Nissan GT-R to get 784-hp hybrid powertrain?

Nissan is reportedly readying its next-generation GT-R with a hybrid powertrain that will borrow tech from the company’s upcoming Le Mans race car.

The street-legal flagship is expected to carry over the current twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine, but retuned for around 650 horsepower.

An electric motor will add another 134 ponies, producing a grand total of 784 horsepower, while combined torque is expected to reach approximately 737 lb-ft, unnamed sources have told Motor Trend.

The additional power is said to require a tougher gearbox, likely an eight-speed unit to replace the current six-speed transmission.

Responding to criticism that the GT-R’s aesthetic appearance doesn’t live up to the performance within, designers are believed to be embracing a bolder form inspired by the 2020 Vision Gran Turismo concept.

Nissan may unveil its next-gen GT-R concept as early as 2015 at the Tokyo Motor Show, with production potentially beginning in 2018.