Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.The GT-R R35 ReimaginedAutomakers release concept cars to explore ideas that may hint at possible future models, or simply to test public reception before committing to full production. Sometimes, however, car enthusiasts take it upon themselves to create unique builds that showcase concepts automakers may never pursue themselves – case in point: this Nissan GT-R R35-looking SUV spotted by renowned automotive photographer Larry Chen.While the GT-R R35-inspired design is immediately recognizable, few would guess that the vehicle underneath is actually a 2004 Nissan Murano. The concept project is particularly noteworthy at a time when many legacy brands have embraced high-performance crossovers and SUVs, with models such as the Ferrari Purosangue. Nissan did create the Juke-R, which packed a GT-R-sourced twin-turbocharged V6, but production was limited to just five examples.Reworking RealityThe build quality may not be perfect, but the builder still deserves credit for trying to keep it as authentic-looking as possible. It features original R35 headlights, taillights, steering wheel, shift knob, and wheels. Since the Murano and GT-R obviously have very different proportions, the front and rear bumpers from an R35 conversion kit were reportedly modified.AdvertisementAdvertisementUnlike the Juke-R, this custom build retains the Murano's stock engine. After all, shoehorning a GT-R's VR38DETT engine into the crossover would likely present significant packaging and financial challenges. Nonetheless, it succeeds in getting people to think about what an SUV version of the GT-R R35 might look like.Chen said the vehicle took about a year to build, including five months for paintwork and three months of testing.Larry Chen/InstagramNissan's Real PrioritiesGiven that the Nissan GT-R R35 ended production last year, the chances of seeing an SUV version are little to none. The next-generation model is expected to feature some form of electrification, though reports suggest U.S. emissions regulations have complicated its development path. Whether Nissan will enter the high-performance crossover/SUV segment remains to be seen, but demand is hard to ignore.For Nissan buyers looking for such a vehicle, the closest option for now is the Armada Nismo, which produces 460 horsepower. In the U.S., however, the brand's focus appears to be on introducing new body-on-frame vehicles, including the Xterra, echoing Toyota's approach with the Tundra, Tacoma, and Sequoia.Larry Chen/InstagramView the 3 images of this gallery on the original articleAdvertisementAdvertisementThis story was originally published by Autoblog on Jun 14, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.