Nissan 370Z (Z34) 2008-

[netburner]

The all new Nissan 370Z (official pics from Nissan press server)

[LeonOfTheDead]

me think it's ugly.

I could barely live with some parts here and there of the whole car, but it isn't working. the 350Z is surely better looking in the wild than in pics, but this is factory-ready for ricers' applications.

[baddabang]

Those seats are wild. Just be happy they didn't give it a GTR front.

[RacingManiac]

The lights and the "fangs" on the grille looks odd. But the lines looks good, kinda in the same way the Z4 Coupe does. It also looks smaller....

[Dino Scuderia]

I read where they're wanting to go after Porsche....now I can see they have brought the 350Z design closer to a 997.

[LeonOfTheDead]

I read where they're wanting to go after Porsche....now I can see they have brought the 350Z design closer to a 997.

my first thought was Cayman, but it's almost the same :p

[ruim20]

Crap. i hate this thing, bring the 350 back! please! The front is awfull, the side window as a horrid design, what a shame.

[Auxin]

I'll stick my head out and say I think it looks way better than the 350. My main problem with that car is that I've always thought that it's too simple and unadventurous looking. A vast improvement with some really nice lines (especially the shape of the windows and the way they merge into the boot) in my opinion.

[scottie300z]

The worse part imo is the round rear. It's just too round. I could live w/ everything else I guess. The roofline has an even sharper slope due to the strong angle at the front, that's the most influence the gt-r has had it seems.

I hope it weighs less, then I'd consider it more.

[teatako]

roofline , door and side windows and overall proportions are pretty damn good-pure Z. (except for that horrid cut they did to the roof to follow that door line all the way to the top of the rear window)

the bubble butt and the huge wheel arches look old now, as do the weird-ass lights, which are just awkward and guaranteed not to age in a dignified way.

the tuner-approved fascias are in my view horrid but an average 370 buyer will probably love them, as they´re designed for the owner who wants the tuned look but won´t "tune" the car himself.

Me, I would have preferred a retro styling over this. At least the old 240 had nice proportions and tasteful detailing. besides, everyone and their mama´s doing it and nissan was the original retro car trend setter with the Figaro.

[gtrjazz]

I think it looks good, but could do with a rear wing and some graphics

[Ferrer]

If they keep the price similar to 350Z levels than it'll be good.

[Dino Scuderia]

I think Nissan have had problems advancing some of their recent designs...and I knew the 350 would be difficult being one of the most industrial of their line.

[NSXType-R]

The headlights are really weird I think. The rear end is nice though.

[The_Canuck]

Better than the 350 by far. I don't know what it was but the old 350z taillights were ugly, these are....interesting.

[Auxin]

Better than the 350 by far. I don't know what it was but the old 350z taillights were ugly, these are....interesting.

True, very very true.

[fisetdavid26]

I dig it.

[Rockefella]

Tame those head/taillights a bit and it'd be better, but not bad at all.

[Dino Scuderia]

The look of the lights is highly dependent on the angle at which they are viewed...some angles they really work well and others just tolerable.

[AERO_HDT]

Much more aggressive than the staid-looking 350, I'm wondering what sort of engine they'll throw under the bonnet. Granted the Skyline 370GT engine (330brake?), but I'm wondering if they'll tweak it to 350bhp +

Dunno where some of you guys got the "Porsche" look from...

[digitalcraft]

I'm torn. I like some things and I don't. I like that it is reminiscent of the older Z cars in the body lines. The headlights aren't my favorite though. Compared to other cars in the world, its just alright, but for a current Nissan, I think its pretty good. ;)

[gtrjazz]

Looks like a V8 version is going to be made too

[NicFromLA]

Nice to see Nissan is getting rid of the understated elegance and subtle muscularity of the current Z for a much swoopier, softer look.

[092326001]

the front end looks mangles and the rear's too swoopy for my liking
i do like it though
it feels like they're trying a bit too hard to copy the original Datsun 240Z in some parts

[jump15vc]

the lines look much better and the rear does as well, i like how the decklid flows better with the little duck tail spoiler, i don't like the front lights but the tail lights are good.
overall i like it, if its really lighter like nissan has said it will be it will be really fast with around 350bhp. I don't like the idea of a V8 Z and hope they don't do that

[f6fhellcat13]

Dunno where some of you guys got the "Porsche" look from...

rear fenders

[Niko_Fx]

I love the steering wheel, such an improvement over the 350Z (the whole interior for that matter). I hope the prices on 350Zs drop, maybe Niko could get one :D

[clutch-monkey]

several improvements in looks over the 350, especially the awkward lines that car had on the rear quarter.....
bet it's still heavy though. need to spice up the engine!

[Zytek_Fan]

Am I only the only who likes it?

[clutch-monkey]

no, i think it's a vast improvement on the 350



okay, so i still don't like it...but credit where it's due

[fisetdavid26]

Am I only the only who likes it?
Negative.

I dig it.

[fpv_gtho]

It also looks smaller....

Its apparently shorter and wider than the 350Z. I'm not sure if that'll eventuate to it being lighter though.

[Zytek_Fan]

Any info on what engine it's using?
I'd love to see a biturbo V6 in it :)

The 370Z is powered by the VQ37VHR 3.7 L (230 cu in) V6 that is in the current Infiniti G37.

While no size specifications have been released yet, after having been given access to the vehicle, Motor Trend has been able to come to conclusions regarding the 370Z's size. They suggest that it is shorter than the 350Z, and that "most of length is lost between the wheels, specifically aft of the B-pillar." They were also able to determine that the 370Z is also wider than the 350Z

[clutch-monkey]

Its apparently shorter and wider than the 350Z. I'm not sure if that'll eventuate to it being lighter though.
well if it stays roughly the same wieght it would be reasonable to assume that that should equal better handling right?

[CdocZ]

I don't get all this talk about how oh so heavy the 350Z is....I mean, it sure as hell is not light, but if it drives anything like the G35 series, it certainly doesn't feel like a pig or anything.

[fpv_gtho]

well if it stays roughly the same wieght it would be reasonable to assume that that should equal better handling right?

Depends really. Shorter and wider should make it more agile, whilst longer wheelbase would make it more stable.

[Ferrer]

I'd love to see a biturbo V6 in it :)
That's the GT-R.

[markpaul]

its ugly

[cmcpokey]

i love the side window lines... perfect replication of the 240, and thats not a bad thing. it does a much better job of recalling the 240 from all angles than the 350 could do. the back end is a bit iffy to me, front end is good, but not spectacular, but the side view is great.

with the 3.7 engine, it shoudl be a riot though. the 3.5 is impressive enough. if they could beef up their V8 and stuff it in there, could be a real player in the premium sports car market.

[Quiggs]

Long headlights are looooooooong.

