Automotive
2024 Nissan GT-R receives updated aerodynamics, T-spec special edition and heritage paint options
- Redesigned front and rear fascias, new rear wing designs enhance GT-R’s aerodynamic performance and appearance
- T-spec returns, joining GT-R Premium and NISMO models
- Exclusive Millennium Jade, Midnight Purple paint colors honor some of the rarest R34-generation GT-R models
- NISMO adds front limited-slip differential, available NISMO Appearance package debuts with unique wheels, carbon fiber elements
GT-R, the pinnacle of Nissan high-performance engineering, thrillingly combines a high horsepower engine with impressive handling and useful technology for everyday driving. For the 2024 model year, GT-R is even more exciting with in-depth enhancements to its aerodynamic performance, the return of a special trim and revised available packages.
The 2024 Nissan GT-R is offered in three grades, starting with GT-R Premium and T-spec® with 565 horsepower, providing a tantalizing option for those seeking a super sports car. The 600-horsepower1 GT-R NISMO offers an even more exceptional level of performance, with engineering drawn directly from motorsports applications.
The 2024 Nissan GT-R arrives at select U.S. Nissan dealers this spring (NISMO arrives in summer).
A relentless approach to performance
All 2024 Nissan GT-R grades are extensively revised to increase downforce and reduce drag, helping provide confident, responsive handling, representing Nissan’s continued iterative enhancements to GT-R. The enhancements include redesigned front and rear fascias, optimized bumper sides, revised grille shapes and reshaped rear wings, further increasing the car’s impressive aerodynamic performance.
Demonstrating the team’s attention to every detail, engineers even closely scrutinized the mesh used in the front grille and employed a thinner mesh to further enhance cooling and reduce drag. Impressively, GT-R’s drag coefficient is unchanged at 0.26 Cd despite the increase in downforce.
On GT-R NISMO, a new rear wing design sits atop dramatic, swan neck-style supports. With an almost 10% larger surface area, the wing’s curvature has been specifically designed to optimize drag and downforce. The team also revised GT-R NISMO’s front lip, rear diffuser and canards.
Special editions and heritage colors
The GT-R T-spec returns for the 2024 model year and builds upon the already capable Premium with many visual and mechanical enhancements, including GT-R NISMO carbon-ceramic brakes, a gold-painted version of the NISMO’s RAYS® 20-inch forged wheels, NISMO-tuned Vehicle Dynamic Control and wider front fenders. Visually, T-spec wears special badging inside and out, a dark Mori Green upholstery color and a combination of semi-aniline and suede upholstery for the front seats.
Most exciting of all, the T-spec is available in two exclusive colors that appeal to GT-R enthusiasts by resurrecting two of the nameplate’s most iconic paint colors. The first is Millennium Jade, which pays homage to one of the rarest GT-Rs ever, the R34 GT-R V-Spec II Nür. The second T-spec-exclusive paint is Midnight Purple, a modern interpretation of the Midnight Purple III color made famous on the R34 GT-R V-Spec.
Newly available on GT-R NISMO is a NISMO Appearance Package, which includes an exclusive, red-accented version of the car’s RAYS forged 20-inch wheels, a unique clear coat applied to the carbon fiber hood and an exclusive engine cover design. GT-R NISMO also offers a new NISMO-exclusive paint color: Stealth Gray.
Engineered for performance
The 2024 Nissan GT-R uses a 3.8-liter V6, 24-valve, twin-turbocharged engine that is hand-assembled by takumi technicians. The engine, which was refined for the 2020 model year, is rated at 565 horsepower and 467 lb-ft of torque, and features a standard titanium exhaust system.
GT-R channels its power through a standard ATTESA ET-S all-wheel-drive system that can vary its front-to-rear torque split, depending on driving scenario, for peak driving feel and performance. The standard 6-speed dual-clutch transaxle is rear-mounted to optimize vehicle weight distribution, and offers aggressive downshifts as well as steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual control.
