My FH5 Log: Not everyone's Sylphy

Obtained from the FH5 Horizon Road Trip Hot Season Playlist, the not-for-Japan NISMO version of the Nissan Sylphy B17 is now under my care and looks like we're gonna have some one-on-one time with the hot Sylphy that Japan never got.

The Sentra Nismo is powered by the same 1.6L DIG Turbo engine that powers the Nissan Juke. It produces 188HP of power and 177ft-lb of torque and the gearbox of choice is an XTRONIC CVT and a 6-speed manual gearbox. Apart from the Juke-sourced engine, the Sentra NISMO handles pretty much like a hot hatch because of the NISMO-tuned suspension, NISMO-tweaked Electric Power Steering, 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and sports tires.

Of course, with the Sylphy removed from Nissan's lineup in Japan with no direct successor, meaning it's too late for a Sylphy NISMO due to such cowardice, it's time to give the Nissan Sylphy B17 with the NISMO version not available in Japan a quick send-off with a little race, a fitting tribute to the last FF sedan to be removed from Nissan's Japanese lineup. Roll the tape.

With that, goodbye my dear Sylphy. You made us proud until the very end.

Enjoy your new ride!

Nissan X-Trail T33

After years of waiting, the fourth-generation Nissan X-Trail has arrived and this new model becomes the new standard of Nissan because, for the first time, the new model features a bold new powertrain; a combination of the second-generation e-Power and the VC-TURBO engine. So, what's it all about the all-new X-Trail?

2023 Nissan X-Trail

Starting at 3,198,800 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the all-new Nissan X-Trail T33 rewrote the crossover rules with its new powertrain the competition never saw it coming. It's the first Nissan sold in Japan to have a VC-TURBO engine while mated to the new-generation e-Power first applied on the current Nissan Note. More with that later on but first, the design.

2023 Nissan X-Trail

Beginning with the design, the all-new X-Trail features a masculine look compared to its predecessor. Sure, the sideline and the rear sight look awkwardly similar to its main rival, the Toyota RAV4, but the front view is too radical for a Japanese crossover so it's a knife edge when you best describe it.

2023 Nissan X-Trail

2023 Nissan X-Trail AUTECH

Of course, that's just the normal look for the new model because the all-new X-Trail can be specified with an adventure-oriented XTREMER-X and the custom-tailored AUTECH variant with glossier looks. Whichever X-Trail you're on, it's all business.

2023 Nissan X-Trail interior

What about the interior? Nissan says the new interior is a true "family hub" designed to provide comfort and utility for all. From a choice of five-seater and seven-seater configurations, complete with foldable rear seats, tri-zone climate control, a motion-activated tailgate, hidden storage, and tons of compartments to store stuff, it's all about practicality the Nissan way. Gadgetry? Well, let's see, you have the 12.3-inch NissanConnect display screen with smartphone connectivity, 10.8-inch HUD, USB-A and USB-C ports, sure, this crossover packs some serious gadgetry on the go. Boot space? It's good for 585 liters, which is 20 liters more than the previous model.

2023 Nissan X-Trail

Time to uncover the X-Trail's unique powertrain that combines the 1.5L KR15DDT VC-Turbo engine and the second-generation e-POWER. For a quick recap about these two; the first one is a variable compression ratio engine that is capable of delivering an optimal compression ratio from performance to efficiency. It's a petrol engine that behaves like a diesel engine. Enough said. e-POWER? Well, this hybrid powertrain lets the electric motor do the talking while the petrol engine charges the batteries. This powertrain delivers 204PS of total power output and while mated to a CVT, the fuel economy is 19.7kmpl based on WLTC Mode standards, a tad less than the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid.

Supplementing this unique powertrain is Nissan's revolutionary e-4ORCE 4WD system derived from the Ariya. Of course, you are already familiar with e-4ORCE but for those who keep asking the same question, e-4ORCE manages power output and braking performance for each wheel, making handling everywhere worth enjoyable without the drama involved.

While the e-4ORCE deserves a lot of attention, the use of the CMF-C platform, rear multilink suspension, ventilated disc brakes, and rack-and-pinion steering, the new X-Trail feels as simple and as civilized as any commoners should.