[Zytek_Fan]

i love the side window lines... perfect replication of the 240, and thats not a bad thing. it does a much better job of recalling the 240 from all angles than the 350 could do. the back end is a bit iffy to me, front end is good, but not spectacular, but the side view is great.

with the 3.7 engine, it shoudl be a riot though. the 3.5 is impressive enough. if they could beef up their V8 and stuff it in there, could be a real player in the premium sports car market.

Their V8 should fit. It's quite compact. :)

[Lets Gekiga In]

If I were looking for a new car, I'd highly consider this car.

[Kitdy]

Which V8 would they use? And do oyu think they'd tread on GT-R territory with a 370Z?

I don't.

[Duell]

its ugly
:) yep, it's ugly

Long headlights are looooooooong.
True.

I have always had my doubts about the 350Z styling. It never really got me excited. (and I want to be excited, when buying a sports car)
But when I compare the 350Z with the 370Z...................... man..... I don't know were to start.

This car is just a big design flop. (is that english?)
It has (design) lines everywhere. Going nowhere. :(
It has got me puzzled. But maybe I will changes my mind when I see it in RL. :confused:

[Ferrer]

Which V8 would they use? And do oyu think they'd tread on GT-R territory with a 370Z?

I don't.
I very much doubt this car will receive any kind of V8.

[Kitdy]

This car is just a big design flop. (is that english?)/QUOTE]

It is.

[QUOTE=Ferrer;845691]I very much doubt this car will receive any kind of V8.

Yeah and I agree - it just doesn't seem like something they'd do. They want to have the GT-R as the more upmarket option I believe and a V8 370Z wouldn't even be a 370 anymore, it'd be a 450Z or something.

[cmcpokey]

Which V8 would they use? And do oyu think they'd tread on GT-R territory with a 370Z?

I don't.

i dont think they will drop a V8 in it. but even if they did, i dont think it would tread on the GT-R's toes. they are very different animals. the GT-R is a very smooth, polished, precision handling scalpel. the Z is a blunt instrument, rwd and squirrely. put a V8 in it and it would go nicely against the base corvette, whereas the GT-R aims a bit higher.

[Kitdy]

i dont think they will drop a V8 in it. but even if they did, i dont think it would tread on the GT-R's toes. they are very different animals. the GT-R is a very smooth, polished, precision handling scalpel. the Z is a blunt instrument, rwd and squirrely. put a V8 in it and it would go nicely against the base corvette, whereas the GT-R aims a bit higher.

I agree, a V8 370 would be downmarket and different from the GT-R, that is one reason why I don't think they'd do that. I just feel they won't not exactly sure why, maybe the economy, not being perceived as competitive with say Corvette, added cost to add the engine, and so on.

Why don't you think they will do it?

[clutch-monkey]

does nissan even have a V8 suitable for the application? they have plenty of V6's that suit - as much as i dislike that engine layout - and everytime i wish they'd use an I6 i remind myself they switched to a V6 in the 80's haha

[IBrake4Rainbows]

I like it in the sense I wouldn't feel bad about abusing it's nuts off and dumping it somewhere to be stripped by Disturbing men in hoodies.

But i wouldn't spend my money on one.

[Ferrer]

does nissan even have a V8 suitable for the application? they have plenty of V6's that suit - as much as i dislike that engine layout - and everytime i wish they'd use an I6 i remind myself they switched to a V6 in the 80's haha
They did use a straight six in the Skyline until (relatively) recently, though.

[Bleeding Heart]

does nissan even have a V8 suitable for the application? they have plenty of V6's that suit - as much as i dislike that engine layout - and everytime i wish they'd use an I6 i remind myself they switched to a V6 in the 80's haha

Well.... If you'll consider the huge 5.6L V-8 engine from the Nissan Titan as a suitable for a car... well, the answer is yes, Nissan does have V-8 engines...

But then...

Correct me if i'm wrong...

but from what it looks like, Nissan never designed a V-8 for a car of this class...

[clutch-monkey]

They did use a straight six in the Skyline until (relatively) recently, though.
yeah, but the 300zx (which i believe is sort of what the 350 replaced?) has always had a V6, so i guess the I6 is gone from nissan forever what with the R35 using a V6 as well now

[fpv_gtho]

They want to have the GT-R as the more upmarket option I believe and a V8 370Z wouldn't even be a 370 anymore, it'd be a 450Z or something.

Theres going to come a time though when either they'll need a bigger engine for more power, or they'll revert to twin turbo. If they steer clear of turbo's, they wont be able to keep a 6 cylinder for long. Look at the pattern, 2.4L, 2.6L, 2.8L, 3.5L and now 3.7L. They wont be able to push a V6 past 4L too effectively.

[Bleeding Heart]

yeah, but the 300zx (which i believe is sort of what the 350 replaced?) has always had a V6, so i guess the I6 is gone from nissan forever what with the R35 using a V6 as well now

I don't know....

Saying goodbye to the I6 may be inappropriate...

If they would design a car in which using a V6 may be inappropriate...

We could still see the I6 make a come-back...

[clutch-monkey]

but if they share engines with renault an I6 makes less economic sense doesn't it?

[wwgkd]

I like it in the sense I wouldn't feel bad about abusing it's nuts off and dumping it somewhere to be stripped by Disturbing men in hoodies.

But i wouldn't spend my money on one.

That's a good way of putting it.

[cmcpokey]

does nissan even have a V8 suitable for the application? they have plenty of V6's that suit - as much as i dislike that engine layout - and everytime i wish they'd use an I6 i remind myself they switched to a V6 in the 80's haha

Well.... If you'll consider the huge 5.6L V-8 engine from the Nissan Titan as a suitable for a car... well, the answer is yes, Nissan does have V-8 engines...

But then...

Correct me if i'm wrong...

but from what it looks like, Nissan never designed a V-8 for a car of this class...

yeah, they have lots of V6s, the VQ being the nest for this application. they do have V8's though. the VK45DE is the one in the M45 and the old Q45 and in its current for produces 330 hp, 340 in the Q45, but i am sure could be remapped and tweaked to over 260. there is also the heavier, but beefier VK50VE from the FX50 with 390 hp in current trim. again, could get over 400 with some different mapping. the FM platform was designed to have a V8, the M and the EX are all on the same platform as the Z and the G (and apparently some of the GT-R.

i can't really say why i dont think they woudl do it, i just dont get that vibe. maybe a very limited production, homologation special like the longtail they put out a few years ago. it woudl be cool, but likely won't happen.

[Ferrer]

but if they share engines with renault an I6 makes less economic sense doesn't it?
Well a V6 is easier to fit tranversally so I guess yes.

