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The 2027 Nissan Z: Manual Transmission Finally Arrives for NISMO, Plus Major Suspension Upgrades
Nissan stunned enthusiasts by previewing the updated Z at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, but now we have all the US-specific details. The Japanese automaker has confirmed that the 2027 Nissan Z lineup, including the high-performance NISMO variant, will receive a host of significant upgrades—most notably the return of a manual transmission for the NISMO model. This long-awaited change, along with substantial chassis and aerodynamic enhancements, positions the 2027 Nissan Z as a serious contender in the sports car market.
For years, Nissan Z enthusiasts have pleaded for a manual gearbox in the NISMO version, and the automaker has finally answered the call. The 2027 Nissan Z NISMO will feature a six-speed manual transmission equipped with an upgraded clutch and a shorter shift lever ratio, providing a more engaging and precise driving experience. While the base Z Sport and Performance trims will continue to offer manual transmission options, they will not receive the enhanced clutch and shifter upgrades found in the NISMO model. This strategic move acknowledges the demands of the hardcore Z community while maintaining the broader appeal of the standard trims.
Beyond the transmission, the 2027 Nissan Z NISMO receives a significant power boost. The 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, already a potent powerplant in the current Z, has been recalibrated to deliver 420 horsepower—an increase of 20 hp over the non-NISMO models, which remain rated at 400 hp. This power bump is complemented by revised throttle and ignition timing, resulting in more aggressive throttle response and better sustained torque delivery across the rev range. To further enhance the driving sensation, Nissan has retuned the Active Sound Enhancement and Active Noise Cancellation systems for the NISMO Z, allowing drivers to amplify the intake and exhaust notes when Sport mode is engaged. This ensures that the auditory experience matches the car’s enhanced performance capabilities.
Braking performance, a critical aspect of any sports car, has also received a substantial upgrade. The 2027 NISMO Z incorporates Akebono front brakes featuring a two-piece rotor design partially derived from the legendary Nissan GT-R. These brakes utilize forged aluminum hats and cross-drilled iron rotors, significantly improving pad performance and rotor cooling. The weight reduction achieved through this redesign is impressive, with the front end weighing approximately 19 pounds less than the current model. This weight savings allows for further refinements to the front dampers and steering rack, contributing to the car’s overall handling prowess. The steering system itself benefits from reduced internal friction—a claimed 20% improvement—resulting in a more precise steering feel and better feedback for the driver. This enhanced steering precision should translate to fewer corrections during spirited cornering, allowing drivers to place the car more confidently through turns.
Aerodynamic improvements are another highlight of the 2027 Nissan Z updates, with many of the changes introduced on the Japanese version making their way to the US market. The exterior design pays homage to the iconic S30 generation Z, featuring a new Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic paint option—known as Unryu Green in Japan—which will be exclusively paired with a Super Black roof color. This striking color combination pays tribute to the Z’s heritage while offering a fresh, contemporary look. The performance-oriented 19-inch wheels draw inspiration from the Z31 generation’s aluminum alloy 15-inch wheels, blending classic design cues with modern engineering.
Further exterior enhancements include a redesigned nose that improves cooling while simultaneously reducing lift and drag. A new body-color bar bisects the grille opening, creating a cleaner and more integrated appearance, while a subtle but noticeable “Z” emblem graces the front nose. These aerodynamic refinements are not merely cosmetic; they contribute to the car’s overall performance envelope, ensuring that the 2027 Nissan Z remains planted and stable at high speeds.
On the chassis front, the 2027 Nissan Z benefits from larger-diameter monotube dampers, a significant upgrade over the previous setup. These dampers, now measuring 45mm in diameter (approximately 1.8 inches), provide a 26.6% increase in size. This enhancement results in improved ride quality while maintaining predictable and consistent performance, even during aggressive driving. The NISMO variant will receive these larger dampers as well, albeit with further tuning to complement its more performance-focused character.
Fuel delivery has also been addressed with a new fuel tank design engineered to maintain consistent fuel levels during high-G cornering. This is a welcome change for enthusiasts who participate in track days, autocross, or time attack events, as fuel starvation during hard cornering can be a frustrating and performance-limiting issue. The redesigned fuel tank ensures that the engine receives a steady supply of fuel, allowing drivers to push the car to its limits with confidence.
