. Yet with its technology, pace and price, the Nissan remains one of the finest performance cars around.

CLICK HERE FOR AN EXCLUSIVE ON BOARD HOT-LAP IN THE NISSAN GT-R