GT-R’s dynamic ride and handling is brought to life thanks to the expertly tuned independent double wishbone front and independent multi-link rear suspensions. Standard Bilstein® DampTronic shock absorbers offer three driver-selectable settings for GT-R’s suspension: Normal, Comfort and R. These three modes allow the driver to combine varying levels of driving comfort with the sport-like responsive handling that GT-R is known for. The engine, transmission and suspension’s settings are controlled by large, tactile switches located on the car’s center console.
In GT-R Premium, braking is provided by a Nissan and Brembo® jointly developed braking system with six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers. Lightweight RAYS® 20-inch wheels shod with Dunlop high-performance summer tires connect GT-R with the road.
GT-R T-spec uses Brembo® brakes with enlarged, carbon-ceramic rotors from the GT-R NISMO, along with a gold-painted version of NISMO’s RAYS wheels wearing Dunlop® SP Sport Maxx GT600 ultra-high-performance run-flat tires with a NISMO-specific compound.
Refined interior appointments
The inside of GT-R welcomes occupants with a “horizontal-flow” dashboard design swathed in Nappa leather appointments, and seats designed to be lightweight.
GT-R T-spec elevates the car’s interior design with an exclusive dark Mori Green upholstery throughout, with a combination semi-aniline and suede treatment for the front seats. Unique logos on the console and kick plates further identify the T-spec. GT-R T-spec adds several unique visual touches to the car’s exterior, including T-spec emblems on the trunk.
The standard NissanConnect® infotainment system with 8-inch multi-touch display features Apple CarPlay®, Nissan navigation system, Bluetooth®, HD Radio, SiriusXM® Radio, SiriusXM® Traffic, and SiriusXM® Travel Link™ (weather, fuel prices, movie listings, stock info and sports).
The display also has GT-R-specific, customizable data pages showing key vehicle data, including details like coolant and oil temperature, transmission gear selection, g-forces, turbocharger boost and even a stopwatch for lap timing2.
GT-R further accommodates drivers with premium convenience features including a Bose® 11-speaker audio system, Active Noise Cancellation, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and front and rear parking sensors.
NISMO: Elevated, motorsports-derived performance
For drivers seeking an even greater level of capability, the GT-R NISMO – its name derived from NISsan MOtorsports International Co. – is a more extreme version of the GT-R2.
In addition to aerodynamic revisions, the 2024 GT-R NISMO benefits from a front limited-slip differential for the first time. The differential helps improve the driving experience, ensuring GT-R faithfully follows the driver’s inputs and exemplifies the NISMO team’s approach to iterative enhancements that continually build upon GT-R’s capabilities.
The GT-R NISMO was extensively enhanced for the 2020 model year with new turbochargers taken from the GT3 racecar, enhanced transmission shift control, lighter components, enhanced body bonding to increase torsional rigidity, reduced overall mass, and upgrades to the brakes, wheels and tires. Compared to GT-R Premium, it also has an increased use of lightweight carbon fiber components and increased horsepower.
The GT-R NISMO is rated for 600 hp and 481 lb-ft of torque1, with significantly enhanced engine responsiveness.
Complementing NISMO’s improved power and grip are Brembo® brakes with enlarged, carbon-ceramic rotors measuring 16.1 inches in the front and 15.3 inches at the rear. The rotors themselves save 36 pounds of weight, while the high-strength calipers and high-friction brake pads contribute to a firmer brake pedal feeling.
NISMO-exclusive bodywork helps provide increased component cooling while also improving aerodynamic downforce. The roof is made from carbon fiber to reduce weight and lower the car’s center of gravity, paying dividends in terms of handling. Additional NISMO-exclusive carbon fiber body panels include front and rear fascias, trunk lid, race-inspired rear wing, side sill covers, hood and outside mirror housings.
Inside, GT-R NISMO includes interior enhancements include Recaro® seats with synthetic suede inserts, red stitching and an Alcantara-appointed steering wheel with a red top stripe.
For full details on the features included on each grade level of the 2024 Nissan GT-R, see the full specification sheet.
For more information about our products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit nissanusa.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn and see all our latest videos on YouTube.