[CamNismo]

I dislike this car with a passion, and I sometimes hate to admit I'm a Nissan Fan...The lines of the car a bad, and the Headlight/Tail Lights that Nissan is going with on a couple of their models are horrible looking, and hopefully it stops soon.

[Niko_Fx]

I'm not sure if anybody posted this link yet, but here it goes:

Fresh New Pics - 370Z (http://www.speedandmotion.com/pictures/370Zpreview/index.html)

[Niko_Fx]

I'm still not sure about the headlights, but look at the red Z on the right of the second picture that I attached. The shape looks fantastic and smaller than its previous gen. Click on the link for interior pictures, pretty good improvement.

[LeonOfTheDead]

I'm not sure if anybody posted this link yet, but here it goes:

Fresh New Pics - 370Z (http://www.speedandmotion.com/pictures/370Zpreview/index.html)

some more here: Autoblog (http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2009-nissan-370z-early-reveal/)

[Sledgehammer]

The iconic 2009 Nissan 370Z, the first full redesign of the Nissan Z since its reintroduction as a 2003 model, is scheduled to go on sale in North America in January 2009.

Nearly every piece and component of the current Nissan 350Z has been rethought or redesigned resulting in a more refined, more powerful, better handling 370Z – a shorter wheelbase, greater use of lightweight body materials, larger 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL), a new 7-speed automatic transmission, a world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching system for the 6-speed manual transmission, a new high quality interior design and new available technology features.

The 2009 370Z has a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $29,990, providing passionate performance at an excellent value. At this price the new 370Z is about $280 less than a comparably priced 2008 350Z Enthusiast model – yet it offers more standard equipment, such as Nissan Intelligent Key, side and curtain supplemental air bags and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC). The new Zâ is available in two models: 370Z and 370Z Touring.

ALL-NEW 2009 NISSAN 370Z: SCULPTED, ENGINEERED AND EQUIPPED
TO SHIFT_DRIVING EXCITEMENT

– Super Evolution of the Iconic Nissan Z Expands the Sports Car “Sweet Spot” With An Unmatched Balance of Performance, Style and Value –

In the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z since its re-introduction as a 2003 model, nearly every piece and component has been rethought or redesigned – shorter wheelbase, greater use of lightweight body materials, new engine with more horsepower and improved fuel economy, a new 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, a world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching system for the manual transmission, new high quality driver-centric interior and new available technology features.

But to get the full measure of the new model, now designated the Nissan 370Z, one need look no farther than the subtle upswept line of the new rear quarter window. Quintessentially Z, the window harkens back to the original 1970 240Z – a car that revolutionized the sports car world with its unique combination of performance, style and, especially, value. The new 370Z solidifies the Z’s position as one of the most desirable sports cars on the planet – at an affordable price – bringing true sports car performance to everyone.

“The fresh character of the 2009 Nissan 370Z is immediately apparent in the crisp new exterior design, which is sportier yet still immensely identifiable as a Nissan Z,” said Al Castignetti, vice president, Sales, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “One usually thinks of evolution as being linear. The new 370Z’s ‘super evolution’ builds on the best features of both the first and last generations Z–cars – respectful but not retro, simple yet sophisticated, and 110 percent pure Z.”

Solidifying the strengths of its immediate predecessor, the new 370Z was conceived as an “Everyday Sports Car,” targeting segment-leading performance and a base MSRP of around $30,000 (final performance figures and pricing to be available at a later date).

“The new 370Z lives in the sweet spot of performance, style and value, a position that Nissan invented with the original Z. It’s an authentic sports car that you don’t have to make sacrifices to own – or drive everyday,” said Castignetti.

The new 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe model is scheduled to go on sale in North America in January 2009, followed by a new 370Z Roadster for the 2010 model year.

The New Exterior: Not Just Sculptural, Functional

The 2009 370Z’s dynamic new styling offers dual benefits – a more aggressive appearance and a lighter, tighter structure for enhanced performance. The new Z’s wheelbase is nearly four inches shorter than the previous generation Z (100.4 inches versus 104.3 inches), accomplished by moving the rear wheels forward in the 2nd generation FM platform, while overall length is reduced by 2.7 inches (167.1 inches versus 169.8 inches). At the same time, the overall width been increased by 1.3 inches, the rear track by 2.2 inches and overall height reduced by 0.3 inches, giving the 370Z a much more aggressive stance.

The more compact exterior dimensions and expanded use of lightweight materials help reduce weight. For the first time, the Z features aluminum door panels, along with an all-aluminum hood (the previous aluminum hood design utilized steel reinforcements) and an aluminum hatch.

At the same time, the body structure was extensively revised, improving front body torsion rigidity by 30 percent; a new front suspension cradle to reduce front body lateral bending; new rear structural reinforcements; and an underbody “V-bar” to help reduce rear lateral bending. Other enhancements include the use of a carbon fiber composite radiator housing and strengthening of the rear fender and hatch areas.

Rear body torsion rigidity is improved by up to 22 percent and rear body vertical bending rigidity is improved by up to 30 percent. The result is enhanced overall solidity and handling capability. Even with all of the new body strengthening measures the overall body-in-white is lighter than the previous body-in-white.

“As every race car driver knows, weight is the enemy of performance and rigidity is the foundation for handling – but they usually work at cross purposes from each other,” said Castignetti. “With the new 370Z, the engineers were able to build a body that is both stronger and lighter, enhancing Z’s athletic performance abilities.”

Along with its new structure and stance, the 370Z has a taut new skin – one that looks completely new, yet completely Z. The exterior design incorporates intentional 240Z styling cues, a sleek aerodynamic shape, a “dynamic motion” feel with a dramatic cantilevered roof (with Nissan GT-R styling cues) and a “low visual gravity.”

The coefficient of drag is 0.30 (0.29 with the Sport Package), the same as the previous generation 350Z Coupe. The new Z also maintains the previous generation’s zero front lift and zero rear lift when equipped with the rear spoiler, thanks to extensive aerodynamics efforts – including an “inverse area” front bumper design which smoothes the flow of air to the sides of the vehicle, while the rear design maximizes the control of air flow from the roof to the rear hatch. In addition, the front overhang was extended 1.2 inches and more than 200 rear quarter panel patterns were made and wind tunnel tested to counter the negative aerodynamic effects of shortening the wheelbase (versus the 350Z).

“The 370Z incorporates all of the signature Z elements – the long nose, canopy cockpit, muscular fenders, vertical door handles,” said Castignetti. “What’s new is a more wheel-oriented, organic design with more of a sense of precision and agility.”

One of the most distinctive features of the bold new exterior design is the headlight/taillight treatment, which features a fierce “boomerang” shape. High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with auto on/off feature are standard.

The hood’s deep character lines continue over the windshield into the new, cantilevered roof design. The intense broad-shouldered rear shape is highlighted by the integration of the boomerang taillights and wide, flared rear fenders.

