NISSAN has announced the launch of the 2011 manufacturing year Nissan GT-R, which goes on sale on Nov 17 at Nissan dealers nationwide in Japan.

The new GT-R features improved engine output and torque, greater fuel efficiency, revised handling, a refreshed exterior with improved aerodynamics, revised interior treatment and new wheels and tyres.

Some of the key enhancements relate to the engine and transmission. By modifying the boost pressure of the turbocharger, valve timing and air mixture ratio, reducing intake air resistance by enlarging the inlet pipe diameter, and reducing exhaust air resistance through use of an enlarged section of exhaust pipe, fuel economy is improved to to a claimed 11.8 litres/100km

A new save mode is adopted, which optimises driving torque and modifies the shift schedule to improve actual fuel economy when driving highways or open roads. This mode also helps reduce ankle fatigue.

At the same time, the engine output is upped to 530bhp at 6,400rpm with maximum torque of 612Nm from 3,200rpm to 6,000rpm. A new red colour engine cover is used to signify its greater performance.

Handling-wise, the new GT-R purports greater body stability and strength and improved aerodynamics performance.

To control tight corner braking phenomenon, which can occur when starting the vehicle while turning the steering wheel, a 2WD mode has been added.

A highly rigid, lightweight strut supporting bar, made of carbon composite with aluminum honeycomb material, is installed in the partition wall of the engine compartment.By linking the right and left struts to quickly receive suspension input, the vehicle body's responsiveness to driving operation is also stepped up.

Nissan has also enhanced the level of after-sales support for GT-R owners.

The "World of GT-R" expands again this year with the addition of a racing circuit use-only edition and an ultra-exclusive version that can be custom-ordered according to the precise desires of each individual customer.

Starting performance while selecting "R mode" for the transmission and VDC-R is improved.

The Nissan GT-R will also be released in North America, Europe and other regions after February 2011.