Nissan Gives GT-R More Power; Showcases ‘Takumi’ Skills

Nissan today unveiled a fresher 2017 GT-R at the New York Auto Show, announcing that the 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 will get a 20-horsepower boost and a little more torque. The automaker also released a video showcasing the five engine builders responsible for all GT-R engines and their assembly procedures in a specialized facility.

Only five master engine builders, or takumi, produce all the Nissan GT-R engines.

Known as “takumi,” these master mechanics follow the “one man, one engine” philosophy of engine building for production vehicles. We noticed this trend in other premium vehicles, such as the Mercedes AMG line. We’ve seen the takumi in action before when Jay Leno offered a helping hand in the assembly room.

The takumi say they can find gaps — even down to a few microns — that machines can’t, and that they “can feel something is amiss.” In one of the scenes from the above video, the takumi lay their hands on the engine during dyno break-in, almost becoming one with the engine to evaluate every vibration and nuance under the valve covers. The video also give an insider’s look at the assembly facility and unique tools at their disposal.

As for the extra power, Nissan says it jacked up the turbo boost and implemented individual cylinder timing controls. There’s also a new titanium exhaust system. Total power is now 565 horsepower with 467 lb-ft peak torque. The 0-60 time for the updated GT-R is now 2.7 seconds.

Jay Leno has visited the tukumi and observed their engine building skills. Check out the link in the story.

About the author

Mike Magda

Mike Magda is a veteran automotive writer with credits in publications such as Racecar Engineering, Hot Rod, Engine Technology International, Motor Trend, Automobile, Automotive Testing Technology and Professional Motorsport World.
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