So, it seems the rumours were true: one of the most sought-after features when it comes to the Nissan Z Nismo sports car will be coming for the 2027 model year: — a manual transmission. It comes as part of a complete refresh for the model that brings a restyled front bumper and grille, as well as a “Z” logo instead of a Nissan logo on the nose.
More than just a stylistic touch, the new grille – which receives a body coloured bar to bisect its opening – optimizes airflow and reduces drag. The Z Performance model, meanwhile, gets new 19-inch wheels as well as a tan interior trim option. Previously, charcoal grey or charcoal grey with red trim were the only interior colour options. Also on the colour front: a new Shinkai Green with Super Black roof will now be available. The colour combo is inspired by the original 1970 Datsun 240Z.
Under the hood, 2027 sees the arrival of two-piece front brakes with improved cooling that weigh 19 pounds less than previous. Since those front brakes are lighter, the front suspension has been tuned in order to accommodate that, and there’s 20 per cent less friction in the steering rack for more precise steering inputs and a less need for steering angle corrections.
The Z Performance model gets larger-diameter monotube shocks for a smoother ride and better handling, as well as a new fuel tank design to avoid fuel starvation during high-G cornering.
2027 Nissan Z NISMO
2027 Nissan Z NISMO
2027 Nissan Z NISMO
2027 Nissan Z NISMO
2027 Nissan Z NISMO
2027 Nissan Z NISMO
The NISMO’s six-speed manual is shared with the other two models in the line-up, but it gets an upgraded clutch and short-throw shifter. Nissan has also adjusted the throttle and ignition timing for better throttle response. All we know is that as much as we liked the Z NISMO when we drove it, we knew the transmission would be the icing on the cake.
The 2027 Nissan Z will begin to arrive in Canadian dealers this summer.