The 2024 Nissan GT-R comes in two main trims with distinct performance and comfort differences
The 2024 Nissan GT-R is offered in Premium and Nismo trims. The Premium trim is the base model, built around the core GT-R experience with the twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 565 horsepower. The Nismo trim adds track-focused upgrades including a reinforced chassis, upgraded suspension tuning, carbon-fiber aerodynamic pieces, and Brembo brakes designed for sustained high-performance driving. Both trims share the same transmission — a dual-clutch automatic — and all-wheel-drive system.
The choice between them depends on how you plan to use the car. The Premium trim handles daily driving and occasional spirited road use. The Nismo trim is engineered for drivers who track the car regularly or want maximum performance capability from the factory. Nismo models cost roughly $20,000 more than Premium models, though exact pricing varies by year and market conditions.
Key Takeaways
- The Premium trim delivers the full GT-R experience with 565 horsepower and is suitable for street driving and occasional performance use.
- The Nismo trim adds a stiffer suspension, carbon-fiber body parts, upgraded brakes, and a reinforced frame specifically for track use.
- Both trims use the same 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission with all-wheel drive.
- Interior features like leather seating, navigation, and infotainment systems are available on both trims but vary in standard versus optional equipment.
Engine and transmission options across both trims
Every 2024 GT-R uses the same 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. This engine is not offered in different power levels — all models produce 565 horsepower and 467 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that cannot be replaced with a manual option. This transmission is the only gearbox available, regardless of trim level.
The dual-clutch system allows for rapid gear changes and is tuned to work with the GT-R's all-wheel-drive system. Launch control, which helps optimize acceleration from a standstill, comes standard on both trims. The transmission offers selectable drive modes — including a track mode that adjusts shift timing and throttle response — but the underlying hardware remains identical between Premium and Nismo models.
Suspension and handling differences between trims
The Premium trim uses a double-wishbone independent suspension with electronically controlled dampers. This setup balances comfort on public roads with responsive handling. The Nismo trim upgrades to a stiffer suspension geometry with different spring rates and damper tuning optimized for track conditions. Nismo models also receive a reinforced chassis with additional bracing, which reduces flex during hard cornering and braking.
Both trims include an electronically controlled limited-slip differential and an all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring — technology that sends power to individual wheels to improve cornering. The Nismo's suspension changes make it less compliant over rough pavement but more stable at high speeds and during sustained cornering. If you drive primarily on public roads, the Premium suspension will feel more refined. If you plan track days, the Nismo's stiffer setup will feel more planted.
Brake and wheel configurations
The Premium trim comes with Brembo brakes — a high-performance brand — but the Nismo trim receives upgraded Brembo components with larger rotors and more aggressive pad material. Both use four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking and brake information. The Nismo's brakes are designed to handle repeated hard stops during track sessions without fade.
Wheel options differ between trims. The Premium trim is typically fitted with 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, while the Nismo trim uses a different 20-inch design with a more aggressive appearance. Both wheel sizes carry the same tire size, but Nismo wheels are lighter and use a different offset. Tire options remain the same across both trims — Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires are standard, chosen for their grip and track capability.
Interior and technology features by trim
The Premium trim includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats with heating, and a 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Climate control is dual-zone automatic. The Nismo trim adds Recaro performance seats with more aggressive bolstering, carbon-fiber interior trim pieces, and the same infotainment system. Both trims offer navigation as an option, though it is not standard on either model.
Audio systems differ slightly. The Premium trim includes a Bose sound system with eight speakers. The Nismo trim upgrades to a Bose system with additional speakers and subwoofer. Neither trim offers a premium audio brand beyond Bose. Rear seats are present on both models but are genuinely small — the GT-R is a two-plus-two configuration designed primarily for front occupants.
Safety and driver information systems
Both the Premium and Nismo trims include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning as standard. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also included. These systems cannot be removed or downgraded on either trim. The Nismo trim does not add additional safety features beyond what the Premium offers — the focus of Nismo upgrades is performance, not safety technology.
The GT-R does not offer adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping information, features common on other high-performance sports cars. The emphasis is on driver control and engagement rather than autonomous driving aids. All models include a backup camera and parking sensors, which are useful given the car's wide body and limited rear visibility.
Color and exterior customization options
The 2024 GT-R is available in multiple exterior colors including Jet Black, Pearl White Multi-Coat, Midnight Purple, Gun Metallic, and Solid Red. These colors are available on both Premium and Nismo trims. The Nismo trim's carbon-fiber body parts — front splitter, side skirts, and rear wing — are not offered on the Premium trim and cannot be added as standalone options. If you want the Nismo's aerodynamic upgrades, you must purchase the Nismo trim.
Interior color options are limited. Both trims offer black leather as the standard interior. Nismo models add the option of a black and red leather combination, which is not available on Premium models. Steering wheel color and seat stitching can vary slightly, but these are not major customization points compared to exterior choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get the Nismo suspension on a Premium trim?
No. The Nismo suspension, reinforced chassis, and upgraded brakes are exclusive to the Nismo trim and are not sold as separate options for Premium models. You must purchase the full Nismo trim to receive these upgrades.
Is there a manual transmission option for the 2024 GT-R?
No. All 2024 GT-R models use only the 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Nissan has not offered a manual transmission in the GT-R since 2022. The dual-clutch system is the sole transmission choice across both trims.
What is the difference between the wheels on Premium and Nismo trims?
Both use 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, but the Nismo wheels have a different design and lighter weight. The tire size is identical on both trims. The Nismo wheels are not sold separately and cannot be added to a Premium model.
Does the Nismo trim include more interior features than Premium?
The Nismo trim adds Recaro performance seats and carbon-fiber interior trim, plus an upgraded Bose audio system. The infotainment system, navigation, and climate control are the same on both trims. Nismo's upgrades focus on performance and visual differentiation rather than comfort or convenience features.
Can I add carbon-fiber body parts to a Premium GT-R?
The factory carbon-fiber aerodynamic pieces are exclusive to the Nismo trim and are not sold as aftermarket options through Nissan. Aftermarket carbon-fiber parts are available from third-party manufacturers, but factory Nismo pieces cannot be purchased separately.