As rumoured, Nissan has been working away on a new Nissan Z NISMO. And here it is. It brings in various visual and handling enhancements, as well as some tech updates.
Firstly, the engine. The ‘VR30’ 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 remains, but it has been tweaked to produce 313kW and 521Nm, up from 298kW and 475Nm in the standard Z. Peak torque is available from 2000-5200rpm, which is narrower than the standard Z’s max torque range of 1600-5600rpm.
These output changes come thanks to a revised wastegate for the turbochargers allowing more intake boost pressure, along with independent ignition timing that is apparently inspired the GT-R NISMO. NISMO has also applied cooling upgrades in terms of a bespoke oil cooler to help manage the upgrades.
Unfortunately for manual transmission lovers, the new Z NISMO will only be available with the nine-speed auto. It has been retuned to provide faster shifts though, with new clutch packs and altering programming. The launch control system is also tweaked to offer “more aggressive” standing starts.
Drivers can select a new Sport+ driving mode to utilise these revisions, especially on a track. Nissan says the mode is so responsive that drivers don’t need to use the shift paddles on a track, as the powertrain is already ready to play. Manual shifting is still possible, however.
Speaking of track driving, NISMO has applied its own suspension package to enhance handling, improve predictability and grip. A set of bespoke stabiliser bars, stiffer springs and larger and retuned dampers are included.
Extra chassis bracing, including under the floor, and stiffer bushes increase torsional rigidity by 2.5 per cent. NISMO says it has tuned the handling under a “one-shot” philosophy. Nissan says:
“The overarching tuning ethos was to deliver accurate, ‘one-shot’ steering that helps drivers to pick their line through a turn with a minimum of steering adjustment needed, contributing to confident track-ready performance.”
The 2024 Nissan Z NISMO wears Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT600 tyres, similar to what’s featured on the GT-R, measuring 285/35 on the back – up from 275/35. The fronts remain unchanged at 255/40. These are wrapped around a set of 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels by RAYS, measuring 10 inches wide on the front and 10.5 inches on the back.
Various tweaks have been applied to the interior and exterior to help boost the Z NISMO’s visual appeal, with a bigger rear spoiler, new front apron and unique rear bumper bar providing a special look. Red highlights are also applied, while a set of Recaro seats are fitted inside along with more red highlights.
The new variant comes in as part of a model year update for the Nissan Z. For 2024, Nissan will be offering the Z Sport and Z Performance, both continuing with the 298kW V6. A six-speed manual also remains an option. However, inside, the media interface welcomes Amazon Alexa connectivity with voice commands.
Nissan Australia has confirmed the new Z NISMO will go on sale locally, but timing and prices are yet to be confirmed. It’s understood it will arrive either later this year or early in 2024.