Car Nissan Skyline - a legend of the Japanese automobile industry, whose history goes back more than 60 years. During this time, the model has undergone a lot of changes: from modest sedans of the 1950s to powerful sports cars and luxury limousines. But one question worries potential owners of all generations: how many seats in Nissan Skyline? The answer is not as clear-cut as it might seem. The number of seats varies depending on the generation, body style and even market.
If you are planning a purchase Skyline for a family, it is important to understand that even within one generation (for example, R34) versions could be produced with different interior layouts. In some places these are classic 5 seats, and in others they are exclusive 4-seater modifications with individual seats. In this article we will look at all generations of Skyline (from C10 to V37), we will indicate exact numbers by location, and also reveal the nuances that sellers are silent about.
1. Classic generations (C10–R31): from 4 to 5 seats
First Skyline (1957–1988) were modest sedans and station wagons designed for practical use. In these generations, the number of seats depended on body type and configuration:
- 🚗 C10/C110 (1968–1977): 5 seats in a sedan, 4–5 in a station wagon (depending on the configuration of the rear sofa).
- 🏁 R30 (1981–1985): 5 seats in all versions except rare sports modifications with hard rear seats (actually 4 seats).
- 🔧 R31 (1985–1989): 5 seats in basic versions, but in Skyline GTS-R the rear sofa was narrower, which made seating for three people uncomfortable.
Interesting fact: in R30 And R31 sometimes meet 2-seater versions - These are rare racing prototypes or tuned examples, where the rear row has been removed to reduce weight. Such machines are not intended for everyday use.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Skyline Before 1990, check the condition of the rear sofa. In older cars, the springs and padding are often worn out, making it unsafe for three people to sit in the back row.
| Generation | Years of manufacture | Body | Number of seats | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C10 | 1968–1972 | Sedan/Wagon | 5 | The station wagon could be equipped with a folding 3rd row (7 seats - extremely rare). |
| R30 | 1981–1985 | Sedan/Coupe | 4–5 | B GTS-R the rear sofa is already 10 cm. |
| R31 | 1985–1989 | Sedan/Hardtop | 5 | In Japan, versions with folding rear seats were sold. |
2. Legendary R32, R33, R34: 4 or 5 seats?
These generations (1989–2002) are the most coveted among fans Skyline. Here the number of seats is directly related to modification:
- 🔥 GT-R (R32/R33/R34): always 4 seats — The rear sofa is divided into two individual armchairs with high headrests.
- 🚘 GT-S, GT-T, 25GT: 5 seats, but the back row is narrow (only comfortable for two adults).
- 💼 25GT Four (only R33): 5 seats with a full sofa, but is rare.
Important: in GT-R The rear seats are often called "children's" seats due to their minimal legroom. A passenger taller than 175 cm will make riding in the back row torture. But in 25GT The rear seat is wider, but still not intended for three adults.
- R32
- R33
- R34
- Other
⚠️ Attention: B R34 GT-R Rear seat belts are often missing or faulty due to racing modifications. Before purchasing, check their availability, otherwise the car will not be legalized in some countries.
If you need practicality, pay attention to R33 25GT Four - This is the only version with a full 5-seater interior and an automatic transmission. However, such cars are extremely rare in Russia.
3. V35 and V36 (2001–2014): transition to premium
With the advent V35 (2001) Skyline became a premium sedan, losing its sporty spirit. Here the number of seats has been standardized:
- 🏢 V35 (2001–2006): 5 seats in all versions including 350GT And 250GT.
- 🚀 V36 (2006–2014): 5 seats, but in Coupe (2007–2014) the back row is designed for two (actually 4 seats).
B V36 Coupe The rear seats are more of a check mark for legality than proper seats. It’s difficult even for a child to get there, let alone an adult. But the sedans V35/V36 quite comfortable for five people, especially in versions with a long wheelbase (Skyline 350GT-8).
| Modification | Body | Number of seats | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| V35 250GT | Sedan | 5 | The rear sofa is wider than in GT-R, but legroom is limited. |
| V36 350GT Coupe | Coupe | 4 | The rear seats are narrow and suitable only for children. |
| V36 250GT Four | Sedan | 5 | The only version with all-wheel drive and 5 seats. |
If you need a practical Skyline for family, look V35/V36 sedan with index Four - These are versions with all-wheel drive and a normal rear row.
4. Modern V37 (2014–present): luxury or sport?
Current generation Skyline (since 2014) is represented by two lines:
- Skyline Sedan (for Japan and Asia): 5 seats, but the back row is designed for two adults + a child.