In terms of safety, Nissan's Intelligent Mobility goes full circle with the new X-Trail. From its Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking, advanced headlamp technology, and many other active safety features, it's all about being prepared for the trip.

The e-POWER VC-TURBO combination, the muscular looks, the refined interior, the tech, the Nissan X-Trail T33 had it all. Like it or not, this could be your next ride worth living.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Nissan Fairlady Z RZ34

For over five decades, the Nissan Fairlady Z became the second-best thing to come out since the iconic Skyline GT-R. From the Safari to Suzuka, its motorsport pedigree has become the hallmark of the Z lineage. In the midst of the new normal, Nissan didn't give up on the Z bloodline so they've launched the ultimate Z ever made, and the world's on fire with this new version.

2023 Nissan Fairlady Z

Priced at 5,241,500 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the reborn Fairlady Z promises to be the ultimate Z car speedo boys are yearning for. Despite its new looks, there's something odd about this car. Why stick to the Z34 chassis code? The styling inspired by the Z Proto concept looks brand new to them but it's still a Z34 underneath, therefore it's still a Heisei-era car recalibrated for the Reiwa era. Still, because most of the stuff is new, they've labeled this Fairlady Z as the RZ34 and the R stands for Reiwa. It's a Z34 reworked for the Reiwa era.

2023 Nissan Fairlady Z

Like the Z Proto concept, the front design draws inspiration from the 240ZG, while the side view is inspired by the original S30 Fairlady Z, and the rear view design is inspired by the Z32. Although similarly sized compared to the previous Z34, the retro-inspired design is the stuff of legends.

2023 Nissan Fairlady Z interior

The interior is newly reworked and driver-focused so speedo boys can enjoy driving behind the wheel. From its triple pod cluster, race-inspired gauges, a GT-R-styled steering wheel, and new performance seats, the new interior gives drivers the feeling of driving a race car on the road and track, from the Tokyo highways to the corners of Suzuka Circuit.

2023 Nissan Fairlady Z

Because the Fairlady Z RZ34 is all about returning from its roots, it's now powered by a 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine lifted from the Skyline V37 400R. It produces 405PS of power, and 475Nm of torque, and can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed AT. In addition to the new monotube shocks, new front geometry, increased rigidity, available sport brakes, mechanical LSD, and rear suspension tuning, the RZ34 features, for the first time, available launch control and electric power steering. The latter can be somewhat upsetting for purists behind the wheel just like the time when the Porsche 911 991 comes with it. 

Despite being bulky to drive due to the electric power steering drama, it's still worth an enjoyable car to drive on the road and on the track. Whether you're beating the rush hour traffic or beating personal lap times, the Fairlady Z RZ34's improved dynamics are what made it the best Z car to drive full-stop. As for fuel economy, the RZ34 is good from 9.5 to 10.2km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

Because being the Z car built for the new normal, the Fairlady Z RZ34 features Nissan Intelligent Mobility, which is a range of active safety systems consisting of Intelligent Cruise Control, Intelligent FCW, LDW, Hill Start Assist, BSW, RCTA, Hi-Beam Assist, Intelligent Emergency Brake, front and back sonar, and more. Although startling for speedo boys behind the wheel, who cares about them. Some speedo boys are toying around with autonomous tech nowadays.

The Fairlady Z RZ34 is still a Heisei-era Z-car underneath but the improvements really made the RZ34 the Z car fit for the Reiwa era. The European-built, BMW Z4-derived Toyota GR Supra should be worrying right now because its worst nightmare has come true in the form of the Nissan Fairlady Z RZ34.

It may be known as the ultimate Fairlady Z ever made, but it made a lot of bitter sacrifices to become a living thing such as losing its European fans because of the fact that Nissan will not sell the RZ34 to the Old Continent for numerous reasons. For speedo boys in America, Japan, and other countries permitted to sell it, will the RZ34 Fairlady Z be hit or a miss?  Only time will tell...

Available colors: Ikazuchi Yellow/Super Black 2-Tone, Seiran Blue/Super Black 2-Tone, Carmine Red/Super Black 2-Tone, Stealth Grey/Super Black 2-Tone, Brilliant Silver/Super Black 2-Tone, Prism White/Super Black 2-Tone, Burgundy, Dark Metal Grey, and Midnight Black.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Nissan Sakura

Back in the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan showcased their iMK Concept, which previews an electric kei car fit for production. Nissan fulfilled the iMK Concept's promise for a production model and christened it as...oh no...Nissan named their first-ever electric kei car after a popular anime magical girl character and that name will make everyone sing the beginning of the "Groovy" song.

