Nissan Z (2027)
400-hp twin-turbo thrills and manual rear-drive character, best when sensibly priced.
The Nissan Z (2027) is a modern old-school sports coupe for drivers who want genuine rear-drive involvement without exotic-car pricing. Its 400-hp twin-turbo V6 delivers effortless acceleration, while the available six-speed manual and distinctive retro styling preserve the character Nissan promises. Real-world feedback supports its appeal as a comfortable, entertaining road car, though experts and owners also report soft chassis responses, road noise, limited visibility, and a cramped 195.4-liter cargo area. The NISMO improves track readiness but sacrifices ride comfort, making the Performance trim the smarter value for most buyers. Discounts strengthen the case, while full pricing exposes the aging platform. Overall appeal depends on balancing character, practicality, and cost.
Find Yours
What kind of driving experience are you looking for?
Answer to find your best matches.
The Field
Browse top contenders, or compare all options ranked by score and key attributes.
5 Options
The Scoreboard
Does this improve your life? Considers, health, habits, and environmental impact.
Benefits
The turbo V6 makes merging and passing feel quick without demanding constant effort.
Manual and automatic options let drivers match the car’s involvement to everyday needs.
Supportive seats and a polished, driver-focused cabin make longer drives easier to settle into.
Retro-inspired styling makes the Z feel special and gives owners an easy conversation starter.
Trade-Offs
Wind and tire noise get intrusive on longer freeway drives, making conversation and music harder.
The snug cabin and shallow cargo area make bags, groceries, and regular two-person trips awkward.
The firm, bouncy ride can feel tiring over rough streets, especially during routine commuting.
Backing out can be frustrating because rear visibility is limited and the camera display is dim.
Alternatives
Join the Circle
Where real meets deal
Know what's worth buying-and when.
Tips, special offers, and rewards for buying and sharing.
Publications
2 LEADING PUBLICATION REVIEWS
Car and Driver is clearly positive on the 2027 Nissan Z, while acknowledging meaningful compromises. Its retro styling, 400-hp twin-turbo V-6, rear-wheel-drive layout, and newly available manual transmission make it an appealingly affordable sports coupe, especially in the well-equipped Z Performance trim. The NISMO is particularly impressive on track, where its wider tires, stronger brakes, sharper suspension, and manual gearbox turn it into a serious lap-time machine. Still, the standard Z’s suspension falls short when pushed hard, and the NISMO’s stiff ride and grabby brakes undermine its daily-driver appeal. The cabin is snug, cargo space is merely adequate, and rivals such as the Supra and Porsche 718 can be quicker. Overall, the Z remains stylish, engaging, and distinctive, earning a favorable 7.5/10 despite more capable alternatives.
By Austin Parsons
MotorTrend is cautiously optimistic about the 2027 Nissan Z, seeing meaningful progress but not a complete transformation. The Z remains appealing for its 400-hp twin-turbo V6, rear-wheel drive, manual transmission, bold styling, and relatively accessible pricing, while the NISMO finally gains a six-speed manual and more distinctive hardware. Still, the reviewer’s earlier testing exposed dated underpinnings, uninspired handling, and too little separation between the standard Z and NISMO, so expectations remain measured. Revised dampers, sharper aerodynamics, improved steering, and lighter, better-cooled NISMO brakes could address some of those weaknesses, though the review does not yet frame the car as a class leader. The roughly $56,000 Performance trim earns the strongest recommendation for its upgraded brakes, wheels, limited-slip differential, and interior features, making the Z an appealing enthusiast choice rather than an unquestioned best-in-class sports car.
