Rear wheel drive cars Nissan occupy a special place in the line of the Japanese brand, combining a sporty character, high reliability and unique technical solutions. From iconic sports cars to powerful SUVs, rear-wheel drive remains a key element for models where dynamics, handling and cross-country ability are important. In this article we will look at what Nissan rear wheel drive available on the market today, their strengths and weaknesses, and we will also give practical recommendations for selection and operation.
Features of rear-wheel drive Nissan — this is not only the distribution of torque to the rear wheels, but also unique engineering solutions. For example, the system ATTESA E-TS in GT-R or lockable rear differential in Patrol make these cars truly unique. However, not all rear-wheel drive models are equally good for everyday use - some require special attention to maintenance, others are limited in the choice of configurations. Next, we will consider each category in detail.
Which Nissan models will have rear-wheel drive in 2026?
To date Nissan offers rear-wheel drive vehicles in three main segments: sports cars, sedans and SUVs. However, some models are only available in certain markets (for example, Nissan Fuga in Japan), and others like GT-R, are sold globally, but in limited quantities.
Here is the current list of rear-wheel drive Nissan:
- 🚗 Sports cars: Nissan GT-R (R35), Nissan Z (400Z)
- 🚙 Sedans: Nissan Fuga (Japan only) Nissan Cima (discontinued 2022)
- 🏜️ SUVs: Nissan Patrol (Y62), Nissan Armada (for USA), Nissan Titan (pickup)
Separately worth mentioning Nissan 370Z, whose production ended in 2020, but on the secondary market it remains one of the brand’s most affordable rear-wheel drive sports cars. Also in some countries you can still find Nissan Silvia (S15) is a legendary drift car that was not officially delivered to Russia, but is popular among enthusiasts.
- GT-R
- Patrol
- Z (400Z)
- Fuga/Sedan
- Other
Advantages and disadvantages of rear-wheel drive in Nissan
Rear wheel drive in cars Nissan has both undeniable advantages and specific disadvantages that are important to consider when choosing. The main advantage is better weight distribution (closer to 50:50), which has a positive effect on handling and dynamics. For example, GT-R with the system ATTESA E-TS capable of sending up to 100% of torque to one rear wheel, making it incredibly efficient on the track.
However, there is a downside:
- ❄️ Difficulties in winter conditions: without all-wheel drive or good winter tires rear-wheel drive Nissan can be unpredictable in the snow.
- 💰 More expensive service: The driveshaft, differential and rear suspension require regular attention.
- 🚗 Limited cross-country ability: even Patrol with rear-wheel drive it is inferior to all-wheel drive versions on off-road.
An important nuance: in models with rear-wheel drive and an automatic transmission (for example, Patrol Y62) when towing, strict restrictions must be observed - speed no more than 50 km/h and distance up to 50 km, otherwise the risk of damage to the automatic transmission increases significantly.
If you plan to drive a rear-wheel drive Nissan in the winter, be sure to set the ESP to "Sport" mode or turn it off completely when starting on ice - this will help avoid brake application on slippery surfaces.
Nissan GT-R: the legendary rear-wheel drive supercar
Nissan GT-R (R35) is the flagship sports car of the brand, which, despite the all-wheel drive system ATTESA E-TS, remains fundamentally a rear-wheel drive vehicle. In normal mode, up to 100% of the torque can be transmitted to the rear wheels, and the front axle is engaged only when slipping. It does GT-R a unique hybrid that combines the advantages of rear-wheel drive with the reliability of all-wheel drive.
Technical characteristics of the basic version:
| Parameter | Nissan GT-R (2026) |
|---|---|
| Engine | VR38DETT 3.8L V6 twin-turbo |
| Power | 570–600 hp (depending on version) |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h | 2.7–3.0 sec. |
| Drive | ATTESA E-TS (plug-in full) |
| Gearbox | 6-st. robot GR6 dual clutch |
One of the key features GT-R is a system VDC-R (Vehicle Dynamic Control), which allows you to fine-tune the behavior of the car. For example, in mode R-Mode electronics minimize intervention, allowing experienced drivers to take full control of the drift. However, for beginners this mode can be dangerous - it is easy to lose the car at high speed.
What is ATTESA E-TS?
This is an advanced all-wheel drive system that, under normal conditions, distributes up to 100% of the torque to the rear wheels. When slipping occurs, the front axle is engaged, and the electronics analyzes data from the sensors every 0.001 second, adjusting traction for each wheel separately.
Nissan Patrol: rear-wheel drive flagship among SUVs
Nissan Patrol (Y62) is one of the few large SUVs that is still offered with rear-wheel drive as standard. This makes it more affordable compared to all-wheel drive versions, but imposes restrictions on cross-country ability. However, Patrol Rear-wheel drive remains a popular choice in countries with good roads where all-wheel drive is not as popular.
Main features of rear-wheel drive Patrol Y62:
- 🔧 Engine:
VK56VD 5.6L V8(405 hp) orYD25DDTi 2.5L turbodiesel(190 hp) - 🛣️ Suspension: independent front, multi-link rear with pneumatics (in top versions)
- 🔄 Transmission: 7-st. automatic
JR710Ewith manual mode - 🔒 Differential: lockable rear (optional)
It is important to understand that rear-wheel drive Patrol significantly loses to all-wheel drive versions off-road, especially on sand or mud. However, on pavement it exhibits excellent handling for a car of its size, and air suspension allows you to adjust the ground clearance from 220 to 275 mm.
If you choose Patrol for the city and rare trips on dirt roads, the rear-wheel drive version will save you up to 15% on the cost of the car and maintenance. But for serious off-road use, it is better to consider all-wheel drive modifications.
