Auto-only Nissan Z Nismo gets power bump, chassis upgrades – confirmed for Australia

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Nissan this morning released details and photographs of a much-anticipated, higher-powered Nismo version of its Z sports car and confirmed the upgraded two-door for an Australian release.

The hotted-up Nismo variant of the Z arrives much earlier in the current car’s lifespan than the previous-generation 370Z – but like the previous Z Nismo (review), the new vehicle concentrates on suspension, rigidity, grip and aesthetic upgrades.

But there is also a modest power bump, with the 2024 Z Nismo gaining an extra 15kW/45Nm of output from its 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V6 engine, taking outputs to 313kW (420 horsepower) and 520Nm.

Purists might be dismayed to learn that the new Z Nismo will only be available with a nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission – and not with the six-speed manual that is available at no cost on the regular Z trim, which will continue in Australia and abroad.

Nissan says the auto-box has been optimised. It claims that revised clutch packs and engine management software result in a 2X improvement in downshift time, while engine cooling, ignition spark timing and wastegate control are improved. A new sport plus drive mode is available, intended for track driving.

The regular Z with both manual and automatic gearboxes continues in Australia with 298kW/475Nm and a common price of $73,300 before on-road costs. Read our review of the 2023 Nissan Z here.

However, the long list of Nismo upgrades to the Z should restore interest. These include a revision of “every element” of the suspension, with the changes including Nismo stabiliser bars, stiffer spring rates and larger Nismo-tuned dampers.

Nismo has disclosed that its goal was to imbue the upgraded Z with “one-shot” steering feel that would reduce the need for mid-corner input correction. Wider 285/35 R19 wheels and tyres are fitted at the rear for superior grip and larger 380mm front brake discs are fitted.

Nismo has further braced and stiffened the chassis of the Z coupe with new front, rear and underfloor bracing bringing torsional rigidity up by a modest 2.5 percent. Front and rear suspension bushings are stiffer than on the standard model.

Cosmetically, the Nismo differs from the standard Z via a restyled ‘grand nose’ front apron featuring a lower red line above thin honeycomb mesh grille and functional canards. 

At the rear end the Nismo gains a larger rear spoiler and a redesigned rear bumper for reduced drag – this piece also features a prominent red line detail.

A black roof and black 19-inch Rays alloy wheels are standard, while five body colours are available. These include stealth grey, a Nismo-exclusive hue, plus black diamond pearl, brilliant silver, passion red, and Everest white.

Inside, Recaro seats are used with a leather and Alcantara upholstery – a mix also found n the steering wheel which adds a red 12-o’clock stripe. Graphics for the digital driver display feature Nismo specifics.

Australian pricing and arrival timing for the Z Nismo will be confirmed at a later date.