- The 2027 Z Nismo gets a manual gearbox and front brake rotors derived from the GT-R.
- The Z Sport and Performance trims have a redesigned front fascia.
- Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic is now available, but only with a black roof.
When Nissan dropped a bombshell on the Japanese Fairlady Z earlier in the year, we knew it was only a matter of time before its American counterpart embraced the changes. The 2027 model has now arrived in the United States, bringing extensive updates. As seen on the JDM model, the non-Nismo version gets a facelift with a new front bumper and a split retro grille design that harkens back to the Datsun era.
Additionally, the Z Sport and Performance receive a Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic paint option, which appears to be the same as the Unryu Green we saw on the Japanese model in January. Inspired by the exterior finish of the 1970s Z-generation S30, the newly added color is offered exclusively with a contrasting black roof. Elsewhere, astute readers will also notice that the front Nissan badge has gone, replaced by a Z logo.
We’re told the fresh face isn’t just for style, as Nissan claims there are cooling and aerodynamic benefits after overhauling the bumper and grille. The midrange Z Performance gets further changes for 2027, including redesigned 19-inch black forged wheels, a tan interior and an upgraded 15-watt cooled charger. This trim level also now features larger diameter monotube shock absorbers for greater comfort and better handling.
2027 Nissan Z Nismo with six-speed manual gearbox
Photo by: Nissan
Upgrading to the Nismo finally brings a manual transmission for those who want to row the gears themselves. A third pedal is paired with further tuning for the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine to improve throttle response. The Active Sound Enhancement and Active Noise Cancellation systems remain but have been modified to deliver a more aggressive tone when switched to Sport mode.
Nissan also adapted the GT-R’s front brake rotors for the flagship Z to provide superior stopping power, along with a slight weight reduction of 19 pounds. Engineers optimized the front suspension following the weight reduction and modified the steering rack to reduce internal friction by 20 percent. Inside, there’s a new gear lever for the six-speed manual, along with the aforementioned wireless charging pad.
Regardless of the Z variant you choose, all models feature an updated fuel tank that ensures a steady fuel supply to the pump during hard cornering.
Nissan will show off the 2027 Z next week at the New York Auto Show before bringing the new sports car to dealers this summer. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but the outgoing base model starts at $44,000, rising to over $67,000 for the high-end version.
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Source: Nissan
Motorcycle Pickup1: (Relatively) Affordable sports cars are becoming increasingly rare, so it’s good to see Nissan not only keeping the Z alive but improving it for 2027. Even though the company is experiencing financial difficulties, it remains committed to the halo performance model despite its appeal.
With the Toyota Supra and BMW Z4 going out of production this year, 2026 could be the year of Z, especially with the three-pedal Nismo coming soon.
