Vehicle Overview Nissan’s latest Z car promises not to offend fans of the outgoing generation — it looks pretty similar but, not surprisingly, offers more power. Accordingly, the numerical designation changes from “350” to “370” to account for a larger V-6 under the hood, with output climbing to 332 horsepower from last year’s 306 hp. Other changes include a new interior, retuned suspension, larger brakes and a new seven-speed automatic transmission option.
As before, the Z seats two and comes only in rear-wheel drive. It competes with cars ranging from the Mazda RX-8 to Detroit’s latest muscle coupes: the restyled Ford Mustang, recently introduced Dodge Challenger and all-new Chevrolet Camaro.
Trim levels include base 370Z and 370Z Touring. Nissan also makes a 2009 350Z, but it’s the convertible version of the previous-generation Z. There’s no 370Z convertible — yet.
Exterior The Z is actually a bit shorter than its predecessor, but its roofline carries the same low-cut slant. Most noticeably different are new boomerang-shaped headlights, which look a bit like the ones on Nissan’s flagship Maxima sedan. Vertical pillars split the front air dam, while the taillights have a similar boomerang shape. The tail has a slight shelf, probably the single biggest differentiator to the car’s profile from before.
Dual exhaust pipes are standard, as are 18-inch wheels. Nineteen-inchers are optional.
Interior Like before, the Z’s interior has a minimalist look with a sculpted dash wrapping around the gauges and passenger confines. A three-spoke steering wheel carries a simple “Z” logo, while the center controls have leather-stitched accents flanking each side. Behind the seats, the previous Z’s rear strut brace has been replaced by a conventional cargo shelf for better luggage accommodations; Nissan says the strut brace’s body-stiffening benefits have been replaced by less intrusive “structural reinforcements.”
Standard features include keyless access with push-button start, power windows and locks and a four-speaker CD stereo with steering wheel controls. The Touring adds four-way power seats with leather upholstery, heated seats, and a six-CD Bose stereo. A navigation system is optional.
Under the Hood The Z’s 3.7-liter V-6 uses Nissan’s high-tech VVEL valve-lift system — it’s not unlike BMW’s Valvetronic — to achieve 332 hp at a zingy 7,000 rpm. Peak torque is 270 pounds-feet at 5,200 rpm. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and it comes with Nissan’s new downshift rev-match feature, which matches downshifts like a good heel-and-toe driver might do on a racetrack. A seven-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles is optional; it replaces last year’s five-speed automatic.
Safety Active head restraints, dual front-, side-impact and side curtain airbags are standard. Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes are also standard, as are traction control and an electronic stability system. Optional upgraded brake discs measure a massive 14.0 inches — larger than a Ferrari 599 GTB’s. The standard brakes measure 12.6 inches.