The 370Z’s sleek silhouette is defined by its upswept quarter window design that is echoed by the dynamic upward curvature in the lower rocker panel and the sense of the taut sheet metal molding itself around the wheels and frame. Attention to detail and functionality is evident throughout the exterior design, including the addition of a flashing (repeater lamp) side marker lamp/emblem.

Performance body pieces are available as part of the optional Sport Package, including a front chin spoiler and rear spoiler. The 370Z is offered in seven exterior colors: Pearl White, Monterey Blue, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Black, Solid Red, Platinum Graphite and a launch-year only, premium signature color, Chicane Yellow

Nissan 370Z #3

[Sledgehammer]

A Driver’s Cockpit Equipped To Make Car and Driver Feel Like One

The interior design of the new 370Z continues the Z tradition of enhancing driving pleasure, no matter what the road or traffic conditions offer. “As an Everyday Sports Car, every aspect of the interior needs to address two needs – support and enhanced driver performance during spirited driving and offer high levels of comfort and utility for normal commuting and around-town activities,” said Castignetti.

The traditional 2-seat layout is built around a deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length center console separating the driver and passenger’s seat. In the rear is an open cargo area with enhanced storage and accessibility. The design focus incorporates a “layer concept,” with an information layer, an operation layer and a holding layer.

The information layer provides enhanced visibility with easy access to all key data. The gauges are once again attached to the steering column, so the driver doesn’t have to choose between the perfect steering wheel position and visibility of the gauges. The upper steering wheel opening in front of the gauges was also enlarged to provide a better view of the readouts.

Gauge size has been increased over the previous generation design, including a 15 percent increase in the tachometer, and the gauge angle has been adjusted.

The instrument panel retains the traditional 3-pod cluster with oil temperature, voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer now include an “initial sweep” function, coming alive when the ZÒ is first started.

The operation layer includes the steering wheel, shifter and switchgear. The steering wheel is an all-new “oval” 3-spoke design, which offers baseball-style stitching, improved thumb grips and palm rest areas for improved feel on long drives. The surface of the leather-wrapped wheel is “shaved” to provide a more kidney-like shape to better fit in the hand. The shifter was also redesigned, with the manual transmission shifter padded in different areas to improve the accuracy of diagonal shifts and to feel softer in the hand for forward and backward motions.

The holding layer includes the seats, knee pads and door trim support. The driver’s seat is uniquely different from the passenger’s seat, with lower seat cushion cut-outs on the sides where the thighs rest – allowing the driver to push on the pedals without the seat fighting them. The seat also features an improved frame that helps it to better hold the driver in place during cornering. It also offers a 0.4-inch lower hip point than the previous Z driver’s seat.

Both the driver and passenger’s seats are structured with an anti-slip material in the main seating surface. The sporty woven cloth seats feature standard 8-way driver’s/4-way passenger manual adjustments, with heated 4-way power-adjustable leather-appointed seats standard with the 370Z Touring model. Adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints are also standard.

The door armrests have been designed to provide extra support when cornering and the kneepads are better integrated to help the driver maintain the proper position while cornering.

In addition, the available aluminum pedal pads utilize a new rubber insert material to improve grip and the accelerator pedal and brake pedal are completely new. The accelerator pedal is now floor-mounted (versus hanging) to provide better contact with the foot, less effort to operate and easier pedal-to-pedal foot/heel movement. The brake pedal is a new variable ratio design with enhanced rigidity and easier operation.

Interior packaging is also enhanced from the previous generation, including the removal of the rear strut brace (replaced with less intrusive structural reinforcements) and by adding a new “shelf” area behind the seats, creating an ideal area for storing briefcases. A retractable cover is standard on the 370Z Touring model. A locking glove compartment has been added.

Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent KeyÔ with Push Button Start, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto-lock feature, a center console box with a new non-intrusive cover design, automatic climate control, rear window defroster with timer, two 12-volt power outlets, four cupholders (two in door panels, two in center console), dual overhead map lights and a AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system with illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls.

The 370Z Touring model adds standard 4-way power adjustable heated synthetic suede and leather-appointed sport seats with adjustable lumbar support, 6CD Bose audio system with eight speakers (includes dual subwoofer) and MP3/WMA playback, XM(r) Satellite Radio (XM(r) subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth(r) Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink Universal Transceiver and passenger seat map pocket.

An optional Navigation Package includes the touch-screen Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with XM NavTraffic(r) with Real-Time Traffic information (XM(r) subscription required, sold separately), 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and Interface System for iPod(r).

The 370Z interior is available Black cloth or for 370Z Touring models, a choice of Gray, Black or Persimmon leather-appointed seating.

“Of all the tremendous enhancements to the new Z(r) interior, one that is easy to overlook is the enhanced quality – both in fit and finish and in the quality of materials and designs,” said Castignetti. “Z(r) is proving once again that outstanding performance is available at an affordable price and so is outstanding quality.”

Nissan 370Z #4

[Sledgehammer]

Taking Performance To A New Level

Since so many aspects of a sports car’s performance come down to the simple formulation of power-to-weight, the engineering teams behind the development of the new 370Z made that their priority focus. On the weight reduction side of the equation, they put the new Z(r) on an extremely restrictive diet. Beyond just the pounds shed with the body-in-white, every component throughout the vehicle was scrutinized. For example, fuel tank weight was reduced by 13.9 pounds, the exhaust system by 3.8 pounds, the audio system by 3.5 pounds and the 19-inch wheels by approximately seven pounds each for the fronts and six pounds for the rears – an estimated 225 pounds total.

Along with the reduced weight, the center of gravity was lowered through use of a lower engine positioning (-0.6 inches) and lower driver hip point (-0.4 inches). Rotating mass was reduced with a shorter carbon-fiber composite driveshaft. All of these weight savings were needed, of course, to counter the added weight of the Z(r)’s enhanced body structure and new technology and safety features. The net weight reduction is 95 pounds for the 2009 Nissan 370Z over the comparable 350Z Enthusiast model.

On the power side of the targeted class-leading power-to-weight goal, the new Z(r) picks up 26 horsepower utilizing the fourth generation of Nissan’s award-winning VQ-series V6. The new 3.7-liter VQ37VHR engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) is rated at 332 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm, compared with the previous 3.5-liter V6’s 306 horsepower @ 6,800 rpm and 268 lb-ft of toque @ 4,800 rpm.

Along with its larger displacement, the new engine gives better power delivery all the way to the 7,500 rpm redline, improved low-end power and more high-end torque, creating an entirely new driving experience. Approximately 35 percent of the engine’s parts are new, versus the previous design.

