The Nissan Z has always occupied a special place in the sports-car world. It was never meant to be the most powerful or the most technologically advanced coupe in its class. Instead, the Nissan Z earned its reputation by delivering balance between performance and accessibility, heritage and modern design, and excitement and everyday usability. The 2027 Nissan Z builds on that philosophy with a thoughtful refresh that sharpens the car where it matters most.
Rather than a full redesign, the 2027 model year introduces a thoughtful evolution that sharpens the Z’s appeal in an increasingly competitive and electrified performance market. Let’s explore what’s new in the 2027 Nissan Z!
A Fresh but Familiar Look: Subtle Refinement With Heritage Influence
The most obvious change to the 2027 Nissan Z is that its front end has been revised. Nissan has changed the grille from the bigger, boxier grille of earlier models to a simpler two-piece grille that looks like the "G-nose" style from the first Fairlady Z. This new grille not only looks better, but it also looks like the one on the 2024 Z Heritage Edition. For the 2027 Nissan Z, the changes to the way it looks are small but effective. Some highlights are:
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Unryu Green paint, a bold new color inspired by classic racing heritage that changes character in different lighting.
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Updated 19-inch wheels with black spokes and chrome accents that give the Z a more planted, purposeful stance.
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Removal of the rear lip spoiler results in a cleaner profile and sharper overall presence.
Together, these tweaks enhance the Z’s silhouette without departing from its classic coupe essence.
A Driver-Focused Interior with Meaningful Updates
Inside, the 2027 Nissan Z remains true to its driver-first philosophy. Nissan resisted the urge to flood the cabin with oversized screens or unnecessary gimmicks. Instead, the cockpit remains simple, functional, and intentionally sporty.
The most notable interior upgrade is the introduction of a new tan leather seat, which adds warmth and sophistication to the cabin without dulling its performance edge. Materials feel more considered, while the layout remains refreshingly intuitive. Key interior features include:
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A digital instrument cluster inspired by classic Z gauge designs
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Physical controls for essential driving functions
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Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for modern connectivity
Proven Twin-Turbo Performance Continues
Performance remains at the heart of the Nissan Z, and the 2027 model carries forward the same 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 engine that defines the current generation. Output figures remain competitive, delivering 400 horsepower in standard trims and 420 horsepower in the performance-oriented Z NISMO. Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels, preserving the traditional sports car layout that has defined the Z for decades.
Manual Transmission Availability for the 2027 Nissan Z
The availability of a six-speed manual transmission for the Z NISMO is one of the most significant changes for the 2027 Nissan Z. This modification fulfills a long-standing enthusiast desire and greatly improves the car's reputation as a driver's machine. In other words, Nissan recognizes the value of an unadulterated driving experience in an era when manual gearboxes are becoming increasingly rare by offering a manual option alongside the conventional nine-speed automatic.
Chassis and Driving Dynamics: Tuned for Control
The 2027 Nissan Z isn't just about looks and transmission choices; it's got some cool upgrades happening under the hood, too. They've tweaked the dampers with bigger pistons, which really boost ride quality and handling. This fixes one of the biggest complaints about earlier models. Big brakes from the GT-R for the performance models give you better stopping power and make you feel more confident when you're loaded up. These upgrades make driving feel smoother on twisty roads and easier to handle in city traffic.
2027 Nissan Z Release Date and Availability
The refreshed 2027 Nissan Z was first showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon in early 2026, giving fans an early look before its broader release. Nissan plans to begin sales in Japan in mid-2026, with deliveries in U.S. showrooms expected by the end of 2026 as a 2027 model. Pricing hasn’t been finalized yet, but Nissan is expected to keep the Z competitive against rivals like the Toyota Supra and BMW M240i.
Where the Z Stands in Today’s Sports-Car Landscape
The sports coupe segment has shifted dramatically in recent years. Many compact sports cars are either switching to new platforms or moving toward electric powertrains. The Z is one of the last true analog sports cars, and it’s got a solid group of fans behind it. Nissan has really nailed it with the 2027 Z, making it a solid pick for those who want that fun, connected driving vibe. They've upped the character, jazzed up the design, added more transmission choices, and just made the whole driving experience way better.
A Refresh With Purpose: Why the 2027 Nissan Z Matters
The 2027 Nissan Z is a purposeful update that makes the model stronger without changing what it stands for. Nissan made smart changes to the car that made it look better, run better, and be more fun to drive while keeping true to its roots. The most enthusiast-focused change is likely the addition of a manual transmission to the NISMO model. This shows that Nissan knows what many drivers still love about the Z experience. The 2027 Nissan Z feels both classic and modern, which is exactly what a modern sports car should do. Its style is influenced by the past, and the chassis has been tuned to make it easier to use every day.
Ultimate Throttle Response Controller: Pedal Commander® for Nissan Z
If you are one of the lucky owners of the Z, or thinking of getting the all-new one, here’s your first and most effective upgrade! The Pedal Commander® throttle response controller plugs into the pedal sensor and remaps the Z’s throttle curve in real time. Pedal Commander® eliminates lag so you feel every millisecond of pedal input, with no extra horsepower.
Choose from Eco, City, Sport, and Sport+ modes, each with nine sensitivity levels. That’s 36 total settings for the perfect pedal response. Dial back the throttle for efficiency, tricky terrain, or valet parking with Eco, then switch to Sport+ for an adrenaline rush on the racetrack.
Pedal Commander® costs a fraction of the price of cold air intakes, exhausts, tunes, or all combined, yet offers a dramatic improvement in pedal response. It optimizes the existing throttle signal without increasing engine load or risk of mechanical failure.
Installation takes under 15 minutes, and it is completely DIY. Ready to sell your vehicle or return to stock? Simply unplug, and you’re done. Pedal Commander® does not overwrite the ECU, requires no permanent wiring changes, and leaves no diagnostic flags. Dealers can’t detect it, so your factory warranty stays intact.
Pedal Commander® units include an Anti‑Theft feature for select vehicles. Subscribe to the Anti‑Theft feature, complete a quick calibration, and disable the gas pedal whenever you need. Enjoy 14 days FREE, then pay just $0.99/month or $9.99/year for total peace of mind.