- Infiniti Q50 (export version): 5 seats, but in the coupe version the back row is symbolic (4 seats).
B V37 The manufacturer focused on comfort: the rear sofa became wider, heating and ventilation appeared. However ceiling height remained a problem - passengers taller than 180 cm will feel cramped. In versions with panoramic roof (Skyline 400R) the problem is getting worse.
⚠️ Attention: B Skyline V37 with a hybrid installation (Hybrid) the back row may be narrower by 5 cm due to the placement of batteries under the floor. Check with your dealer before purchasing.
Why are there no 7-seater versions in the Skyline V37?
Unlike competitors (for example, Toyota Crown Majesta), Nissan positions Skyline like a sports sedan rather than a family car. Therefore, 7-seat modifications were not produced even for the Japanese market.
5. Special and limited editions: exceptions to the rules
For history Skyline unique versions with a non-standard interior layout were produced:
- 🚕 Skyline Taxi (R33): 5 seats with reinforced rear bench and partition.
- 🏆 Skyline GT-R Nismo (R34): 4 seats with carbon rear seats (each weighs only 8 kg!).
- 💎 Skyline Crossover (V37): 2019 concept with 4 seats and a raised seating position (did not go into production).
The rarest version - Skyline M30 (1979) from 6 places (3+3). It was an experimental station wagon for the Japanese police, from which the trunk was removed in favor of an additional row of seats. Today there are less than 10 such machines left.
Make sure that the rear seat belts are original|Check the seat mountings for corrosion|Check the VIN with the documentation (many “rare” versions are alterations)|Assess the legroom (in the GT-R the back row is often cut)-->
6. How to choose Skyline by number of seats: a practical guide
If you need Skyline for your family, follow these guidelines:
- For 5 passengers: Search V35/V36 Sedan or R33 25GT Four. Avoid GT-R and coupe.
- For 4 passengers: Anyone will do GT-R (R32–R34) or V36 Coupe. Rear seats are tight but tolerable for short trips.
- For 2 passengers: Consider Skyline Coupe (V36/V37) or tuned versions without a back row.
Remember: in Japan Skyline were often used as taxis, so the rear sofa could be replaced with a non-original one. Always check:
- 🔍 Condition of seat fastenings (corrosion is a common problem).
- 📏 Width of the back row (in GT-R it is 15–20 cm narrower than in sedans).
- 🚗 Availability of ISOFIX (models before 2000 do not have it).
If you need Skyline for a family, the best choice is V35/V36 Sedan with index Four. These are the only versions with all-wheel drive, seating for 5 and reasonable legroom.
7. Common mistakes when choosing Skyline based on the number of seats
Many buyers face disappointment without taking into account the nuances:
- Error 1: Purchase GT-R for the family. Rear seats in R32–R34 Designed for short trips and not for daily use.
- Error 2: Ignoring ceiling height. B V37 With a panoramic roof, passengers taller than 175 cm will be uncomfortable.
- Error 3: Trust in photographs. Many sellers photograph the interior with the front seats reclined, creating the illusion of space.
To avoid problems, always sit in the back row before purchasing. Ideally, take the tallest passenger with you who will ride in the car. B Skyline Even a 5cm difference in height can make the ride comfortable or unbearable.
⚠️ Attention: B Skyline V37 with option Premium Package the rear sofa may be narrower by 3 cm due to additional sound insulation. Check with your dealer for details.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to install 5 seats in the Skyline GT-R (R34)?
Technically yes, but this will require a complete replacement of the rear row, alteration of the fastenings and re-registration with the traffic police. The cost of such work often exceeds reasonable limits. Much easier to buy 25GT with factory 5 seats.
Which Skyline has the most room for rear passengers?
Skyline V35 350GT-8 (extended base) or V36 250GT Four. In these versions, legroom in the back row reaches 80 cm - this is enough for a passenger up to 185 cm tall.
Does the Skyline have 7 seat versions?
Officially no. The only experiment Skyline M30 (1979) with 6 seats, but it was a police modification. All "7-seater" Skyline on the market - homemade modifications, often unsafe.
Can the Skyline V37 Coupe carry two adults in the back?
Formally yes, but in practice it will be extremely inconvenient. The coupe's rear seats are narrow (each is about 40cm wide) and legroom is limited due to the sloping roof. Maximum 30 minute trip.
Which Skylines are suitable for child seats?
Only V35/V36 Sedan And V37 (except coupe). These models have ISOFIX and enough space to install a seat. B GT-R and older generations (up to V35) it is not safe to attach a child seat.