Though not entirely new, enthusiasts were shocked and elated that Nissan decided to renew its sports car for another generation. Nissan latest interpretation of it's read-drive, sports-car icon takes everything that made the previous model great and massages and modernizes it, now simply calling it the Z. Riding a similar chassis and sporting similar dimensions the new Z gets a new engine, a freshened exterior and an all note interior. Competitors include the BMW 2-Series, Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang and Toyota Supra.
The model lineup consists of Sport, Performance and Proto Spec. All get a brand-new turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that develops 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Increases of 50 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque over the previous engine. Transmission choices include a 9-speed automatic with launch control or a 6-speed manual with rev-matching. Improvements were also made to the steering, suspension and braking systems in the refresh.
Prices start at $40,444 for the Sport, $51,899 for the Performance and $54,899 for the Proto Spec. Standard safety features include forward-collision warning with brake intervention, lane-departure warning, blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. All models get LED headlights, keyless entry and ignition, digital instrument cluster, auto climate control and Apple Car Play and Android Auto support. Performance adds upgraded wheels, tires and brakes, mechanical limited-slip differential, leather upholstery and upgraded infotainment system. Proto Spec is production limited to just 240 units and includes special wheels and interior and exterior accents.
With significantly more horsepower and torque, Nissan's turbocharged V6 is just what the doctor ordered to get the Z back on track as a true sports car. While not quite as quick as the Supra or Mustang Mach 1, the engine provides plenty of acceleration off the line and great passing punch. From a standstill, it will push the coupe from 0-60 MPH in 5 seconds flat.
Transmission performance is a plus as well. The 9-speed automatic shifts quickly and smoothly and even skips gears at time to help aid fuel economy. With a firm clutch and positive throw shifter, the 6-speed manual is a delight to operate. In addition, the re-matching mode on performance models can make even beginners to manual transmissions look like pros.
As is the case with most sports cars, putting the power to the pavement can be difficult. Thankfully the Performance trim comes with a limited-slip differential that minimizes oversteer tendances when accelerating out of a corner. Still, the Z is not really intended to be driven in the winter.
Fuel economy isn't a plus. Automatic models net a 22 MPG combined EPA rating and manual-transmission models average only 20 MPG combined. Both numbers trail competitors a bit, but not by much. As is the case with nearly every car in the class, premium-grade fuel is required.
Though the Z is likely to hug the road better than just about any car out there, it trails class leaders in overall refinement. Where a Supra or Camaro feels composed and inspires confidence at the limit, the Z tends to be a bit skittish and unsettled. To be clear, we are only talking about going full chat through a bumpy corner or a max braking. When driven like a grand touring car, the Z might offer a bit more refinement and flexibility as the suspension is reasonably subtle, the steering not on the razor's edge and the torquey engine proves powerful without the obligatory downshift.
Those looking to add a bit more polish to the Z can opt for the NISMO handling package. It puts the Z on par with the competition and doesn't destroy the ride or break the bank. Either way, the Z can provide a reasonably comfortable ride and makes for an excellent road-trip choice.
Interior noise levels are appropriate for a sports car and the glorious exhaust noise makes the need for a radio somewhat moot!
Inside the Z, the low-slung cockpit and driver-oriented layout plays the role of sports car to a T. The digital instrument cluster is new, but proves to be quite configurable and adds a modern touch to the otherwise dark interior. Materials are appropriate for the price point, but don't scream premium in any way. The same can be said for ancillary buttons and switchgear that don't have a parts-bin feel but also lack the snick-snick precision found in some other sports cars.
While the Z might fall a little short of its competitors in the performance department, it more than makes up for that with a roomy and comfortable cabin. The Z's seats are comfortable and provide good head and leg room. Though the seating position is low, the view forward is good. Not so much the view out back, but then again, are you really worried about what's behind you?
Controls and switch gear are excellent from an operation standpoint. Everything is within easy reach and the controls are well marked and simple to operate. Thankfully, the infotainment system doesn't require a MIT education to operate and the large touchscreen on the uplevel Performance trim responds nicely to input.
Though the Z is a hatchback, there's just a scant 7 cubic feet of cargo space, which trails the class leaders. In addition, the cargo hold is somewhat shallow, meaning taller items will brush up against the glass. Interior storage is meager, but that's expected for this class of vehicle. There are some nice larger storage bins behind the seat backs, which is a nice touch.
Bottom Line - The Z is back, and loyalists couldn't be happier. This version is the best and most competitive in a long while. All of the interior foibles have been cleaned up and there's a case to be made for this version being an acceptable daily driver. It was wise for Nissan to avoid trying to go toe-to-toe with class leaders in terms of performance. Rather, they created an exceptional grand touring sports car that can be "modded" at an affordable price. Sort of like a hyper version of the Subaru BR-Z or Toyota GT86. Kudos to Nissan in that respect.
|
|