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2027 Nissan Z Review: The NISMO Finally Gets a Manual Transmission
Nissan has had a tumultuous period recently, yet one bright spot for driving enthusiasts has been the Japanese automaker’s unwavering commitment to its iconic Nissan Z sports car. In early 2026, Nissan unveiled preliminary details of the updated 2027 Z at the Tokyo Auto Salon. Now, we have the complete U.S.-specific information ahead of its debut at the New York auto show. For the most part, the U.S. version mirrors the Japanese model, with only a few minor adjustments—and that’s certainly not a bad thing. This refresh injects renewed excitement into the Nissan Z for sale market, especially for purists seeking a more engaging driving experience.
Shift It Yourself: The NISMO Variant Gets a Manual Transmission Option
The most significant news for the 2027 Nissan Z is the addition of a manual transmission option for the NISMO variant in the U.S. This was a major disappointment for Nissan enthusiasts when the previous NISMO Z was released, but the automaker has now rectified this oversight. The new manual transmission features an upgraded clutch and a shorter shift lever ratio for a more direct and satisfying gear change. While the Z Sport and Performance trims will continue to offer a manual transmission, they will not receive the same specialized upgrades found in the NISMO box.
The NISMO Z’s version of Nissan’s potent 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, rated at 420 horsepower (compared to 400 hp in the non-NISMO models), has been recalibrated for a more aggressive throttle response and enhanced sustained torque delivery. This refinement is achieved through adjustments to the throttle and ignition timing, ensuring the 2027 Nissan Z NISMO feels more alive and responsive. Furthermore, Nissan’s Active Sound Enhancement and Active Noise Cancellation systems have been retuned for the NISMO Z, delivering a more dramatic amplification of intake and exhaust notes when the driver engages Sport mode. This audio enhancement is a key factor in the car’s overall emotional appeal, making it a top contender in the sports cars under $60k category.
Godzilla DNA: The NISMO Z’s Upgraded Braking System
Adding a touch of the legendary Nissan GT-R’s DNA, the 2027 NISMO Z will feature Akebono front brakes with two-piece rotors partially derived from the GT-R. These rotors utilize forged aluminum hats and cross-drilled iron discs, a combination designed to improve brake pad performance and rotor cooling. This upgrade also results in a claimed 19-pound reduction in front-end weight. As a consequence of this weight saving, slight revisions have been made to the front dampers and the steering rack to maintain optimal handling balance.
Speaking of the steering rack, Nissan has managed to reduce its internal friction by approximately 20 percent. This engineering improvement is expected to translate into a slightly more precise steering feel with enhanced feedback for the driver, potentially reducing the need for mid-corner corrections and improving overall agility. For those considering an automatic sports car, this manual-focused upgrade highlights Nissan’s commitment to the purist driving experience, a trend that has seen a resurgence in the 2026 auto market.
2027 Nissan Z Overall Improvements: Heritage Meets Modernity
Beyond the NISMO-specific enhancements, the 2027 Nissan Z will incorporate several updates and heritage-inspired elements that carry over from the Japanese market. These changes will be available across the Z Sport, Performance, and NISMO trims, ensuring a more cohesive and refined product for U.S. consumers seeking the best sports coupe.
One of the most eye-catching updates is the new S30-inspired Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic paint, a color that pays homage to the original Datsun 240Z. Complementing this heritage hue are new 19-inch Z Performance wheels, inspired by the aluminum alloy 15-inch wheels of the Z31 generation. It’s worth noting that the green paint received a name change between the Japanese and U.S. versions, being known as Unryu Green in Japan. For the U.S. market, this distinctive green color will be exclusively available with the Super Black roof option, creating a striking visual contrast.
Other exterior refinements include a new body-color bar that bisects the grille opening, a redesigned nose that improves cooling while reducing both lift and drag, and a new “Z” emblem on the front fascia. These subtle but effective changes contribute to a more modern and aggressive stance, further enhancing the new Nissan Z’s visual appeal.
Underneath the skin, the 2027 Z gains larger-diameter monotube dampers, a feature that was also announced for the Japanese market. While the NISMO will receive these dampers with additional tuning, the Sport and Performance trims will also benefit from this upgrade. The increase in damper diameter is approximately 26.6 percent, with the dampers now measuring 45mm (or about 1.8 inches) in diameter. This enhancement is expected to significantly improve ride quality while providing more predictable and consistent performance, addressing a common criticism of the previous model’s ride firmness. For enthusiasts comparing Nissan Z vs Toyota Supra, this suspension refinement could be a deciding factor.
Another notable engineering improvement is the introduction of a new fuel tank design. Nissan claims this redesign will better maintain fuel levels during high-G cornering maneuvers. This is a particularly welcome change for participants in stock-classed time attack, autocross, and track day events, where fuel starvation during aggressive cornering can be a frustrating and performance-inhibiting issue. This practical improvement underscores Nissan’s attention to the needs of the dedicated enthusiast community, solidifying the Z’s position as a compelling choice for track day cars.
Interior Enhancements: Modern Comfort and Technology
The interior of the 2027 Nissan Z largely carries over from the previous model, maintaining its driver-focused layout and premium materials. However, the Z Performance and NISMO trims will receive a new Qi2 wireless charger. This advanced charging pad features a built-in cooling fan to manage heat during the charging process, ensuring optimal performance and preventing overheating.
The Qi2 standard also incorporates magnetic alignment, which helps to securely position devices for efficient charging. With an output of up to 15 watts, the wireless charger can quickly power a wide range of compatible devices. This integration of modern convenience features demonstrates Nissan’s commitment to keeping the Z competitive in the evolving sports car market.
Availability and Pricing Expectations
Nissan expects the 2027 Z and Z NISMO to arrive at dealerships by the summer of 2026, with pricing information to be released closer to the official launch date. Based on 2026 pricing and current import dynamics, we anticipate the following MSRP range:
Z Sport: Approximately $46,000 to $47,000
Z Performance: Approximately $56,000 to $58,000
Z NISMO: Approximately $66,000 to $68,000
These price points position the 2027 Nissan Z competitively within the affordable sports car segment, offering a compelling blend of performance, technology, and heritage. For prospective buyers, the manual transmission option on the NISMO model is a significant draw, while the suspension and aerodynamic improvements across the lineup promise a more refined driving experience overall. Whether you’re a long-time Z enthusiast or considering your first sports car purchase, the 2027 Nissan Z presents a compelling package that honors its legendary lineage while embracing modern engineering and technology. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, Nissan’s commitment to the Z demonstrates a dedication to the driving enthusiast that is increasingly rare and highly appreciated.
