Here in Hong Kong, we are one of the first overseas market has the latest Skyline (code name R34) on sale. To the Western, Skyline simply equals to the awesome GT-R, an all-wheel-drive, all-wheel-steer super coupe. To people who keeps updating their knowledge about Japanese cars, Skyline is a range of sports sedans which appears in 4-doors and 2-doors form with various choices on engines. The GT-R is only the range-topper. Before going on reading, please be reminded that the R34 GT-R is not going to be released until this December. We just talk about the more civilised Skyline 25GT in here.  

Comparing with the R33, the latest Skyline is 60mm and 55mm shorter in length and wheelbase respectively. The size reduction is due to some criticisms that the previous generation was grown too big to be nimble, especially when compare with the Lancer Evo V and Impreza WRX. By cutting the wheelbase, chassis rigidity could also be benefited.  

Engine is still the familiar in-line 6, displacing at 2.5 litres and incorporated a turbocharger (GT-R has two). It output 280hp and 253lbft, considerably more than before (250hp). Power is fed to the rear axle via a 5-speed manual. 4WD is also available in the 25GT-X, but the new Tiptronic-styled semi-automatic is only available in the more relaxed 200hp non-turbo version. Once again, the Super HICAS 4-wheel-steering system is reserved for the GT-R. 

How does it behave in reality ? The combination of the stiffer chassis, the rear-wheel-drive characteristics and the well-tuned all-wheel multi-link suspensions provides great handling in winding roads. Cornering attitude is easily adjustable, thanks God Nissan insists RWD in this car. Body roll is well suppressed in the price of ride comfort. Direct steering also aids driving pleasure.  

The in-line 6 is a little bit disappointing, given the Japanese always make the best engines. It is not as smooth as BMW's opponents, yet the single turbo does not deliver the necessary response and boost for the final thrill. Anyway, 25GT is not intended to be the ultimate driving machine. What it lacks are obviously reserved for the forthcoming GT-R. From what it has achieved, I am sure the GT-R must be very promising. 
 

Laurel

Styling is so conservative that export seems unlikely. 4-speed automatic as standard means it is not really sporty. The NEO RB250DE incorporates variable intake manifold and output 200hp, while the turbo version has been uprated to 280hp. Both shares with the new Skyline.