Nissan weighs Silvia comeback with new turbo and possible hybrid power
Nissan could bring Silvia back with a new-generation powertrain
Nissan weighs Silvia comeback with new turbo and possible hybrid power
Nissan is considering bringing back the Silvia, but any successor would move on from the SR20 era and could arrive with a modern turbo engine or hybrid-assisted setup.
2026-04-22T12:39:02+03:00
2026-04-22T12:39:02+03:00
2026-04-22T12:39:02+03:00
Nissan is considering reviving the iconic Silvia sports car, but the new model could be radically different from its predecessors. The key question is the powertrain: the legendary SR20DET will not return, with modern turbo engines and possible hybrid assistance expected to take its place.A new chapter for Silvia without the SR20The classic SR engine family was discontinued many years ago, and Nissan has no plans to bring it back. At the same time, the brand’s management is actively discussing some level of electrification for the model in order to meet modern market and environmental requirements.That means the new Silvia may emerge not simply as an heir to the S15, but as a fully rethought product aimed at rivals such as the Toyota GR86, Subaru BRZ and Mazda MX-5.Which engines Nissan is consideringTwo engine families are seen as the main candidates. The first is the KR series, including the 1.5-litre KR15DDT turbo engine with variable compression technology and support for the e-Power hybrid system. In hybrid form, combined output could reach about 200 to 210 hp.The second option is the MR family, including the turbocharged MR18DDT known from the Alpine A110. Its potential is significantly higher: up to 296 hp and around 310 Nm of torque. That engine is better aligned with the classic idea of a rear-wheel-drive coupe.A compromise between emotion and current trendsThe main intrigue is the format of the new model. Nissan could offer either a traditional turbo version or a hybrid Silvia with the e-Power system. However, that approach could alienate enthusiasts who value a more mechanical connection with the car.Even so, the strategy looks logical: the automaker is trying to cut emissions while bringing back an emotional product capable of attracting a younger audience.
Nissan is considering bringing back the Silvia, but any successor would move on from the SR20 era and could arrive with a modern turbo engine or hybrid-assisted setup.
Michael Powers, Editor
Nissan is considering reviving the iconic Silvia sports car, but the new model could be radically different from its predecessors. The key question is the powertrain: the legendary SR20DET will not return, with modern turbo engines and possible hybrid assistance expected to take its place.
A new chapter for Silvia without the SR20
The classic SR engine family was discontinued many years ago, and Nissan has no plans to bring it back. At the same time, the brand’s management is actively discussing some level of electrification for the model in order to meet modern market and environmental requirements.
That means the new Silvia may emerge not simply as an heir to the S15, but as a fully rethought product aimed at rivals such as the Toyota GR86, Subaru BRZ and Mazda MX-5.
Which engines Nissan is considering
Two engine families are seen as the main candidates. The first is the KR series, including the 1.5-litre KR15DDT turbo engine with variable compression technology and support for the e-Power hybrid system. In hybrid form, combined output could reach about 200 to 210 hp.
The second option is the MR family, including the turbocharged MR18DDT known from the Alpine A110. Its potential is significantly higher: up to 296 hp and around 310 Nm of torque. That engine is better aligned with the classic idea of a rear-wheel-drive coupe.
A compromise between emotion and current trends
The main intrigue is the format of the new model. Nissan could offer either a traditional turbo version or a hybrid Silvia with the e-Power system. However, that approach could alienate enthusiasts who value a more mechanical connection with the car.
Even so, the strategy looks logical: the automaker is trying to cut emissions while bringing back an emotional product capable of attracting a younger audience.