2023 Nissan Sakura

Yes, the greatest fear has been confirmed. Nissan christened their first kei EV car as S-A-K-U-R-A. Sakura! Get it? It's called the Nissan Sakura and it starts at 2,399,100 Japanese Yen plus additional costs. It's a real shocker why Nissan named this car after a popular anime magical girl from the late 90s but whatever the reason, those who have past traumas over that name should persuade their families not to buy this car and instead go for the Mitsubishi eK X EV, judging from the fact that the Nissan Sakura is basically a Mitsubishi eK X EV underneath. Good luck stopping your family and friends from getting Little Miss Sakura because they're willing to buy it and humiliate you for all eternity. Cue the Groovy song.

2023 Nissan Sakura

The Sakura's styling is heavily inspired by the iMK Concept as seen at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, fulfilling the concept's promise of a production model. Although it's as small as the Dayz, the Sakura incorporates Nissan's new styling direction debuted from the Ariya SUV, meaning from every angle, it's truly a Nissan. No explanations are needed.

2023 Nissan Sakura interior

The Sakura's interior mimics the layout from the Ariya as well while the shift knob and the climate control are almost identical to the Mitsubishi eK X EV's, which is of course the Sakura's based from. In terms of creature comforts, the Sakura can fit up to four people and its boot space is best-in-class as Nissan claims, making it a dependable partner for all walks of life.

2023 Nissan Sakura

The Sakura is powered by an MM48 electric motor and a 20 kWh li-ion battery pack that powers its front wheels, generating 47kW of power output, 195Nm of torque output, and has a driving range of 180km in one full charge based on WLTC Mode standards. Apart from its electric drivetrain fit for city use, the Sakura has Rack & Pinion power steering, front strut suspension, rear torque arm 3-link suspension, front ventilated disc brakes, and rear Reading Trailing Drum brakes. For a kei electric car that weighs over a ton, it's still usable and easy to drive as expected.

In addition to the Leaf-inspired e-Pedal Step feature that allows users to drive and stop using one pedal, the Sakura features ProPilot advanced driving aids, ProPilot Parking, and 360° Safety Assist. These cutting-edge safety features are proof that Little Miss Sakura's ready to go home safe and sound for all of her loyalists to see.

With Little Miss Sakura arriving in Sakura New Town, looks like her fans are ready to place orders on her right away because, as expected, this is Sakura! What more do you want to ask about the electric car that was named after the anime character from the late 90s?! After all, those who have childhood traumas about Sakura should better turn away and buy its Mitsubishi eK X EV instead, which is slightly cheaper than the Sakura. Sadly no matter how hard you tried, the choice is clear. They will get the Sakura and sing the Groovy song non-stop.

Welcome to Sakura New Town! Oh, wait, wrong anime.

Available colors: Blossom Pink/Black, Sorbet Blue/Titanium Gray, Akatsuki Sunrise Copper/Black, White Pearl/Titanium Gray, Sparkling Red/Black, Titanium Grey/Black, Frozen Vanilla Pearl/Black, Sorbet Blue/Black, White Pearl/Black, Black, Sterling Silver, Sparkling Red, Ash Brown, Sorbet Blue, and White Pearl.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

My GT7 Log: Know Your Legends - The Fairlady Z S30

Let's get to know about the legendary cars that are hard to get in Gran Turismo 7's Legend Cars not only because of their extreme rarity that appears once in a blue moon but also their outrageous price tag that takes almost forever to save one. Today, let's get to know about the first-generation Nissan Fairlady Z, the beginning of the Z-car story.

Launched in 1969, the Nissan Fairlady Z signaled the beginning of the Z-car story and the 432 is the top tier course of the S30 Fairlady Z. It's powered by an S20 DOHC straight-6 engine lifted from the Prince R380 with 4 valves per cylinder, 3 twin-choke carburetors, and twin camshafts, hence the name, delivering 158HP of power and 130.1ft-lb of torque. Not only is the S30 Fairlady Z a real head-turner on the roads but also in safari races and international rally events such as the Monte Carlo Rally. Today, it remains one of the all-time greats, especially when it was featured in Wangan Midnight as the Devil Z, the monster machine Akio Asakura's brave enough to drive in the series.