By Billy Rehbock
YouTube
7 LEADING EXPERT & INFLUENCER REVIEWS
The Car Care Nut ReviewsThe Car Care Nut is positive about the Nissan Z, especially as an authentic, enjoyable daily sports car. He admires its distinctive retro styling, impressive underbody build quality, accessible manual transmission, comfortable cabin, and value versus the Toyota GR Supra. However, he considers the Z too soft for serious track driving, citing vague steering, underwhelming brake confidence, and suspension that can struggle with the twin-turbo V6’s power. His biggest concern is the extremely crowded engine bay, which could make repairs and modifications expensive. Overall, he views the Z as a fun, characterful road car rather than a focused track weapon.
carwowMatt Watson is highly enthusiastic about the Nissan Z, especially its punchy turbocharged performance and playful rear-wheel-drive character. In CarWow’s multi-generation comparison, the new Z wins the quarter-mile and feels comfortable, modern, predictable, and entertaining when driven hard. Its 400-hp engine provides strong acceleration once the turbo torque arrives, though it lacks the older cars’ engaging exhaust note and has a less satisfying gearshift. Watson also finds it heavier, softer, and somewhat floaty, making it less sharp than the beloved 240Z and NISMO-tuned 350Z. Overall, he views it as a fast, usable, and fun modern Z, but not the most emotionally special.
The Car Care Nut ReviewsThe Car Care Nut is positive about the Nissan Z, especially as an authentic, enjoyable daily sports car. He admires its distinctive retro styling, impressive underbody build quality, accessible manual transmission, comfortable cabin, and value versus the Toyota GR Supra. However, he considers the Z too soft for serious track driving, citing vague steering, underwhelming brake confidence, and suspension that can struggle with the twin-turbo V6’s power. His biggest concern is the extremely crowded engine bay, which could make repairs and modifications expensive. Overall, he views the Z as a fun, characterful road car rather than a focused track weapon.
carwowMatt Watson is highly enthusiastic about the Nissan Z, especially its punchy turbocharged performance and playful rear-wheel-drive character. In CarWow’s multi-generation comparison, the new Z wins the quarter-mile and feels comfortable, modern, predictable, and entertaining when driven hard. Its 400-hp engine provides strong acceleration once the turbo torque arrives, though it lacks the older cars’ engaging exhaust note and has a less satisfying gearshift. Watson also finds it heavier, softer, and somewhat floaty, making it less sharp than the beloved 240Z and NISMO-tuned 350Z. Overall, he views it as a fast, usable, and fun modern Z, but not the most emotionally special.
The Car Care Nut ReviewsThe Car Care Nut is positive about the Nissan Z, especially as an authentic, enjoyable daily sports car. He admires its distinctive retro styling, impressive underbody build quality, accessible manual transmission, comfortable cabin, and value versus the Toyota GR Supra. However, he considers the Z too soft for serious track driving, citing vague steering, underwhelming brake confidence, and suspension that can struggle with the twin-turbo V6’s power. His biggest concern is the extremely crowded engine bay, which could make repairs and modifications expensive. Overall, he views the Z as a fun, characterful road car rather than a focused track weapon.
carwowMatt Watson is highly enthusiastic about the Nissan Z, especially its punchy turbocharged performance and playful rear-wheel-drive character. In CarWow’s multi-generation comparison, the new Z wins the quarter-mile and feels comfortable, modern, predictable, and entertaining when driven hard. Its 400-hp engine provides strong acceleration once the turbo torque arrives, though it lacks the older cars’ engaging exhaust note and has a less satisfying gearshift. Watson also finds it heavier, softer, and somewhat floaty, making it less sharp than the beloved 240Z and NISMO-tuned 350Z. Overall, he views it as a fast, usable, and fun modern Z, but not the most emotionally special.
The Car Care Nut ReviewsThe Car Care Nut is positive about the Nissan Z, especially as an authentic, enjoyable daily sports car. He admires its distinctive retro styling, impressive underbody build quality, accessible manual transmission, comfortable cabin, and value versus the Toyota GR Supra. However, he considers the Z too soft for serious track driving, citing vague steering, underwhelming brake confidence, and suspension that can struggle with the twin-turbo V6’s power. His biggest concern is the extremely crowded engine bay, which could make repairs and modifications expensive. Overall, he views the Z as a fun, characterful road car rather than a focused track weapon.
carwowMatt Watson is highly enthusiastic about the Nissan Z, especially its punchy turbocharged performance and playful rear-wheel-drive character. In CarWow’s multi-generation comparison, the new Z wins the quarter-mile and feels comfortable, modern, predictable, and entertaining when driven hard. Its 400-hp engine provides strong acceleration once the turbo torque arrives, though it lacks the older cars’ engaging exhaust note and has a less satisfying gearshift. Watson also finds it heavier, softer, and somewhat floaty, making it less sharp than the beloved 240Z and NISMO-tuned 350Z. Overall, he views it as a fast, usable, and fun modern Z, but not the most emotionally special.