Nissan Z (400Z): the return of a rear-wheel drive legend
Nissan Z (internal designation RZ34) - successor 370Z, which returned to the market in 2022 after a long hiatus. This is a classic rear-wheel drive sports car with a long hood and a short wheelbase, focused on driving sensations. Unlike GT-R, there is no all-wheel drive here - only pure rear-wheel drive, which makes the car more “honest” and predictable to drive.
Key technical solutions Nissan Z:
- 🔥 Engine:
VR30DDTT 3.0L V6 twin-turbo(400 hp in basic version) - ⚙️ Boxes: 6-st. mechanics or 9-speed automatic
9HPfrom ZF - 🎯 Suspension: multi-link front and rear with adaptive shock absorbers
- 🔄 Differential: mechanical VLSD (limited slip)
One of the new features Z became a system Launch Control, which allows you to steadily accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds (with automatic transmission). However, to activate it, you need to perform a strict sequence of actions: depress the brake, move the selector to Drive, hold the button Sport and suddenly release the brake pedal. Improper use may cause the clutch to overheat.
☑️ How to properly use Launch Control in Nissan Z
Comparison of rear-wheel drive Nissans: what to choose?
Choice of rear-wheel drive Nissan depends on your priorities: sporty dynamics, comfort, cross-country ability or status. Below we compare the key models according to the main criteria:
| Model | Type | Power | Acceleration 0–100 | Price (from) | For whom |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GT-R | Supercar | 570–600 hp | 2.7 sec. | ~12 million rubles | Track enthusiasts |
| Z (400Z) | Sports car | 400 hp | 4.5 sec. | ~6 million rubles | Drive lovers |
| Patrol (V8) | SUV | 405 hp | 6.5 sec. | ~7 million ₽ | Families, travelers |
| 370Z | Sports car | 332 hp | 5.1 sec. | ~3.5 million ₽ (used) | Budget sports option |
If your goal is maximum dynamics, then GT-R unrivaled, despite the high price and expensive maintenance. Best suited for everyday use with sports elements Z (400Z) - it is cheaper, easier to repair and does not require as much attention as GT-R. Patrol it is chosen by those who need a spacious and reliable car with the ability to easily off-road.
When buying a used Nissan with rear-wheel drive, be sure to check the condition of the driveshaft and rear gearbox - these components often wear out during aggressive driving or towing.
Maintenance and repair: what owners need to know
Rear wheel drive Nissan require a special approach to maintenance, especially when it comes to sports models or cars with high mileage. Here are the key points to pay attention to:
1. Transmission and drive:
- 🔧 Rear gearbox: The oil needs to be changed every 60–90 thousand km (in GT-R - every 30 thousand km).
- 🔄 Cardan shaft: check the play and condition of the crosspieces every 20 thousand km.
- 🛠️ Differential: in models with VLSD (For example, Z) use only original oil
Nissan Differential Oil Hypoid Super GL-5.
2. Engine and cooling:
- 🔥 Turbines: in GT-R And Z The turbine resource is ~150 thousand km with proper operation.
- 💧 Cooling system: in Patrol with
VK56VDRadiators often clog - wash them every 2 years.
⚠️ Attention: B Nissan GT-R It is strictly forbidden to use non-original spark plugs - this leads to detonation and damage to the pistons. Original candles Nissan 22401-JA02A serve up to 30 thousand km.
3. Suspension and steering:
- 🚗 Silent blocks: in Patrol The rear silent blocks of the levers fail at 100 thousand km.
- 🔩 Wheel bearings: in Z And 370Z their resource is about 80 thousand km.
For sports models (GT-R, Z) it is recommended to check the condition of the subframe every 50 thousand km - it can crack during intensive driving over uneven surfaces. B Patrol The main problem is corrosion of the side members, so before buying a used one, be sure to drive the car on a lift.
FAQ: answers to popular questions
Is it possible to convert a front-wheel drive Nissan to rear-wheel drive?
This is technically possible, but extremely expensive. For example, rework Nissan Almera or Qashqai to rear-wheel drive will require replacing the entire rear suspension, installing a driveshaft, gearbox and body modification. The cost of such work often exceeds the price of the car itself. It is much easier to buy a ready-made rear-wheel drive model, for example, 370Z or Patrol.
Which rear-wheel drive Nissan is the most reliable?
According to repair statistics and owner reviews, the most reliable is considered Nissan Patrol Y62 with petrol VK56VD. With proper maintenance, this engine can easily cover 300+ thousand km without major repairs. The leader in reliability among sports cars is 370Z with atmospheric VQ37VHR, but its resource is limited to ~200 thousand km due to high loads.
Should you buy a Nissan GT-R for everyday driving?
GT-R is a track car, adapted for the road, but not for everyday use. Among the disadvantages: rigid suspension, high fuel consumption (18–22 l/100 km), expensive maintenance (for example, replacing turbines costs ~500 thousand rubles) and difficulties with spare parts. If you need a comfortable sports car, it's better to consider Z (400Z).
What kind of oil should I put in the Nissan rear gearbox?
For most rear wheel drive Nissan (including Patrol, Z, 370Z) original oil is recommended Nissan Differential Oil Hypoid Super GL-5 80W-90 (art. KE909-99932). For GT-R special oil is used Nissan R230 Differential Oil (art. KL31-30000), which changes every 30 thousand km.
Can a rear wheel drive Nissan be towed with a flex hitch?
No, rear wheel drive Nissan with automatic transmission (eg Patrol, Z with automatic transmission) cannot be towed on a flexible hitch - this will lead to damage to the automatic transmission. Only towing with a rigid hitch or tow truck is permitted. For mechanical boxes (eg 370Z with manual transmission) towing on a flexible hitch is allowed at a speed of up to 50 km/h and for a distance of no more than 50 km.