The base GT-R is where the R35 generation started: a standalone AWD sports car that directly succeeded the Skyline GT-R, no longer wearing the Skyline name. Nissan began deliveries in Japan in December 2007, with the US getting its first cars in July 2008 as an early-release 2009 model. Power comes from the 3.8-liter twin-turbo VR38DETT V6, sent to all four wheels through Nissan's ATTESA E-TS AWD system and a six-speed dual-clutch transaxle co-developed with BorgWarner.
In the US, the base GT-R was sold alongside the better-equipped GT-R Premium for the 2009 and 2010 model years, then dropped for 2011, when Premium became the sole US trim.
US NHTSA campaigns for this model. A listed campaign may not apply to a particular car, and may already have been remedied — check a specific car by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
It's a real, documented risk. Owners have filed complaints with NHTSA describing dual-clutch failures well short of typical drivetrain life — in a couple of cases quoted around $18,000 to replace, and one case losing multiple gears around 8,500 miles. Overall complaint volume for this generation is low, though, so it isn't the majority experience. A transmission history check and a specialist pre-purchase inspection are worth prioritizing given the repair cost.
© 2026 SPORTS CARS, ETC. LLC