2023 Nissan Z Starts at $41,015, Undercuts Toyota Supra
The imminent arrival of the 2023 Nissan Z is proof that sports cars aren’t dead — and neither are manual transmissions. The latest Z car shares a platform with the previous-generation 370Z, but the sports coupe has been infused with more power, torque and modern amenities. Despite these notable changes, the new Z continues to honor the iconic nameplate with the return of a six-speed manual transmission and a relatively affordable starting price.
Related: 2023 Nissan Z Review: Relatively Affordable, Lots of Fun
More Power
All trims of the 2023 Nissan Z are powered by a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine that makes 400 horsepower and 350 pounds-feet of torque. The V-6 can be matched with a standard nine-speed automatic transmission or an available six-speed manual. The new powertrain brings an additional 68 hp and 80 pounds-feet compared to the 370Z.
Based on Cars.com editor Mike Hanley’s first impressions, the performance upgrades are palpable. The V-6 engine is smooth and refined, the nine-speed automatic brings faster acceleration and a new launch control feature, and the six-speed manual is more engaging.
Revamped Tech and Safety
The new Z also comes with a fresh interior and new tech features. The base Sport trim comes with an 8-inch touchscreen and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; higher trims get a larger 9-inch screen with navigation. All models swap the previous Z’s analog instrument panel for a 12.3-inch digital version. A suite of safety and driver-assist features comes standard with forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control and automatic high-beam headlights.
Trims, Pricing and Release Date
The 2023 Z will launch in the summer with three available trims: Sport, Performance and a limited-run Proto Spec of which only 240 units will be produced. Pricing is the same for either transmission option.
The base Sport starts at $41,015 (all prices include a $1,025 destination charge) and the Performance at $51,015. The $10,000 premium adds heated leather seats, performance brakes and a mechanical limited-slip differential, while Premium-specific exterior cues include 19-inch alloy wheels and different spoilers. The Proto Spec starts at $54,015 and gets 19-inch forged alloy wheels with yellow brake calipers as well as leather seats with yellow accents and contrast stitching. It also wears a commemorative plaque to honor the 2020 launch of the Z Proto.
Versus the Competition
The Nissan Z’s biggest rival, the Toyota GR Supra, is priced substantially higher: The base 255-hp four-cylinder 2022 Supra starts at $44,565; shoppers who upgrade to the 382-hp V-6 model will find a starting price of $52,915. The 2022 Supra currently only comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, but an available manual transmission is coming in 2023.
More From Cars.com:
- 2023 Nissan Z Up Close: Paying Respect to Generations Past
- Nissan Z Proto Hews to Heritage While Updating Icon
- What’s in Store for Next-Gen Nissan Z? We Shall ‘Z’ Sept. 15
- Save the Stick Shifts … to Sell Them Later? Future Manual ‘Classic’ Cars
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