Source: Nissan
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Automotive
2025 KIA TELLURIDE RANKS NUMBER ONE IN ITS SEGMENT IN J.D. POWER 2025 U.S. INITIAL QUALITY STUDY (IQS)
2025 Telluride
- 2025 Telluride named the Upper Midsize SUV segment winner in the J.D. Power 2025 IQS
- Award highlights Telluride’s strong performance in quality, and customer satisfaction
@stmblog Excited to introduce the KiaEV9! This all-electric SUV combines style, space, and sustainability. Ready for your next adventure! ⚡🌍 #ElectricVehicle
♬ original sound – STMDailyNews
CVT Transmissions Explained: Model Years to Avoid, Reliability Issues, and Maintenance TipsLink: https://stmdailynews.com/?p=39958
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CVT Transmissions Explained: Model Years to Avoid, Reliability Issues, and Maintenance Tips
Learn what a CVT transmission is, which model years to avoid, brands with reliability issues, and expert tips to extend CVT lifespan.
View from the driver’s seat of the gear shift lever in a car with an automatic transmission and climate control panel. Black-gray car interior
CVT Transmissions Explained: Model Years to Avoid, Reliability Issues, and Maintenance Tips
Continuously Variable Transmissions — better known as CVTs — are now common in compact cars, hybrids, and fuel-efficient vehicles. They promise smoother driving and better gas mileage, but their reputation has been uneven, depending heavily on brand, design, and model year.
Here’s what CVTs are, which vehicles have had the most trouble, and how owners can protect themselves from costly repairs.
What Is a CVT?
A CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) doesn’t use traditional fixed gears like a 6-speed or 8-speed automatic. Instead, it relies on two variable-diameter pulleys connected by a steel belt or chain. As the pulleys change size, the transmission seamlessly adjusts the gear ratio.
- Smooth acceleration
- No noticeable gear shifts
- Improved fuel efficiency
This design is why CVTs are especially common in hybrids, where efficiency and smooth power delivery matter more than outright performance.
Illustration credit: Samarins.com
Why CVTs Are Popular in Hybrids
Most hybrid systems use a variation called an eCVT, which is mechanically different — and generally more reliable — than belt-driven CVTs found in many gas-only cars.
Manufacturers like Toyota and Honda favor eCVTs because they:
- Reduce mechanical complexity
- Eliminate traditional belts under high stress
- Integrate seamlessly with electric motors
- Deliver long-term durability with minimal maintenance
This is why hybrid CVTs tend to have far fewer failure complaints than early gasoline-only CVTs.
CVT Model Years to Avoid (Buyer Beware)
Not all CVTs are created equal. Some manufacturers — most notably Nissan — experienced widespread issues during certain production years.
Nissan CVT Model Years With Higher Failure Rates
- Nissan Altima: 2007–2012, 2013–2018
- Nissan Sentra: 2012–2017
- Nissan Rogue: 2014–2018
- Nissan Pathfinder: 2013–2014
Common issues reported included:
- Shuddering and hesitation
- Overheating
- Whining noises
- Premature belt or pulley failure
- Complete transmission replacement well before 100,000 miles
These problems were serious enough to result in extended warranties and class-action settlements in some cases. Newer Nissan CVTs (2019 and newer) show improvement, but long-term reliability data is still developing.
How Other Brands Compare
- Toyota & Honda: Generally strong CVT reliability, especially in hybrids
- Subaru: Mixed results; early Lineartronic CVTs had complaints, later versions improved
- Mitsubishi: Some issues in budget models, fewer reports overall than Nissan
In short, design, torque limits, and cooling systems matter more than the CVT label alone.
How to Extend the Life of a CVT
Despite the myth of “lifetime fluid,” most transmission specialists agree that maintenance is critical.
- Change CVT fluid every 30,000–50,000 miles
- Use only manufacturer-specified CVT fluid
- Avoid aggressive acceleration and heavy towing
- Watch for early warning signs like whining, slipping, or shuddering
- Keep the vehicle’s cooling system in good condition
- Verify service records before buying a used CVT vehicle
Neglecting fluid service is one of the fastest ways to shorten a CVT’s lifespan.
