It"s been four years...

It"s been four years since the GT-R Concept was revealed, and enthusiasts around the world are waiting expectantly to see the new car unveiled in the metal. If the stylish lines on this official sketch are anything to go by, the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show machine will prove that Nissan means business with its new global supercar.

Appearing in "almost" final production guise, the GT-R Proto looks far more aggressive than its 2001 predecessor, and incorporates several innovative design tweaks. However, unlike its forerunners, it won"t wear a Skyline badge, although it will be officially imported to the UK and available through Nissan"s dealer network as the GT-R. Retaining some styling cues from the R-34 version, which was last sold in the UK in 2002, it has four round tail-lights and a squat coupнѓ© stance. A diffuser visible under the rear bumper will be more than simply a design feature, providing valuable high-speed downforce.

The front end wears a distinctive grille, but key rival Mitsubishi will be the first to point out its similarity to the Evo X show car, which is also set to debut in Tokyo. Both models will attract similar buyers, yet the Nissan will be faster and more expensive, and has the Porsche 911 in its sights.

Company bosses are remaining tight-lipped about final specifications, but one source tells us that engineers are currently testing a four-wheel-drive prototype packing a twin-turbocharged 3.7-litre V6 engine. Expected to produce more than 450bhp, the specially developed motor is mated to a two-pedal seven-speed automatic-manual transmission complete with manual override. Inside, the coupнѓ© is expected to offer seating for only two passengers. But, as with its 350Z little brother, the GT-R will provide plenty of luggage space accessed via a conventional tailgate. Development is still ongoing, and the new model won"t go on sale until September 2007.