The S30 Fairlady Z will lap through the Goodwood Motor Circuit but how fast will it go? Let's roll the tape.

It did it in 1:44.183. Quite an astonishing performance for this ancient JDM legend.

What other hard-to-get legendary cars should I drive next? Stay tuned for more.

The top 10 Nissan sedans

Nissan is reportedly discontinuing the production of the Cima and Fuga flagship sedans, leaving the V37 Skyline sedan the only Nissan sedan Japanese people will buy as the company shifts its focus to crossovers and SUVs, which is a bunch of BS because the only Nissan SUVs available for Japanese people are the Kicks, the X-Trail, and the Ariya.

With the V37 Skyline the only Nissan sedan you can buy, it's time for a trip down memory lane to list down the ten best Nissan sedans ever made. 

2020 Nissan Skyline

10) Nissan Infiniti Q45 - Yes, Nissan did introduce the Infiniti marque in Japan at the end of 1989 with the Q45. Although this is basically called the Infiniti Q45, it was sold in Nissan dealerships until 1997. Donning the "Japan Original" tagline, the Infiniti Q45 features a unique badging on the front and a handcrafted interior inspired by Japanese aesthetics, showcasing its Japanese roots. Under the hood, it's powered by a VH45DE 4.5L engine mated to a 4-speed automatic.

9) Nissan Fuga Y51 - Launched in late 2009, the second-generation Fuga features a sleek and sporty exterior design as well as a classy interior full of tech and conveniences. It was offered in a choice of a 2.5L, a 3.7L, and a 3.5L hybrid powerplant mated to a 7-speed automatic, which makes it more engaging to drive than a Lexus GS450h. The Fuga Y51 spawned a long-wheelbase variant under the Cima name but only the hybrid variant is offered. Fair enough.

8) Nissan Cedric/Gloria Y33 - Launched in 1995, the Y33 Cedric and Gloria luxury sedans look daintily similar to their Y32 predecessors, apart from retaining their boxy looks, but they have refined dynamics as well as implementing dual airbags on a production vehicle. To recall, the Cedric is focused on being a proper luxury car while the Gloria is focused on being the Cedric's sporty alternative. Either way, speedo boys enjoyed both of these cars, especially when modified to their VIP looks. Slammed, big wheels, stance, expensive car jewelry, flashy exterior colors, and the odd-looking ornament attached to the rear-view mirror.

7) Nissan Skyline V37 - Launched in late 2013 and going on sale a year later, the V37 Skyline is basically a Japanese version of the Infiniti Q50 sold globally. Only the 3.5L HYBRID variant was available at launch and then followed by the 200GT-t variant, which is powered by a Mercedes-Benz-derived 2.0L turbo engine mated to a 7-speed AT.  It had two facelifts during its tenure with the second facelift a big one. Not only did it bring the Nissan badge back to the V37 Skyline, but it was also the first to introduce ProPilot 2.0 semi-autonomous driving aids as well as the first-ever 400R variant with the 400PS V6 3.0L Twin Turbo engine.

6) Nissan Cefiro A31 - The first-generation Nissan Cefiro was launched in the autumn of 1988 and it's powered by a choice of either a 2.0L or a 2.5L engine, mated to either an automatic or a manual gearbox. Speedo boys love the A31 because being the sedan version of the S13 Silvia, they found its use as a drift car for use in pro-street racing events or for showing off in the parking lot on a late Saturday night with lots of modifications in it.

5) Nissan President PGF50 - The second-generation Nissan President is basically an LWB version of the Cima F50 that has been peppered with ultra-luxury features on the passenger side. Like its short wheelbase cousin, the second-generation President is powered by a VK 4.5L V8 engine that produces 280PS of power and 451Nm of torque. Not bad for an ultra-luxury Nissan flagship sedan that time forgot.

4) Nissan Primera P11 - The second-generation Nissan Primera was launched in 1995 as well as its sporty Camino variant. It boasts a multi-link suspension to make it as easy to drive as a European car. It's no wonder the Nissan Primera became a worthy competitor against rival touring cars like the Honda Accord, the Renault Laguna, and the Opel Vectra. Thank you, TOCA.