CVT vs Dual-Clutch Transmission
Feature CVT Dual-Clutch (DCT) Gear changes Continuous Fixed gears Driving feel Smooth, no shifts Fast, sporty shifts Fuel economy Often better Good, performance-focused Reliability Varies by brand/year Can be complex or jerky
Final Takeaway
CVTs aren’t inherently bad — but early designs and poor maintenance gave some brands a lasting reputation problem. Buyers should focus on:
- Specific model years
- Service history
- Driving habits
- Whether the CVT is a traditional belt-driven unit or a hybrid eCVT
When properly designed and maintained, a CVT can deliver excellent efficiency and long service life — especially in modern hybrids.
According to Consumer Reports reliability data , CVT performance varies significantly by manufacturer and model year.
Drivers can also research real-world issues through the NHTSA vehicle complaint database , which tracks owner-reported transmission problems.
For more automotive explainers, visit our The Knowledge section on STM Daily News.
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Set Yourself Up for Safe Winter Driving
Set yourself up for safe winter driving with these essential tips: switch to winter tires, check air pressure, protect off-season wheels, and maintain tread depth. Learn how to prepare your car for snow and ice so you can drive with confidence all season.
Last Updated on December 21, 2025 by Daily News Staff

Set Yourself Up for Safe Winter Driving
(Family Features) Waiting for the first snow or ice storm to hit puts you and your tires behind the curve when it comes time to get behind the wheel. Preparing your vehicle and brushing up on smart winter driving tips helps ensure you arrive at your destination safely, no matter the weather. Consider Winter Tires When temperatures drop below 45 F, winter tires maintain flexibility and road grip, contrary to all-season tires that don’t perform as well in these conditions. Winter tires are designed for better traction and stopping power in ice, slush and snow. Change Out Seasonal Wheels and Rims Swapping summer or all-season tires for winter ones will ensure your vehicle has the best traction possible, but that’s just part of the story. Slippery, wet and icy roads mean vehicles tend to skid and lose control, striking curbs and other objects that scratch, dent and scuff. Snow and winter wheels are a smart way to protect summer rims from snow, ice and road-clearing chemicals like salt. Protect Offseason Tires It’s important to protect your offseason tires from below freezing temperatures, sunlight, moisture and other harsh weather conditions. Consider Discount Tire’s Tire Hotel service, available at select locations, where stores help preserve the condition of tires, handling tire rotations, inspections and maintenance when it’s time to change the winter tires back. Maintain Target Air Pressure The impact changing temperatures have on your tire pressure can create numerous issues, including poor handling, worse gas mileage, excessive wear and overloading. Prevent problems by checking your air pressure at least once a month when your tires are cool and before any long trip. For every 10 F in ambient temperature change, tire air pressure changes 1 PSI (pound per square inch). That means you need to check your tires more frequently as temperatures fluctuate and settle into lower winter levels. Check Tread Depth Regularly Your vehicle’s tread depth plays a vital role in traction, which can affect your safety while driving in winter conditions. To ensure you have ample tread, stick a penny upside-down in a tread groove. It’s time to replace if Lincoln’s head is visible. You can also visit your local Discount Tire store for a free tire safety check. Practice Good Tire Maintenance Taking care of your tires ensures you get the longest life and best wear. Most experts recommend rotating your tires every 6,000 miles. Knowing the age of your tires, which can be found by looking at the DOT number stamped on their sidewalls, is important since tire rubber becomes harder and more brittle as it ages, increasing the risk of failure. Choose Tires Wisely Selecting the tires that are best suited for where you drive, how you drive and what you drive helps protect you and your passengers, ensuring your vehicle is prepared for winter weather. When shopping, consider using an online tire guide like Treadwell, which provides personalized recommendations on the best tires for your driving needs. Find the tool online at DiscountTire.com/Treadwell. Photo courtesy of ShutterstockThe Legacy of the Datsun 510: How a Game-Changing Car Helped Nissan Conquer the US MarketLink: https://stmdailynews.com/the-legacy-of-the-datsun-510-how-a-game-changing-car-helped-nissan-conquer-the-us-market/
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