Key to the enhanced performance is the VVEL system, which is able to optimize intake valve open/close movements, allowing the needed air to be sent promptly to the combustion chamber at the precisely optimized time.

Since the VVEL system can adjust to open the valves slightly, it improves fuel efficiency by reducing camshaft friction and fuel waste. It also provides cleaner emissions by allowing for quicker warm-up of the catalyst and by stabilizing combustion when the engine is cool. The engine also has a new “growl” from the dual exhaust system due to reduced back pressure, enhancing driving enjoyment.

The new engine is backed by a choice of two new advanced transmissions, both designed to improve driver performance. The new close-ratio 6-speed manual includes an available world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching system, which allows drivers of any skill level to experience professional-like gear shift performance. The “SynchroRev Match” function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially “blipping” the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves vehicle balance and smoothness by reducing the typical “shock” when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer less vehicle intervention. The SynchroRev Match system is offered as part of the optional Sport Package.

“The SynchroRev Match system takes nothing away from the driver – you still have to engage the clutch and move the shifter – it just gives you a performance edge by smoothing out the gear engagement,” said Castignetti.

Overall shift feeling has also been improved, with reduced vibration and noise (accomplished through improved lubrication) and a modification to the lever angle of the short-throw shifter.

The 370Z’s new 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in manual mode with a target time of 0.5 seconds between shifts. Drivers can use the standard paddle shifters or the shift lever. With new torque converter lock-up logic, the new 7-speed automatic feels more direct, like a manual transmission. The new 7-speed’s wide gear ratios offer improved fuel efficiency, while the Adaptive Shift Control is designed to adjust to the driver’s driving style.

“The combination of the new 3.7-liter engine and advanced new transmissions puts the Z(r) solidly at the front of the class in terms of responsive acceleration,” said Castignetti. “Add in the enhanced handling from the revised suspension – which provides better grip, reduced understeer, improved road holding, reduced impact harshness and better ride – and you’ve got a new standard for thrilling performance.”

Estimated fuel economy is 18 mpg City/26mpg Highway for both the 7-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions – increases of 1 mpg City/2 mpg Highway for the automatic and 1 mpg Highway for the manual transmission versus the 2008 350Z.

The previous generation Z(r)’s suspension has also been rethought to reduce weight, improve strength and improve camber change and lateral displacement. The double-wishbone front suspension (replacing the lower multi-link setup in the 350Z) uses lighter forged aluminum arms and a lightweight rigid aluminum-alloy cradle, along with a lighter stabilizer bar with a 35 percent improved lever ratio.

The 4-link rear suspension is also now stiffer and lighter, with the rear cradle entirely integrated into a single part (no welding). All-new “high response” shock absorbers are utilized on each corner, with ride comfort improved through reduced shock friction.

The standard 370Z wheel and tire package features 18x8.0-inch front/18x9.0-inch 5-spoke lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/50R18 front/P245/45R18 rear Yokohama ADVAN

Sport maximum performance summer tires.

Also available as part of the optional Sport Package are 19-inch RAYS forged lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A P245/40R19 front/P275/35R19 tires.

The Z(r)’s already advanced braking system has been upgraded to include improved overall brake feel, better fade resistance and improved NVH. With adoption of the new variable ratio brake pedal, pedal stroke feel is more direct. The standard 4-wheel vented disc brake system includes Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The optional Sport Package includes Nissan Sport Brakes with large diameter 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear rotors (versus 12.6-inch front/12.1-inch rear standard rotors) with 4-piston front and 2-piston rear aluminum calipers.

Steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion deign that has been reworked (including redesigned mounting bushings and a column insulator) to provide improved response. Unwanted steering kickback and vibrations are reduced with the addition of a solenoid valve that acts like a damper when there is a harsh impact load. The standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system has also been revised with new electronic hardware and all-new logic.

The Nissan 370Z’s long list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted side-impact air bags; seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, Active Head Restraints, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Vehicle Security System and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

A Simplified Model Line-up

The new 2009 370Z’s model line-up has been greatly simplified, versus the 2008 350Z, with just two models – 370Z and the 370Z Touring.

The 370Z Touring adds heated leather-appointed power seats, HomeLink(r) Universal Transceiver, Bluetooth(r) Hands-free Phone System, 8-speaker Bose(r) audio system, XM(r) Satellite Radio (XM(r) subscription, sold separately) cargo cover and aluminum pedals to the long list of standard Z(r) features and equipment.

Two option packages are offered: the Sport Package, with 19-inch RAYS forged wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires, aerodynamic front and rear spoiler, larger Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match (6-speed manual transmission only) and Viscous Limited Slip Differential; and the Navigation Package, with Hard Drive-based Nissan Navigation System, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and Interface System for iPod(r).

“This exciting new Z(r) represents the essence of the Nissan brand, just as the original 240Z did nearly 40 years before,” said Castignetti. “It provides passionate performance at an excellent value – just what was needed then and just what sports car enthusiasts are looking for today.”

Nissan 370Z #5

[Sledgehammer]

specs
Price = $29,900
Engine = 3.7 liter V6
Aspiration = natural
HP = 332 hp
HP/Liter = 89.7 hp per liter

[Ferrer]

Does anyone else think the "world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching system" is an utter marketing bs?

[fisetdavid26]

Does anyone else think the "world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching system" is an utter marketing bs?
Yeah, and how boring of a car owner do you have to be to care about it.

Try explaining that to your friends.

[Ferrer]

Yeah, and how boring of a car owner do you have to be to care about it.

Try explaining that to your friends.
Failing that you could always learn how drive. And double-declutch properly.

What this says to me is: Nissan Z car owners can't drive.

[fisetdavid26]

Failing that you could always learn how drive. And double-declutch properly.

What this says to me is: Nissan Z car owners can't drive.
They can't dress either.

(Obscure reference to Clarkson's Z shirt in a TG Christmas special)

[Niko_Fx]

Thanks for the photos, I quicly went over the press release but couldn't find the car's weight, anybody know?

[werty]

Thanks for the photos, I quicly went over the press release but couldn't find the car's weight, anybody know?

I read a rumor blog about 2 months ago that said it was going to be 200 lbs lighter than the 350z.

I like the car, however there is one thing that bothers me from a design stand point. On the front bumper there is that single opening. It seems like there should be either fogs on each side of that, or perhaps 2 openings....idno, just seems like too much paint in those areas...needs to be breaked up.

[The_Canuck]

I....like it?

[Niko_Fx]

I read a rumor blog about 2 months ago that said it was going to be 200 lbs lighter than the 350z.



200lbs lighter, about 20+hp extra... sounds promising, hopefully your info is accurate.

