Nissan’s new rear-wheel drive Z sports car has been confirmed for a New Zealand launch in 2022, following yesterday’s grand reveal in the US.
It’s unknown when the much anticipated sportster is set to land locally, but Kiwis should count their lucky stars. Europe is set to miss out on the Nissan Z entirely, due to the region’s strict emissions regulations.
Pricing and spec for the model has yet to be confirmed, although it’s expected to undercut the $99,290 Toyota GR Supra by a handy chunk. It’s expected that Nissan’s local arm will favour the more high-specification Performance trim.
As previously reported, Nissan has given the Z its ‘VR30DDTT’ 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6, borrowed from the Infiniti Q50 Red Sport. It produces 298kW (400hp) of power at 6400rpm and 475Nm of torque at 1600-5600rpm, sending this output exclusively to the rear wheels.
The Z comes with either a close ratio six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic. The former features a high-performance clutch supplied by Exedy, and it’s tipped that the latter is a torque-converted 9G-Tronic unit borrowed from Mercedes-Benz.
Nissan doesn’t quote a 0-100km/h time, stating only that the Z will hit 100km/h around 15 per cent faster than the outgoing 370Z. Given the 370Z performs this feat in around 5.3 seconds, the Z should be able to topple the ton in about 4.5 seconds.
The Nissan Z Performance also adds a mechanical limited-slip differential, larger brakes, forged 19-inch wheels sourced from Rays, dual exhaust, and a mild front and rear spoiler duo.
Inside, the premium grade also gains leather upholstery, a larger 9-inch infotainment screen, 8-speaker Bose audio, WiFi, sport pedals, heated and power-operated seats, and more.