3) Nissan Teana J31 - Launched in 2003 as the replacement for the Cefiro, the Teana is Nissan's luxury premium midsize sedan that slots between the Skyline and the Cedric/Gloria sedans. While the styling is rather contemporary for a luxury sedan, the Teana's turning point is its luxurious interior which is about as cozy as the sofas and chairs you bought from the IKEA store. The Teana J31 is sold in South Korea as the Renault Samsung SM5 and SM7 and in other countries as the Renault Safrane.

2) Nissan Skyline ER34 - The ER34 Skyline sedan was launched in Japan in mid-1998, months before the coupe version and the almighty GT-R followed later. While the R34 GT-R became one of the most iconic Japanese sports cars to come out from the Heisei era, it seems that the originator became long forgotten. It's rear-wheel-drive, it has four doors, it has a turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, and it's a balls-out drift machine. You may remember that a tuning company called Blitz turned the ER34 Skyline sedan into a D1GP drifting machine.

1) Nissan Sunny B13 - Okay, you get the point. Why did I put the Sunny B13 at the top of the list? Although it's not as exciting to drive as a four-door Skyline, it's by no means one of the most reliable Japanese sedans made in the early 90s. It's so reliable, that even the Mexicans loved it until it was removed from Nissan's Mexico lineup in 2018. Still, it remains one of the most reliable go-to sedans to be used on a daily basis, be it for work or for road trips.

...and these are the ten best Nissan sedans ever made. It's a shame that the V37 Skyline will be the only Nissan sedan available for the Japanese people while Nissan offers cool-looking sedans in other countries, especially China and the US. Signs of the times, am I right? Blame the SUV frenzy for the diminishing sedan lineup, which is basically a weak point of Nissan because it doesn't have the capability to match Toyota's massive SUV lineup, it only relies on potential strong sellers for the Japanese masses such as the Kicks, the X-Trail, and the new Ariya electric SUV.

Unless Nissan tries to match global levels to its lineup offered for the Japanese people, it won't be as great as Toyota's, and worse, it may end up in the same fate as the Ford Motor Company; going sedan-less, which is bad.

My GT7 Log: Episode Z

The Nissan Fairlady Z has become the second best thing to come out since the iconic Skyline GT-R. Since 1969, the Fairlady Z has been forever known to rewrite the rules of sports cars and remains one of the most important forefathers of the JDM sportscar realm apart from the 2000GT from Toyota and the Cosmo from Mazda.

Aside from being one of the iconic sports cars in Nissan's history, it remains one of the unsung heroes of the seinen manga/anime genre when it became the star of the Wangan Midnight franchise as the Devil Z, the demon of the Wangan expressway that Akio Asakura is brave enough to drive this monster. From conquering the Tokyo highways to the world, speedo boys can't get enough of the Fairlady Z's lineage from the beginning up 'till now. As the world braced for the new normal, the question now is, does the Fairlady Z still has a chance to survive the new society we live in?

The answer is a bare yea and in response, Nissan has unleashed the new Fairlady Z to show the world that Z is back in the race.

From its 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show unveiling to its Japan premiere at the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon, the new Fairlady Z continues to rewrite the rules of sports cars in a big way.

As observers point out, the new Fairlady Z is not really an all-new model. In fact, it's basically a big minor change version of the Z34 Fairlady Z launched in December 2008, giving the RZ34 code, but most of the stuff in this model is completely new.

The Nissan Fairlady Z RZ34 features an eclectic mix of design cues inspired by past models as well as a cutting-edge interior featuring a GT-R-derived steering wheel, the signature triple pod cluster, and race-inspired gauges. Under the hood, the previous model's 3.7L VVEL engine was replaced by the VR30DDTT 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine derived from the Skyline 400R. It produces nearly 400HP of power and 475Nm of torque while mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed AT. It features optional launch control for the first time in a Z car and a mechanical LSD.

Apart from the performance it delivers, the RZ34 Fairlady Z features new monotube shocks, new front geometry, rear suspension tuning, and another first for the Z car, electric power steering. It even features increased rigidity and available sports brakes.