[The_Canuck]

Its got the same engine as the G37 It has 330hp, it's the same weight. Should be about $30,000

[Klemmel]

I was going to buy a 996 GT3 MkI in silver, but now I'm considering this car. I probably have 10 more years to think about it, so no need to rush things :D
I'll take mine with the GT-R wheels.

[RacingManiac]

Failing that you could always learn how drive. And double-declutch properly.

What this says to me is: Nissan Z car owners can't drive.

So do Ferrari/BMW/Porsche/Audi...whathaveyou owners with any automated manual system...

And I'd say most people who drives manual transmission cars don't double-declutch or heel-toe anyway. Its not a required manuver for driving a manual car, and in normal street driving you aren't driving within a inch of the limit to need to that anyhow. Sure it helps saving the syncros and smooth out the shifts, but try telling that to your average car owners what that means....

anyhow, most reviews thus far seems to think its a pretty clever piece of tech, and that includes people who can indeed do proper heel-toe shifts...

[Ferrer]

So do Ferrari/BMW/Porsche/Audi...whathaveyou owners with any automated manual system...
Certainly.
And I'd say most people who drives manual transmission cars don't double-declutch or heel-toe anyway. Its not a required manuver for driving a manual car, and in normal street driving you aren't driving within a inch of the limit to need to that anyhow. Sure it helps saving the syncros and smooth out the shifts, but try telling that to your average car owners what that means....
Somewhat, I don't think we are the average car owner... :)

[RacingManiac]

the average owners are the people who foots the bill though.....

At any rate, the thing that sold me on that was reading Jim Kenzie's review(a rather respected motor journalist in Canada, winner of Targa Newfoundland a couple of years back in a JCW Cooper S, so not a shabby driver neither), and mentioned how well the system works...

[Ferrer]

the average owners are the people who foots the bill though.....

At any rate, the thing that sold me on that was reading Jim Kenzie's review(a rather respected motor journalist in Canada, winner of Targa Newfoundland a couple of years back in a JCW Cooper S, so not a shabby driver neither), and mentioned how well the system works...
For a sportscar I thought the bar was a little bit higher...

Even so, I prefer simplicity.

[cmcpokey]

For a sportscar I thought the bar was a little bit higher...

Even so, I prefer simplicity.

i can see the point in this. with this car specifically. the VQ engine in Z guise is very course at low to mid level revs. if you dont rev match while down shifting it is very rough, and can cause the car to jerk rather violently. this woudl make for a much smoother ride when just dawdling around town. and you can turn it off for the track when you will really be heel toeing.

its just a way of making a higher hp car with a manual transmission more livable in day to day driving for the average end user. and don't forget that the more people that like this type car, the more buy it, and the more demand there will be for sportscars. if people have to make major sacrifices to have a car that is marginally faster or more pure, then it won't sell with the volumes that would sustain a mass market car such as this. if you want a car with no bells and whistles, no traction control, light weight, and superlative performance, buy a low volume, purpose built car like a caterham or an atom. don't complain about nissan wanting to sell cars that are 9/10 or 8/10 of what they could have made it, so that they have some possibility of making some money from it.

[Ferrer]

I'm not complaining against Nissan particularly. I'm more against a trend that seems to have settled amongst the auto industry in which every new model has to have more gadgets that the previous one.

And the thing is that most of those gadgets aren't needed at all. This is an example, but so are automatic wipers, automatic lights, seats that vibrate or massage you, adaptative cruise control, electric handbrake and the list goes on and on and on.

I'd rather save weight and complexity than have any of this. You say gor for a focused sportscar, but I think here you are confusing complexity and luxury. I don't want complex cars, but I don't want to be uncomfortable either. It seems though that isn't an option anymore.

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #6

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #7

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #8

[LTSmash]

I'd rather save weight and complexity than have any of this. You say gor for a focused sportscar, but I think here you are confusing complexity and luxury. I don't want complex cars, but I don't want to be uncomfortable either. It seems though that isn't an option anymore.

We are a rare breed.

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #9

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #10

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #11

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #12

[ron60]

The all new Nissan 370Z (official pics from Nissan press server)

Hi there,

I purchased a new 370 Z in early March, 2009. Red ith sports package and manual transmission. The rev-sychro is very cool. No more need to heel and toe. Anyone out there have the new Z? This is my first Nissan. Drove two GTI"s for 21 years.

Ron

[Niko_Fx]

Hi there,

I purchased a new 370 Z in early March, 2009. Red ith sports package and manual transmission. The rev-sychro is very cool. No more need to heel and toe. Anyone out there have the new Z? This is my first Nissan. Drove two GTI"s for 21 years.

Ron

I don't think there's anyone with a 370Z around, there's one member who posted some photos of a base model a while ago but never saw him again...

I own an '07 350Z, welcome to ultimatecarpage.com, any photos of your car? Here's my baby and then my baby with a 370Z ;)

[Kitdy]

Hi there,

I purchased a new 370 Z in early March, 2009. Red ith sports package and manual transmission. The rev-sychro is very cool. No more need to heel and toe. Anyone out there have the new Z? This is my first Nissan. Drove two GTI"s for 21 years.

Ron

Yeah welcome ron60. You think you could give us a review of the 370Z? Maybe some photos? By all accounts I've heard it's stellar/fantastic.

[clutch-monkey]

how does it look in red? any pics?

[Ferrer]

LATEST 370Z PUTS OTHER COUPES IN THE SHADE

* Stunning new paint job for special version of Nissan’s affordable supercar, the 370Z
* Exclusivity guaranteed: strictly limited volume to be available in the UK
* Forged alloys, race car cues, black leather and suede interior
* It’s Yellow

It’s already the one bright spot in the affordable sports car market, but now Nissan is going for gold with a special version of the storming 370Z coupe. Not for shrinking violets, the new 370Z Yellow lives up to its name in spectacular fashion.

Ultimate Yellow is the paint job and it signals a 370Z with everything that people expect of the 331PS sportster along with a rare exclusivity – there will be a limited number of Yellows available – and a potent visual impact that takes the 370Z’s muscular looks to new heights. Some cars were just born to be yellow.

The 370Z Yellow gets design cues that nod at the racing 370Zs from the European GT4 series. The wheels are 19-inch RAYS forged alloys and along the flanks are special 370Z graphics, both items setting off the gleaming yellow body to perfection.

Inside the contrast could not be greater: the theme here is black leather and suede. There’s an integrated satellite navigation system, illuminated entry plates, special mats and a BOSE audio with eight speakers and a six-CD autochanger. The sophistication continues with heated seats, cruise control, speed limiter and all the other features from the 370Z GT Pack on which the special Yellow model is based.

The 370Z Yellow is, like all the new-generation versions of this world famous sports car dynasty, powered by an enthusiast’s delight of a V6 engine. It pumps out 331PS at 7000rpm backed up by a meaty 270lb ft of pulling power.

