Nissan may be struggling these days, but the brand’s still got some fight left as it revealed an updated version of its popular Nissan Z for 2027, including a Nismo model with a six-speed manual transmission.
The return of the manual brings the Z back to its roots and silences critics who have chided the automaker in the past for not offering drivers a chance to clutch their way around town. The new manual is paired with brakes similar to those on the GT-R model for its new 420-horsepower Nismo variant.
“We’ve listened to everything Nissan Z fans and owners have been asking for, and we’re answering the call with the most exhilarating, driver-focused version of the seventh-generation Z yet,” said Marco Fioravanti, vice president, product planning, Nissan U.S. and Canada. “The six-speed manual in Z Nismo was specifically engineered for a pure and focused experience, while targeted handling and braking upgrades give more consistent and more capable track performance.”
The Nismo is joined by the Sport trim and will hit dealership this summer. Pricing on the new model wasn’t released. The current model starts at $42,970 before destination fees while the 2026 Nismo begins at $65,750.
And while the current Nismo is also 420 hp, it is available only as an automatic. The other Z models put out 400 hp and don’t get the upgraded brakes and suspension enjoyed by the Nismo variant. The 2027 Nismo’s twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 is tuned specifically for the six-speed manual, adjusting the throttle and ignition timing to maximize throttle response and smoother, more consistent torque delivery, officials noted.
A quick look at the 2027 Z reveals the company restyled the front bumper and grille, borrowing from “classic Nissan sports cars.” A body-color bar bisects the car’s grille opening, while a new “Z” emblem replaces the Nissan logo on its nose. Careful shaping of the bumper, grille and internal ducting optimize cooling airflow, while reducing aerodynamic lift and drag, Nissan noted.
In addition, the Z Performance trim gets larger diameter monotube shock absorbers to reduce vibration, providing a smoother ride that helps with handling performance. All versions of the new Z feature a redesigned fuel tank that helps maintain fuel levels around the fuel pump during aggressive high-G cornering, ensuring consistent and sustained power during those maneuvers.
Nissan’s offering the Z in a new color this year: Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic, which is paired exclusively with a Super Black roof. Nissan claims the inspiration for the new hue is the classic S30-generation Nissan Z sports car.
[Images: Nissan]
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