Social
1 INFLUENCER REVIEW
Auto ExpressAuto Express is enthusiastic about the Nissan Z, calling it a talented sports car that could revive the two-seat coupe. The review applauds its smooth-sounding twin-turbo V6, beautiful steering, composed ride, versatile nine-speed automatic, and modern, well-built cabin. It earns four stars, with the main uncertainty being which versions will reach the UK and whether the desirable 414bhp Nismo with a six-speed manual will follow. Overall, the tone is warmly positive and confident, though the verdict stops short of calling the Z flawless.
Forum Reviews
CUSTOMER REVIEWS FROM 1 FORUM
Redditors are cautiously positive about the 2027 Nissan Z, but only when pricing stays reasonable. The refreshed styling, manual Nismo, improved fuel-tank design, chassis tweaks, and rare old-school character earn genuine enthusiasm. Owners describe it as powerful, comfortable enough to daily, distinctive, and reasonably reliable, while appreciating its tuning potential and improving discounts. Still, its dated 350Z/370Z-based platform, heavy weight, mediocre interior, restrictive equipment choices, and missing standard LSD remain recurring complaints. At inflated prices—especially near $70,000 or more—the Z is widely judged uncompetitive; discounted or lightly used examples are considered far more compelling.
Many comments
In-Depth Review
Highlights
- •Twin-Turbo AccelerationDelivers effortless passing power.
- •Manual Rear-Wheel DriveDesigned to maximize driver involvement.
- •NISMO Track HardwareDesigned to improve repeated-track performance.
- •Retro-Inspired StylingDesigned to evoke Fairlady heritage.
Considerations
- •Soft Chassis ResponsesCan feel floaty when driven hard.
- •Highway NoiseWind and tire noise intrude.
- •Tight Cargo SpaceThe shallow area limits everyday carrying.
- •Full-Price ValuePricing weakens its competitive appeal.
Nissan’s Z remains a classic enthusiast coupe, pairing the brand’s sports-car heritage with 400-hp twin-turbo V6 performance at a more approachable price than many rivals. Built for weekend drives, spirited road trips, and light track use, it stands apart from increasingly automatic or electrified competitors with six-speed manual availability and rear-wheel drive. The NISMO adds sharper hardware, but the standard car’s livability, styling, and tuning potential may matter more to daily drivers and hands-on enthusiasts. The sections ahead examine its acceleration, chassis balance, braking endurance, ride quality, and the practical limits of a two-seat cabin with just 195.4 liters of cargo space. Review the areas that match your priorities—because this Z brings classic flavor, but not a classic excuse for ignoring compromises.
Manual Rear-Drive Feel
The Z preserves the classic enthusiast recipe unusually well. Six-speed manual availability across the lineup gives drivers direct control, while the alternative nine-speed automatic offers quicker, easier operation and suits commuting or family use. Rear-wheel drive keeps throttle control central to the experience, but equipment varies: the standard Sport can lack a mechanical limited-slip differential, whereas higher trims add more sophisticated hardware. Owners and reviewers value the involvement, even though some find the shifter less satisfying than the car’s concept suggests.
Handling And Suspension
The Z is entertaining on roads, but its chassis is not universally regarded as razor sharp. Double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension provide a credible sports-car foundation, and the car feels predictable and playful in spirited driving. However, testing repeatedly points to soft or floaty responses, vague steering, and limited standard-car composure when pushed hard. NISMO-specific dampers and wider tires improve track capability substantially, yet the standard Z remains better suited to canyon roads than relentless circuit work.