With a six-speed manual box (a seven-speed automatic is optional), the Yellow sprints from rest to 62mph in 5.3sec and goes on to a restricted top speed of 155mph. A synchronised rev control during downchanges reminds you just how good the engine sounds – even when just trundling to the shops.

The Yellows for the UK are available from all participating Nissan dealers but definitely from all High Performance Centres where its big brother the GT-R is exclusively sold. The first cars will be available from September with prices from £31,650 (manual gears) or £33,050 (automatic).

[whiteballz]

****Some cars were just born to be yellow.****


Not this car though.

[cargirl1990]

it is by far going to be bought by ricers but i think it looks better than its predecessor. it looks aggressive. they mostly got some of the styling ques from the Maxima. and THAT's ok with me!! :D

[whiteballz]

ricers cant afford this car. Not for another twenty years.

[cargirl1990]

ricers cant afford this car. Not for another twenty years.

maybe rich, spoiled rotton ricers?

[DesmoRob]

I think if Nissan wants some real attention, they need to modernize the 300ZX and slam a V8 in it, instead of straying further away from it with this. The 350 is a decent looking car, but the 370 looks like a 350 when it gets out of bed in the morning, before washing its face and applying makeup. 300ZX FTW because it was so badass that Lamborghini even used their headlights on the late Diablos. It had all the right ingredients. Low and wide, aggressive and sinister but not overdone with stupid unnecessary angles.

[Ferrer]

I think if Nissan wants some real attention, they need to modernize the 300ZX and slam a V8 in it, instead of straying further away from it with this. The 350 is a decent looking car, but the 370 looks like a 350 when it gets out of bed in the morning, before washing its face and applying makeup. 300ZX FTW because it was so badass that Lamborghini even used their headlights on the late Diablos. It had all the right ingredients. Low and wide, aggressive and sinister but not overdone with stupid unnecessary angles.
What?

If anything the 300ZX was the result of years of increasing weight and size and ended up being a fat middle of the road coupe. The 350Z and 370Z are a return to the original formula.

[DesmoRob]

What?

If anything the 300ZX was the result of years of increasing weight and size and ended up being a fat middle of the road coupe. The 350Z and 370Z are a return to the original formula.

Thinking back to what came before the 300, it does make sense. In that case, I just don't like the original formula :D.

The fat 300ZX still outran the 350Z in a straight line though. Don't know about track.

[Ferrer]

Thinking back to what came before the 300, it does make sense. In that case, I just don't like the original formula :D.

The fat 300ZX still outran the 350Z in a straight line though. Don't know about track.
There's so much more than straight line to driving, don't you think? ;)

[DesmoRob]

There's so much more than straight line to driving, don't you think? ;)

Fully agreed, but the 300 is still an old dog, so I have to credit it.

[cmcpokey]

I think if Nissan wants some real attention, they need to modernize the 300ZX and slam a V8 in it, instead of straying further away from it with this. The 350 is a decent looking car, but the 370 looks like a 350 when it gets out of bed in the morning, before washing its face and applying makeup. 300ZX FTW because it was so badass that Lamborghini even used their headlights on the late Diablos. It had all the right ingredients. Low and wide, aggressive and sinister but not overdone with stupid unnecessary angles.
i like the 300, but i prefer the 350. the 300 got so far away from what a Z was supposed to be. and as far as a V8, i really think a TT would be much more suitable. the engine is regularly given twin turbos in the aftermarket, and the 6 cyl turbo setup has a lot of history in the Z community.

[whiteballz]

The 300 was an absolute obese bastard, let alone a massive headache on wheels when it came time to service the engine.

[DesmoRob]

i like the 300, but i prefer the 350. the 300 got so far away from what a Z was supposed to be. and as far as a V8, i really think a TT would be much more suitable. the engine is regularly given twin turbos in the aftermarket, and the 6 cyl turbo setup has a lot of history in the Z community.

Yea, that's true. Only thing is, turbo charging makes for extra things to go wrong with the car, and giving it two is just amplifying that risk. I prefer a solid V8 that doesn't need turbos to be grunty.

The 300 was an absolute obese bastard, let alone a massive headache on wheels when it came time to service the engine.

Its totally a mechanic's worst nightmare. I don't even know how they managed to fit all that crap in there. You'd be lucky to find a gap in there big enough to hide a pencil. Despite that, I still love it.

[Revo]

All you need is one well placed stripe and suddenly this car is a real looker.

GT Edition #1

[Revo]

GT Edition #2

[Ferrer]

I was downloading them... :p

Anyway, here is the press release.

NISSAN 370Z GT EDITION: A CELEBRATION

What could be better than the Nissan 370Z, an out-and-out sports car with a powerful engine and an agile rear-wheel drive chassis? Answer, the 370Z GT Edition, a special version of the latest model to wear the iconic Z badge.

"Nissan is a winner in GT racing all over the world and the DNA found in our track stars also courses through our road cars. The 370Z GT Edition with its subtle suspension revisions brings road and race cars even closer together and shows that motoring can still be fun."
Andy Palmer, Senior Vice President, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd

At a glance

Special limited edition racing-themed Coupé
Three special body colour choices
Classic body side stripes
Darkened 19 inch RAYS forged alloy wheels
And across the range...
... suspension changes to enhance ride comfort
... better road noise isolation
... rear view camera with satellite navigation option
... tyre pressure monitoring system

Overview

Before the Datsun 240Z burst onto the scene more than four decades ago, the sports car was preserve of Europe and America. Until that point, Japan's motor industry hadn't contemplated anything as bold. But that classic rear-wheel drive ‘Z' showed Nissan was a quick learner and it instantly captured the imagination of sports car enthusiasts all over the world.

The spirit of that pioneering ‘Z' lives on in the latest 370Z. Like the 240Z, the 370 - launched in 2009 - is powered by a six-cylinder engine and provides genuine excitement thanks to its performance oriented rear-wheel drive chassis. Like its forebear, its name indicates the size of engine under the bonnet: the original had 2.4-litres while the 370's V6 power pack displaces 3.7-litres.

But times change. Where the 240Z made do with 150bhp, the 370Z has more than double that, while 40 years of chassis development mean the latest version has levels of ride comfort, handling ability and safety that the original could only dream about.

And it's just got better. The latest 370Z, the GT Edition, offers more for less. As well as 19inch RAYS forged alloy wheels in place of 18inch wheels, special body colours and unique GT stripes, the GT Edition actually costs less than the standard car.

As the name implies, the GT Edition highlights Nissan's presence in GT racing on the world stage. As well as its continuing commitment to Super GT in Japan, Nissan has been one of the leading lights in the new GT1 World Championship, winning the prestigious Tourist Trophy in 2010 with the fearsome GT-R. The Nissan Z family has been a race winner in the FIA GT4 European Cup since its inception and competes annually in various 24 hour races - the highlight being the Nürburgring 24 hours.

