A sharper chassis, improved cooling, and a driver-focused gearbox finally give the top-tier Z the engagement enthusiasts expected.
A Familiar Shape, Lightly Reworked
The 2027 Nissan Z doesn’t stray far from its existing design, but the facelift introduces a revised front end that softens the sharper edges of the outgoing model. A reshaped bumper and a cleaner grille, now with a body-color bar and horizontal elements, help improve airflow while reducing lift and drag.
A small but symbolic change replaces the traditional Nissan badge with a “Z” emblem up front, reinforcing the car’s heritage-driven identity. New 19-inch forged wheels and a fresh Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic paint option (paired with a black roof) round out the exterior tweaks, drawing inspiration from early Z models.
Interior Changes Stay Subtle
Inside, updates are minimal but targeted. Performance trims now offer tan upholstery, adding a more upscale look, while both Performance and Nismo variants gain a Qi2 wireless charging pad capable of delivering up to 15 watts with improved device compatibility.
The rest of the cabin remains largely unchanged, with a digital gauge cluster, an 8- or 9-inch infotainment display, and standard features like automatic climate control and driver assistance systems. Audio options continue to include a base six-speaker system or an upgraded Bose setup in higher trims.
Small Tweaks With Real Impact
Beyond styling, Nissan made functional improvements that matter more on the road, and especially on track. A redesigned fuel tank helps maintain consistent fuel delivery during high-G cornering, addressing a common issue in performance driving scenarios. The Z Performance also benefits from larger shock absorbers, which improve vibration control. The result is a more composed ride and better predictability when pushing the car harder through corners.
The Big One: Manual Nismo Arrives
The headline change for 2027 is the introduction of a six-speed manual transmission for the Z Nismo. Previously limited to an automatic, the flagship variant now gets a gearbox engineered specifically for it, including an upgraded clutch and revised shift linkage.
The shorter shift throws are designed to feel more mechanical and direct, while unique engine tuning sharpens throttle response when paired with the manual. Nissan also recalibrated its Active Sound Enhancement and noise cancellation systems to better suit the new driving experience.
Track-Focused Hardware Upgrades
The Nismo’s changes go deeper than just the transmission. It receives new front brakes with two-piece iron-aluminum rotors derived from the GT-R, cutting nearly 19 pounds while improving heat management under heavy use.
Suspension tuning has been revised, and the steering system sees a notable upgrade with a 20% reduction in internal friction. This translates to smoother, more natural steering inputs and fewer mid-corner corrections, particularly noticeable during aggressive driving.
Power Stays Strong, With a Familiar Hierarchy
Under the hood, the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 carries over with familiar output figures. The standard Z Sport and Performance models produce 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, while the Nismo maintains its 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft. For 2027, all trims now come standard with a six-speed manual transmission, though a nine-speed automatic remains available as an option.
Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but the outgoing model ranged from just under $43,000 to roughly $65,750 for the Nismo.
