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Nissan Z

Nissan

Nissan Z: Nissan's modern Z (2023+). VR30DDTT twin-turbo V6, retro-influenced styling, and the spiritual successor to 24
Photo: Charles01 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Nissan's modern Z (2023+). VR30DDTT twin-turbo V6, retro-influenced styling, and the spiritual successor to 240Z, 280Z, and 300ZX.

The Nissan Z (chassis code RZ34) is the seventh-generation Z car, produced from 2023 onward. The Z replaces the 370Z (which had been in production from 2009-2020) and represents a significant modernization with new styling, new engine, and updated chassis dynamics. The Z uses the VR30DDTT twin-turbocharged V6 making 400 horsepower in standard trim and 420 horsepower in NISMO variant. The Z styling references the original 240Z (sold 1969-1973) with retro-influenced design cues including the squared-off front grille, side proportions, and rear pillar treatment. The interior has updated infotainment, modern instrument cluster, and refined materials. Six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmissions are available. Rear-wheel drive only. The new Z launched to mixed reception. Reviews praised the engine power and chassis dynamics; some criticized the styling as derivative or insufficient differentiation from competitors. The Z competes with the Toyota Supra A90, BMW M2, and various other modern sport coupes. The Z NISMO variant launched in 2024 with sharper chassis tuning and aerodynamic enhancements. Pricing positions the Z as the affordable RWD sport coupe option. New Z starts around $42,000 base and reaches $55,000+ for NISMO. Used pricing has been moderate; the model is too new for significant depreciation in most cases. On WhipJury, Z submissions are growing as the cars age into the platform. Stock examples reliably do well. Modified Zs (intake, exhaust, tune) are increasingly common. The community is engaging with the new Z; opinions vary on whether it's a worthy successor to the previous Z car lineage.

VR30DDTT engine

Nissan's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 used in various Nissan and Infiniti applications. In the Z, makes 400 horsepower (420 in NISMO). Aluminum block and heads, twin-scroll turbochargers, direct injection. The VR30DDTT replaced the naturally aspirated VQ37VHR used in the 370Z; the new turbocharged engine produces significantly more power and torque while maintaining reliability.

Z NISMO

The Z NISMO (launched 2024) is the focused performance variant. 420 horsepower (vs 400 standard), revised chassis tuning, more aggressive aerodynamics, and NISMO-specific styling and trim. The variant continues the NISMO 370Z formula at higher pricing and performance level.

Z on WhipJury

New Z submissions are growing. Stock examples reliably do well. Modified Zs are increasingly common. The community is split on the new Z styling and whether it represents true Z car heritage; voting tends to reward thoughtful execution rather than just stock appearance.

Frequently asked questions about Nissan Z

Is the new Z really a Z car?
Subjective. The new Z is a modern sport coupe with significant power and refined chassis dynamics. It uses a turbocharged V6 (vs naturally aspirated in previous Zs) and modernized styling. Some enthusiasts argue the turbo, the styling references, and the focus on power over chassis dynamics make it less of a true Z car than the original 240Z. Others argue the underlying platform and Z lineage justify the name. The community is split.
Is the Z faster than the 370Z?
Yes, significantly. 400 horsepower (vs 332 in standard 370Z). 0-60 in around 4.5 seconds (vs 5.5 in 370Z). Top speed around 155 mph. The new Z is meaningfully faster; the chassis dynamics are also widely considered improved over the 370Z.
How much does a Z cost?
New: starts around $42,000 base, NISMO around $55,000. Used Z (2023+ model years): $35,000-$50,000 depending on trim and condition. Used pricing has been moderate; the model is too new for significant depreciation.
Is the Z reliable?
Too new for definitive long-term data. The VR30DDTT engine has been reliable in earlier Infiniti applications. Common owner complaints have been minor (occasional infotainment glitches). As with any new model, comprehensive reliability data is still developing.
Will Nissan continue the Z lineage?
Yes, with the new Z continuing through 2026+ at minimum. Whether Nissan will produce the next-generation Z (Z35 or RZ35 likely) and what powertrain it will use is uncertain. The Z NISMO is the current focused variant; future Z variants and successors have been speculated but not confirmed.

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