The Nissan 370Z GT4 Cup race car has raced toe to toe against competition from Aston Martin, Porsche and BMW across Europe in the real world while it is also the racing gamers' vehicle of choice in the virtual world.

An innovative link with Gran Turismo 5 game for PlayStation® 3 has seen cyber racers compete against each other to win a drive in a real 370Z GT4 cup car. The 2011 GT Academy series is about to start with on-line gamers ready to swap the virtual world for the real thing.

The best will become part of the Nissan GT Academy, a motor racing ladder that could take top drivers from local series through the European Blancpain Endurance series right the way to international GT1 World Championship.

370Z GT Edition in detail

The 370 GT Edition recognises its heritage with a nod to the 1970s and the birth of the original Z car: special side stripes.

Grey ‘GT' stripes running along the flanks of the car contrast with the each of the special edition's three body colours - metallic black, pearl white and Black Rose, the latter shade exclusive to GT Edition. The exterior is set off by the standard 19inch RAYS forged alloy wheels, which are finished in a dramatic anthracite colour.

The GT Edition introduces a number of significant suspension and equipment improvements which have also been adopted by the standard Coupé. In deference to the higher average speeds routinely enjoyed in Europe, the changes have been engineered by technicians from Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE). The principal modification has been to retune the dampers to provide the ideal balance between ride comfort and high-speed handling.

Equipment changes include the arrival of a rear view parking camera as part of the Nissan Premium Connect satellite navigation option and the standard fitment of a tyre pressure monitoring system. The advanced seven-speed automatic option now has a snow mode which, when applied, sets the car off in second gear and controls engine revs to prevent wheel spin on ice or snow. Refinement is enhanced by revisions to underbody insulation to reduce road noise.

Unchanged is the 370Z's exceptional 3.7-litre V6 engine. A development of the unit that powered the 350Z, the all-alloy 24-valve twin cam not only develops more power and torque but is also more response, more refined and more fuel efficient.

The addition of VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology helps deliver electrifying performance, the engine developing 328PS and an impressive 363Nm of torque. It is coupled to a short throw six-speed sports manual gearbox or a seven-speed automatic.

When in S-Mode, the manual transmission features Nissan's Synchro Rev Control to ensures perfect rev matching when the driver is changing gear, delivering perfect ‘heel and toe' changes every time.

Sensors on the clutch and on the gear lever itself monitor driver actions to blip the throttle on down shifts and maintain constant engine revs when changing up. As the sensors detect clutch pedal movement, the SRC system is primed, coming into operation when the gear lever is moved. By matching this information to vehicle speed, SRC knows whether the driver is slowing for a corner or changing up through the 'box.

Downshift Rev Matching is a feature on the automatic gearbox, too, which also has Adaptive Shift Control which learns a driving style and adjust shift patterns accordingly.

The 370Z's chassis is a car enthusiast's dream: double wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear end makes the most of Nissan's agile FM (Front Midships) rear-drive platform.

With a shorter wheelbase, wider track and stiffer shell than its predecessor, the 370Z has starred on track as well as on road. The innovative GT Academy programme takes computer gamers who have become Gran Turismo experts on PlayStation 3 and turns them into real race drivers. Now in its third season, winners will again race for a place on the grid in a GT4 race prepared 370Z at the Dubai 24 hours in January 2012 and, perhaps, on to the GT pinnacle, GT1.

Be assured that this is the real thing. Inaugural GT Academy champion Lucas Ordoñez will race in the Le Mans 24 hours with a Nissan-powered Le Mans Prototype car. Ordonez said: "Two and a half years ago I was at home racing on the PlayStation. I'm now a racing driver thanks to PlayStation and Nissan. I can't wait to race at the most famous race in the world in June for the SIGNATEC NISSAN team; it really is a dream come true. "

"The 370Z is an iconic sports car and the GT Edition underlines its appeal to enthusiasts everywhere," said Pierre Loing, Vice President Product Planning, Nissan International SA. "The combination of outstanding performance and the dramatic looks of this very special 370Z more than lives up to the heritage of its illustrious forebear while its strong links to the race track shows its true pedigree."

[NSXType-R]

The 300 was an absolute obese bastard, let alone a massive headache on wheels when it came time to service the engine.

Yes, my uncle has a T-top 300, he doesn't drive it at all because he's a family man now but he still holds onto it so it sits around his garage a whole lot.

He has ignition and compression problems, so my dad looked at it. He needs to remove a whole lot of stuff to get to everything. I think he's planning to just sell it.

Yea, that's true. Only thing is, turbo charging makes for extra things to go wrong with the car, and giving it two is just amplifying that risk. I prefer a solid V8 that doesn't need turbos to be grunty.



Its totally a mechanic's worst nightmare. I don't even know how they managed to fit all that crap in there. You'd be lucky to find a gap in there big enough to hide a pencil. Despite that, I still love it.

The 300 is nice looking, but I think the 350Z is better looking than the 370Z. The 240Z is a classic in its own right, but the original is still the nicest looking of them all. Then the 80's came and people thought automatic seat belts and plastic body cladding was a good idea.

The 370Z, while I like it for the features and gizmos (manual gearbox rev matching stuff), still can't beat the styling of the 350Z.

All you need is one well placed stripe and suddenly this car is a real looker.

GT Edition #1

I'm not feeling the styling.

I hate the headlights the most. The rear I like a lot though.

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #17

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #18

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #19

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #20

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #21

[Kitdy]

A pretty subtle refresh. Nissan seems to have missed the target with this one. The 350Z seemed to be a hit here in NA; the 370Z has not made a dent.

I'd like to see a 240SX remake/BRZ rival from Nissan. For that matter, the G37 is long in the tooth.

They are a company that typically leaves me cold.

[Ferrer]

Nissan 370Z #22

[Ferrer]

A pretty subtle refresh. Nissan seems to have missed the target with this one. The 350Z seemed to be a hit here in NA; the 370Z has not made a dent.

I'd like to see a 240SX remake/BRZ rival from Nissan. For that matter, the G37 is long in the tooth.

They are a company that typically leaves me cold.
Here is it a a tiny little detail in the market. Like any other petrol engined car for that matter...

If the Toyobaru is a hit Nissan will surely prepare an answer.

I quite like Nissan. Except for the Qashqai. That exemplifies everything that's wrong with the current car market.

[Dino Scuderia]

The 370Z was a great update from the 350...but dropping the fangs on this latest one has not gotten a warm welcome.

[clutch-monkey]

really? i hated the fangs, thought they could integrate them with the grill better.
though the update does make it look more 350..