Motor Show: Tokyo 2007: Nissan GT-R

Such was the interest in the new 473bhp 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6 super-coupe that photographers were paying people to secure a good position for them. When Nissan's superstar CEO Carlos Ghosn eventually revealed the car he boldly taunted rivals by saying: 'Anyone, anywhere, any time.' He called the new GT-R the 'master of any road'.

In these green-conscious times Ghosn was quick to point out that the GT-R could reach Japan's U-LEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) standards despite its ability to reach 62mph in just 3.6 seconds. Fuel consumption is quoted at around 34mpg, making it a remarkably economical performance car.

Additionally, NISMO, Nissan's motorsport arm, has confirmed that the new GT-R will have a racing pedigree. The Japanese firm announced that GT-Rs will compete in the domestic Super GT race series next season, a championship previously dominated by GT-Rs.

The decision and official involvement by NISMO in the racecar's development has fuelled rumours that Nissan's supercar could compete in Europe in the near future. This could eventually lead, enthusiasts hope, to GT-Rs once again doing battle on the infamous Mulsanne straight at Le Mans.

UK fans will be disappointed to hear that the GT-R won't officially be available here until 2009, Japan and the US getting it first. It's likely that GT-R will be offered in the UK in a single model range with a heavily specified option pack, like the 350Z.

UK prices remain unconfirmed, but a GT-R Premium Edition will be offered in Japan for 8,347,500 yen, or around £35,660. Don't expect any change from £50,000 when the GT-R eventually arrives in the UK. If the wait is too long then there's always a PlayStation 3 and Gran Turismo 5.

Video: Nissan GT-R

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