2018 Nissan GT-R Pure brings lower entry price for US buyers
Nissan introduces the GT-R Pure trim for 2018 in the US, cutting the starting price below $100,000 but omitting luxury features found on higher trims.
Nissan has launched the 2018 GT-R in the United States with a new Pure base version, reducing the starting price to $99,990 before destination charges. This marks the first time since the previous generation that American buyers can order a new GT-R for less than $100,000, as the outgoing entry-level Premium trim had climbed to $111,685 including destination.
The Pure trim achieves its lower price by omitting several features found on higher-spec GT-Rs. Buyers forego the Bose 11-speaker sound system, active noise cancellation, titanium exhaust, and hand-stitched leather interior. Mechanically, however, the Pure remains identical to the Premium and Track Edition, with the same 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 delivering 565hp and 467lb ft of torque. The six-speed dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive system also carry over unchanged.
How the GT-R Pure compares to other trims
The GT-R Premium now starts at $112,185, while the Track Edition is listed at $130,185, both prices reflecting a $500 increase over the previous year. The flagship GT-R Nismo, with its 600hp engine, begins at $177,185. For 2018, all models equipped with navigation gain Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a new "Kuro Night" interior trim option is available across the range.
| Trim | Starting Price (USD) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Pure | $99,990 | Standard performance, fewer luxury features |
| Premium | $112,185 | Bose audio, leather trim, titanium exhaust |
| Track Edition | $130,185 | Performance upgrades, limited edition |
| Nismo | $177,185 | 600hp engine, track-focused features |
Performance unchanged across the range
Despite the reduced price, the GT-R Pure offers the same performance as its more expensive siblings. The 3.8-litre V6 remains hand-assembled and delivers identical acceleration and top speed. The omission of luxury features may appeal to buyers focused on performance rather than comfort or in-car technology.