Inside, the 2027 Nissan Z largely carries over its well-received interior design, but key upgrades enhance convenience and functionality. The Z Performance and NISMO models will feature a new Qi2 wireless charger with an integrated cooling fan to manage heat during charging. This high-speed charging system provides up to 15 watts of output and utilizes magnetic alignment, ensuring optimal device placement and efficient charging for a wide range of compatible devices.
Nissan expects the 2027 Z and Z NISMO to arrive at dealerships by this summer, with pricing details to be released closer to the launch date. Based on current 2026 pricing and considering import costs and market conditions, the base Z Sport is anticipated to launch with an MSRP between $46,000 and $47,000. The Z Performance trim is expected to be priced between $56,000 and $58,000, while the flagship Z NISMO is projected to come in between $66,000 and $68,000. These price points position the 2027 Nissan Z competitively within the sports car segment, offering significant value given the substantial upgrades in performance, handling, and technology.
The introduction of the manual transmission to the NISMO Z is a game-changer, addressing the most significant criticism of the current model and signaling Nissan’s commitment to the enthusiast market. This, combined with the powertrain refinements, brake upgrades, chassis improvements, and aerodynamic enhancements, creates a compelling package that should excite Z fans and attract new buyers to the fold. The 2027 Nissan Z is not merely an update; it is a significant evolution that elevates the Z experience to new heights, ensuring its place as a relevant and desirable sports car for years to come.
The decision to bring these upgrades to the US market underscores Nissan’s understanding of what makes the Z special. It’s a car that has always been about the driver, and these changes reinforce that philosophy. The manual transmission in the NISMO, in particular, speaks volumes about Nissan’s dedication to the purist driving experience. It’s a nod to the Z’s heritage and a commitment to the future of manual sports cars in a market increasingly dominated by automatics. This move could also inspire other automakers to offer manual options in their performance vehicles, potentially sparking a renaissance for the manual transmission.
Beyond the enthusiast-focused NISMO, the Z Sport and Performance trims also benefit from these improvements, making the entire 2027 Nissan Z lineup more appealing. The standard Z models already offer a compelling blend of performance and value, and with these updates, they become even stronger competitors. The improved ride quality, enhanced steering feel, and updated interior features make the 2027 Z a more refined and enjoyable car for daily driving as well as spirited canyon runs.
The aerodynamic changes are particularly noteworthy, as they demonstrate Nissan’s attention to detail in optimizing the car’s performance. Reducing lift and drag while improving cooling is a complex engineering challenge, and the company appears to have struck the right balance. These improvements will be most noticeable at higher speeds, where the car will feel more planted and stable. The redesigned nose and grille not only enhance aerodynamics but also give the 2027 Z a refreshed and more aggressive look, further setting it apart from the current model.
The suspension upgrades are perhaps the most significant mechanical changes, promising a dramatic improvement in handling and ride quality. The larger monotube dampers provide better damping control, which is crucial for managing body roll and maintaining tire contact with the road. This will be particularly evident during hard cornering, where the car should feel more composed and predictable. The NISMO version’s enhanced tuning for these dampers will ensure that it delivers a truly track-worthy experience, while the standard models will benefit from a more comfortable and refined ride.
The fuel tank redesign is a subtle but important detail that speaks to Nissan’s understanding of its customers’ needs. For track day enthusiasts, fuel starvation can be a significant problem, often requiring costly aftermarket solutions. The fact that Nissan has addressed this issue in the 2027 Z demonstrates a commitment to the performance community. This small change could make a big difference in the overall ownership experience for many Z owners.
The interior upgrades, while less dramatic than the mechanical and aerodynamic changes, are still notable. The Qi2 wireless charger with cooling fan is a welcome addition, providing a convenient and efficient way to charge devices on the go. This feature, along with the improved magnetic alignment, ensures that devices stay securely in place and charge optimally. In an increasingly connected world, having a reliable and fast charging solution is an important convenience feature for many drivers.
The pricing structure for the 2027 Nissan Z lineup appears to be well-positioned, offering competitive value across all trims. The base Z Sport remains an affordable entry point into the world of rear-wheel