Although a shocker to many because of its electric power steering that made it feel bulky to drive, the RZ34 delivers the best of both worlds and it continues to live up to its lineage as the sports car that served as the GT-R's head honcho, the second-in-command, the right-hand man, whatever speedo boys see fit.

To find out just how good the new Fairlady Z is, I need to find a suitable sandbox to test it out. Sure, I would like to test it on the Nurburgring like most sports cars but because the RZ34 is not available Euro-wide due to tightening regulations, best to cross that out, sadly.

So, if I can't test the RZ34 to the Nurburgring, where to test it? Look up and you'll see the answer; Laguna Seca.

Being used by most car magazines to test new cars, Laguna Seca is the ideal place to give the RZ34 Fairlady Z the two minutes of fame it will never forget. Actually, I won't do this at exactly two minutes because I'm going less than two minutes and this is what I'll do with the RZ34 as it will go around Laguna Seca in less than two minutes. Ready? Roll the tape.

After a quick lap around Laguna Seca, the Nissan Fairlady Z RZ34 with the 9-speed automatic mated in it did it in 1:48.014. Exactly as planned.

In the midst of the new normal, the Fairlady Z continues to fight back in new and exciting ways to win the hearts of speedo boys. The RZ34 may be a big minor change from the Z34 Fairlady Z but it's primed and ready to tackle the challenges of the Reiwa era like a bonafide Reiwa era JDM sports car. It seems that bitter sacrifices have been made to make the RZ34 the best Fairlady Z ever made. Sure, it has lost its European fans due to Nissan's decision not to sell the RZ34 on the Old Continent but for speedo boys in America, Japan, and other countries permitted to sell it, will the RZ34 Fairlady Z be hit or a miss? 

Only time will tell but in the meantime, the only game to experience the thrill of the Nissan Fairlady Z RZ34 is on Gran Turismo 7. It's a shocker letting the RZ34 become a Gran Turismo-exclusive car. Boo.

My GT7 Log: A different kind of S13

The S13 Silvia and the 180SX may look different but underneath, they're basically the same machine. Despite their similarities, that hasn't stopped speedo boys from driving one of these S13 twins.

Because the S13 Silvia and the 180SX run on the same mechanicals, a handful of speedo boys gave birth to a Frankenstein-ish machine that is basically a 180SX with the S13 Silvia's front. They've called it the Sileighty.

The Sileighty is what happens when you have the 180SX went to the plastic surgery and got its face swapped with the S13 Silvia's. As a matter of fact, this is what I believe to be the forefather of face-swapping tuner cars because this is what speedo boys do most of the time; swapping faces of other vehicles, be it a successor or predecessor of their current vehicle. There's a well-known tidbit that despite not being a bonafide Nissan, a certain Nissan dealership sold 500 units of Sileighty.

Another well-known tidbit is that the Sileighty appeared in Initial D as Mako Sato's car of choice and it battled against Takumi's AE86 Trueno in a one-on-one street race. The Sileighty's appearance in Initial D caused a widespread reception among speedo boys who witnessed this iconic moment, wishing they want to have the exact car that Mako drove in the series.

Here we are, the Sileighty made a comeback as a used car in Gran Turismo 7 for a very limited time so if you got the money, now's the time to do it because if it's sold out, you're going to wait several days, weeks, or months for this car to come back. Anyway, now that I got my hands on the peculiar S13, I decided to give this a little twirl in Tsukuba, just to find out how good this is.

As expected, the Sileighty drives like both of the machines it was based on, and because of its compact rear-wheel-drive layout, you can smoke this car through the corners like a drift car. No wonder speedo boys pushed this car to its critical limit, transforming this Frankenstein-ish Nissan into either a track toy or a drifting machine but still drifting is what the Sileighty does best.

Anyway, no time to talk. It's time to find out just how fast the Sileighty does around Tsukuba. Roll the tape.

The Sileighty did it in 1:13.450. Not a bad result, though.

The Sileighty spearheaded the popular trend of face-swapping tuner cars for the fun of it and this chimera of a JDM car deserves some credit. For a 180SX wearing the S13 Silvia's front face, this is by no means one of the coolest machines ever existed.

Experience the Sileighty on GT7 today!

