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Road Test

The reincarnated Nissan Z has the potent engine, crisp handling, and strong braking you’d expect from a proper two-seat, rear-wheel-drive sports car. It draws elements and lines from the prior six generations, such as the long, sloped hood and wide rear flanks, which began with the Datsun 240Z in 1970. And although the new Z drops the numerical prefix, it remains close to the mechanical formula honed over the 350Z and 370Z generations. 

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New Models Predicted Reliability

This Car
vs. Similar Cars

Safety Features

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) w/Pedestrian
Standard
AEB Highway
Standard
Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Warning (RCTW)
Standard

Safety Features

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) w/Pedestrian
Standard
AEB Highway
Standard
Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Warning (RCTW)
Standard

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

Safety Features

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) w/Pedestrian
Standard
AEB Highway
Standard
Blind Spot Warning (BSW)
Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Warning (RCTW)
Standard

Sports cars 2-seat Ratings

$42,970 - $65,750
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CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
$54,500 - $67,000
economy-icon
CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
$68,300 - $194,300
economy-icon
CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction

CR Take

$77,900 - $115,000
economy-icon
EPA MPG 18 mpg
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
$29,330 - $40,650
economy-icon
CR MPG
Road test
Predicted Reliability
Predicted Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    coupe
Seating
2 front
Drive Wheels
Rear
Engines Available
  • 3-liter V6 turbo (420 hp)
  • 3-liter V6 turbo (400 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • 9-speed automatic
  • 6-speed manual
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle
  • Basic 3 years/36,000 miles
  • Drivetrain 5 years/60,000 miles
  • Corrosion 5 years/unlimited miles
  • Roadside Aid 3 years/36,000 miles
  • Maintenance 2 years/24,000 miles
Model History
2023-
Current Generation

The all-new 2023 Nissan Z sports car has the classic long, sloped hood and wide rear flanks that evoke the early versions of this storied nameplate. The rear-drive Z has a 400-horsepower, 3.0-liter turbocharged twin-turbo V6, marking a significant 50+ hp increase over the previous 370Z's output. That fiery powerplant can be paired with a choice of six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Nissan is keeping it simple by making the available active safety features standard on all trims. This includes FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, BSW, RCTW, and lane departure warning.

2009-2022
2009 Redesign Year

The coupe was redesigned for 2009, with the engine getting a displacement increase to 3.7 liters. The revised convertible followed a year later. This version of the Z car is a bit shorter and lighter than the one it replaced. It also has much better interior fit and finish. Nissan's two-seat sports car is quick, agile and enjoyable to drive. Its V6 is muscular yet cultured and smooth. Shift action is a bit notchy, but crisp and positive in feel. Handling is very agile, with direct steering and lots of cornering grip. On the other hand, road and tire noise are constant and the cabin is cramped. Visibility takes a back seat as well. Updates for 2015 included standard Bluetooth and revised suspension tuning. New additions for 2016 include an optional noise cancellation/enhancement system aimed at quieting some of the offensive racket while creating "natural engine sounds to help bolster the driver's acceleration experience." The Z is also offered as a hot-rod Nismo version, which gets you exterior aerodynamic add-ons, 19-inch wheels, Recaro seats, a stiffer suspension and 18 more horsepower. Updates for 2018 include some interior and exterior enhancements.

2003-2008
2003 Redesign Year
The 350Z bowed for 2003, sharing components with the Infiniti G-series. A focused and capable sports car, acceleration is very quick and handling is good, though not as agile as some. The six-speed manual has a notchy shifter. Keep in mind we're talking budget sports car here, so the ride is harsh, the cabin is cramped, and tire and road noise are pronounced. Rear visibility is also poor. A convertible with a power-operated top is available too. Later models had improved interior materials and a slightly better ride.