Cabin And Cargo Limits
The Z’s interior feels focused and modern, but practicality is clearly secondary. Two-seat seating gives occupants a dedicated sports-car environment, complemented by an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 12.3-inch digital cluster. The trade-off is a shallow 195.4-liter cargo area, tight cabin dimensions, limited rear visibility, and occasional frustration with cupholders and the dim reverse-camera display. It works well for weekend bags and short errands, but not as a flexible everyday transporter.
Braking And Track Hardware
Braking hardware helps separate the trims more meaningfully than their shared engine output. 355.6-millimeter front and 350.5-millimeter rear rotors support confident stopping in the listed configuration, while the NISMO adds 15-inch front rotors, special pad material, larger calipers, and wider forged RAYS wheels. Expert testing finds the NISMO much more capable during repeated track use, though its grabby brakes can be awkward on the street. The base car’s brake confidence remains a recurring criticism when driving aggressively.
Twin-Turbo V6 Power
The Z delivers genuinely strong acceleration without feeling like a dedicated drag car. Its 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 produces 400 hp and 350 lb-ft in standard trims, with the NISMO raising output to 420 hp and 384 lb-ft. Turbo torque makes passing and launches effortless, though reviewers note a sudden low-speed hit and an engine note less memorable than older Zs. The result is a fast, tunable coupe whose straight-line ability is more convincing than its emotional soundtrack.
Daily Driving Comfort
The Z can function as a daily sports car, provided you accept its compromises. Supportive heated sport seats and a polished digital cockpit make highway trips and routine driving easier than the coupe’s aggressive appearance implies. The automatic is especially convenient, while the manual adds involvement for enthusiasts. However, wind and tire noise become intrusive at speed, and the firm, sometimes bouncy ride can tire commuters. Feedback supports Nissan’s usability claim, but only with realistic expectations about refinement.
Conclusion
The Z makes its case with 400-hp twin-turbo V6 acceleration, then backs it up with the rare combination of a six-speed manual and rear-wheel drive. Expert and owner impressions agree it is entertaining and predictable on the road, though the soft suspension, vague steering, and merely adequate standard braking limit serious track work; NISMO hardware improves endurance at the cost of ride comfort. Supportive seats and modern tech make it usable day to day, but highway noise, tight visibility, and 195.4-liter cargo space keep practicality firmly secondary. This is a strong fit for enthusiasts who value character, tuning potential, and weekend usability more than razor-edged handling or refinement. Its retro-inspired styling adds lasting appeal, while the aging platform and full-price compromises explain why the recommendation feels favorable rather than unquestioned: compelling when sensibly priced, less convincing as a premium all-purpose sports car.
Feature Scores
This reflects reviews and ratings from established critics, journalists, and users who have evaluated the item. Their opinions provide a comprehensive assessment.
Performance
Acceleration
4/5
Handling Agility
4/5
Braking Performance
4/5
Ride Quality
4/5
Powertrain Refinement
3/5
Long-Term Reliability
3/5
Cargo Utility
2/5
Value
Performance Value
4/5
Ownership Cost
3/5
Resale Retention
3/5
Design
Exterior Styling
5/5
Interior Ambiance
4/5
Seating Support
4/5
Cabin Ergonomics
3/5
Health
Cabin Air Quality
TBD
Noise Exposure
2/5
Safety
Crash Protection
3/5
Driver Assistance
4/5
High-Speed Control
4/5
Visibility
2/5
Sustainability
Fuel Efficiency
2/5
Emissions Performance
TBD
Material Efficiency
TBD
End-of-Life Recyclability
TBD
Experience Style
Driving Engagement
5/5
Everyday Usability
3/5
Customization Flexibility
4/5
Specifications
This section outlines the product's key facts, covering essential features, details, dimensions, materials, and any unique characteristics that define its functionality and usability.
Performance
Value
Design
Safety
Experience Style
Frequently Asked Questions
2 Questions
Find Yours
What kind of driving experience are you looking for?
Answer to find your best matches.