Nissan Ariya

This is by no means one of the most important milestones for Nissan since the Leaf. It's called the Ariya and this electric crossover signaled the new era for Nissan in the midst of the new normal.

2022 Nissan Ariya

2022 Nissan Ariya

The Nissan Ariya is an all-electric crossover that Nissan called one of the most important milestones since the Leaf and whatever the reason, it's a proper game-changer that caters to the world with its revolutionary electric powertrain and dynamics that set standards for electric vehicles in this time of the new normal.

Beginning with the styling, the Ariya heavily draws inspiration from the concept car as seen at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show thanks to such positive feedback from the motoring public. Although the sizing can be somewhat mistaken for the defunct Murano, it has a shorter overall length than the X-Trail in reality. No complaints here.

2022 Nissan Ariya

The same here goes for the interior. the Ariya prefers the minimalist route like most modern vehicles have because minimalism is part of the new normal of the motoring world. Despite its minimalism, the Ariya is still user-friendly for all because of a working knob for the volume, a climate control touch panel on the dashboard, and a super long split-screen positioned on the driver's side with one for the instrumentals and the other for touch screen purposes, and what's surprising is the hidden touch panels near the armrests that appeared when it's on and they're made to adjust your driving pleasure. One thing you might need to watch for is its tech, especially the dreaded Amazon Alexa feature installed on the Ariya. Once the Alexa moment kicks in, the disturbance begins as such.

Aside from that, the Ariya boasts best-in-class interior space unique for electric vehicles, meaning this five-seater is fit for all walks of life.

2022 Nissan Ariya

The base front-wheel-drive B6 variant with the 66kWh battery pack, priced at 5,390,000 Japanese Yen, produces 218PS of power, 300Nm of torque, and it's good for 450km of driving range based on WLTC mode standards. However, for those who are lucky enough to reserve the ultra-expensive B9 limited with a 91kWh battery pack and the revolutionary e-4ORCE 4WD system, it has 394PS of power output, 600Nm of torque, and 580km of driving range based on WLTC Mode standards. Front-wheel-drive B9 variants are good for 610km. Lucky them.

The e-4ORCE 4WD system is a new type of electric 4WD system that draws inspiration from the legendary ATTESA E-TS of the Nissan GT-R and the All-Mode 4x4 used on Nissan SUVs. By taking care of its power output and braking performance, the e-4ORCE system makes the Ariya capable of handling all kinds of road conditions, especially tarmac, gravel, or snow. Not perfect as such but it's rather excellent indeed for an all-around electric crossover. This signature electric 4WD system deserves some respect, mind you.

With safety as part of the new normal, the first-ever Nissan Ariya features the most advanced driving aids as part of the Nissan Intelligent Mobility banner. It features an improved ProPILOT with Navi-link that gives this crossover autonomous driving capability that terrifies speedo boys many. There's also ProPILOT Park for hands-free parking, e-Pedal for one-pedal operation, Intelligent Around View Monitor, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, and Rear Automatic Emergency Braking Technology, among many others.

The arrival of the Ariya signaled the true beginning of the next chapter of Nissan history. Like it or not, this electric crossover not only sets standards, it is the gold standard for electric vehicles, and looks like this Nissan deserves some kudos for its game-changing characteristics that made the Ariya the electric crossover built for the challenges of the new normal. This is the future we live in.

Photo: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

My FH5 Log: KING OF GT-Rs

Since 2007, the Nissan GT-R R35 is the last word of performance not only because of its heritage that dates back from the legendary Skyline GT-R but because of its supercar-slaying performance that shows that Japan is a force to be reckoned with.

Of course, being a normal GT-R, it seems that such performance alone wasn't enough to satisfy the cravings of speedo boys wanting to give European supercars a good beating. That is why they've created the NISMO version for such a purpose.

Created as a result of Nissan's trial and error struggle to create a supercar that can compete against the world's best supercars, the GT-R NISMO, first launched in 2014, features track-honed aerodynamics akin to its GT3 racer and an improved 3.8L V6 Twin Turbo engine producing 600PS of power output, capable of lapping the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 7:08.679. This is the 2020 Model Year GT-R and for this update, the GT-R NISMO features front fenders from the GT3 racecar, a new carbon-fiber roof, and improved dynamics. It is said that the improved GT-R NISMO lapped Tsukuba in less than a minute.

Having won this car from the Series 5 Hot Season Playlist, I am pleased to experience what is known the be the King of GT-Rs. It may look aged and outdated in the midst of the new normal but the GT-R is still a timeless masterpiece that deserves a lot of respect and in this NISMO version, that respect remains. I had a blast driving one in this game and I'm starting to fall in love with its dynamics that made the GT-R NISMO the king. Respect to that.

To show how much respect the GT-R NISMO delivers, it's time to give Godzilla a typical Japanese tradition; a leisurely underground street racing against supercars. Let's roll the tape.

This is the Japanese way, as speedo boys called it.

As the R35 GT-R's time is nearing the midnight shift, rest assured that this Japanese supercar slayer is truly a legend on its own and the GT-R NISMO is a clear but stark reminder that as the world's living in the new normal, cars like this may not be forever but it managed to leave a lasting legacy the next generation of vehicles will learn something from.

Thank you, Godzilla.

My GT7 Log: The stars of the first GT game

When the first-ever Gran Turismo game was launched on the PlayStation in late December 1997, the R33 Skyline GT-R and the JZA80 Supra are the cover cars of the first GT game. In Gran Turismo 7, you have been given the chance to drive the two JDM icons that served as the foundation of the genesis of the Gran Turismo franchise. One of the many reasons to celebrate the franchise's 25th anniversary.

Here they are; the two JDM legends that served as the foundation of the first Gran Turismo game; the R33 Skyline GT-R from Nissan and the JZA80 Supra from Toyota. Both of these icons became forever favorites coveted by speedo boys around the globe because of their supercar-slaying performance when fully tuned to the critical level. What can I say? You can't really beat the classics, right?

Anyway, before taking a quick spin with the two JDM legends, let's have a quick dive with the stars of the first GT game.

Let's begin with the R33 Skyline GT-R. Penned by its advert as the "minus 21-second roman", the R33 GT-R lapped the legendary Nurburgring 21 seconds faster than its R32 predecessor. The hood is now made of aluminum along with the front fenders and the engine that powers it is the RB26DETT engine mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox, delivering power through all four wheels via Nissan's ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system. This generation once participated in the 1995 Le Mans and one of them finished in 10th place overall, fifth in class.

Hailed as "The Sports of Toyota", the A80-spec Toyota Supra was launched in 1993 and its unique styling makes it one of the most iconic sports cars ever to come out from Japan. This generation comes with two engine choices; a naturally aspirated and turbocharged version of the 3.0L 2JZ straight-six engine. The turbocharged variant produces 276HP of power but the ones used in the JGTC (now called SuperGT) produce between less than 400 to 500HP, although speedo boys love to tune the Supra to Fast and Furious levels. Toyota says that this Supra is the best handling in its class because of its double-wishbone suspension setup. Despite being discontinued in 2002, it remains popular among speedo boys, and if it's good enough for Paul Walker, it's good enough for every speedo boy worldwide.

With their quick introduction done, it's time to take these two for a one-lap time attack around the Tsukuba Circuit. This is quite a coincidence because back in my GT SPORT days, I pitted these two round Tsukuba to find out which of these icons is the best and in the end, the R33 emerged as the winner. Now that we're living in the GT7 era, it's time to redo the experiment for nostalgic purposes.

I'm getting basked to the glory of the game's improved graphics and physics compared to GT SPORT but this is no time for that, it's time to find out which one is the best. Roll the tape.

After a quick lap around Tsukuba, again, here are the results;

JZA80 - 1m08.861s

R33 GT-R - 1m07.509s

Wow, these cars are better than they were in their GT SPORT days but in the end, it's Godzilla trumped The Fast and the Furious. Victory for the GT-R.

Looking at the cover art of the first Gran Turismo game and these two cars with your eyes, it's certain that why they are loved by many because they really are the originals that forged from our passion for cars and it's certainly where we are now without them. Yes, I know, I said this line before but it's good to have the icons back for more fun in GT7.

The R33 GT-R and the JZA80 Supra, they have really been the foundation of the Gran Turismo franchise ever since they've been chosen to be the cover cars of the first game. As the franchise continues to evolve, so does our love of cars and looks like we should be thankful for these two JDM legends that laid the seeds of this iconic car racing franchise. The more you know.