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Nissan Z Coupe First drive at launch 2022

Rob Fraser

Nissan Z – Nissan has just launched the latest version of their classic sports car the Nissan Z. It’s without doubt the most stylish design since the original simple and elegant 240Z in 1969.

The latest Z sports coupe is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6, with a choice of a close ratio 6 speed manual with rev matching or a nine speed sports automatic.

Driving the rear wheels the engine produces 298kW and 475Nm. Both the transmissions come with launch control for the first time.

TO LISTEN TO THE NISSAN Z RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

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Inside its tight, especially for someone like me that is bigger than the average bear, but if your say 185mm or under you will fit well. Luggage space is minimalist but the lift back hatch allows easy access.

The Nissan Z is all about the driving though and it’s so much fun to drive. The six speed manual is slick and smooth and many buyers, almost 70% of pre orders, will opt for that. I prefer the auto. Its silky smooth, easy to drive and allows you the choice of simply pottering around or blasting along your favourite windy road without fuss.

One thing that really stood out on my initial drive is just how well the balance between compliance and performance the suspension is achieved. There is none of the harshness or jiggling that you get in some other sports coupes, just a silky smooth ride. Yet handling dynamics aren’t compromised at all.

If you want one you better get in quick as there are already way more orders than cars at this stage,

Priced from $73,300 plus the usual costs it’s a performance bargain

This is a Motoring Minute

Im Rob Fraser

What is good?

What is not so good?
  • Responsive to driver inputs
  • Fun Fun Fun
  • Front engine Rear wheel drive
  • Tight interior
  • No wireless Apple Car Play
  • Internal storage

Also look at

Other Z articles

Model   

Nissan Z Coupe
Model Price From $73,300 MLP*
Engine 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo Petrol
Drivetrain RWD 6 Sp MT or 9 Sp AT
Power 298 kW @ 6,400 rpm
Torque 475 Nm @ 1,600 – 5,600 rpm
Safety TBA
CO2 Emissions TBC
Economy ADR 10.8 L/100km  MT – 9.8L/100km AT / 62L tank
0-100kmh / top speed 4.0 secs (est) / 250kmh
Servicing TBC
Warranty 5yr/ Unlimited km with 5 Yr. conditional roadside assist

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Overall Rating    

91/100 
Behind the Wheel 9
Comfort 9
Equipment 9
Performance 9
Ride and Handling 10
Practicality 8
Fit for Purpose 9
Style / appeal 9
Technology / connectivity 9
Value for Money 10

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Nissan Z More Details

Nissan Z has been around since 1969, first up with the elegant 240 Z then a host of variations that morphed from nimble and sporty to fat and bloated then back to sporty again.

It’s a proud legacy, which is why Nissan’s seventh-generation model pays homage to its illustrious past, while celebrating its future.

Key Highlights

What does the Nissan Z exterior look Like?

In a word, sexy. The designers have really gone full circle with this model. Its not quite as simply elegant as the original 240Z but objectively better looking than every model since.

In the words of the Nissan marketing blurb – Some of the Z’s unique visual elements will be striking at first observation, such as the silver accent that enhances the car’s roofline, similar in shape to the katana, the traditional Japanese sword.

There is homage to the 300ZX as well with the twin capsule rear lights.

However it’s the proportions that seem to be just right. Its unmistakably a front-engine, rear-drive performance vehicle.

From the front the long bonnet gently slopes downwards towards the slotted wide front grill that not only is aesthetically pleasing but also assists dramatically with engine cooling.

The LED headlights and DRLs sit seamlessly.

Profile shows the sexy silhouette with wheel arch bulges around the 19” forged RAYS alloys in dark metallic with red calipers, shod in low profile Potenza high performance tyres.

One noticeable design feature is the almost straight sloping roofline from the “A” pillar to the end of the lift back tail. It’s unusual and gives the Z a distinctive striking style.

Thankfully the designers maintain the lift back style, which allows a large glass area for visibility.

Well done Nissan the proportions are spot on.

What about inside the Nissan Z

As mentioned it’s tight, very tight and a taller, larger driver like me really feels it.

I couldn’t actually change gears as there wasn’t enough room from the top of the clutch take up point and the steering wheel. No such issues with the Automatic.

I am unusual though and almost every other driver on the launch didn’t have the same problem.

The ambience is a mix of old school and modern design.

The suede heated seats are particularly comfortable and electronically adjustable. Just not enough slide for me.

Steering wheel is both height and reach adjustable and fits perfectly in the hands. It frames the multi-mode 12.3-inch TFT driver instrumentation display with three driver modes. Its clear and easy to read and configure.

Between the seats is a central console storage bin, twin cup holders and the transmission. There isn’t a lot of room for the little things though, and the phones take up the cup holders.

The 8.0 inch central screen seems a little small and at odds with the huge instrument panel. Having said that its clear and functional. Just not a feature.

A high-quality eight-speaker BOSE sound system is standard equipment, as is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two USB connection are also provided for extra charging and connectivity options.

Given the way things are going wireless Apple CarPlay would have been appreciated.

I love the triple dials on the top of the central console, a real continuation of the original design.

Boot space is minimalist and a couple of smaller overhead luggage bags fit and soft bags.

There is no spare tyre, just a can of goop.

Nissan Z engine and drivetrain

Thankfully Nissan has kept the 3.0L V6 Turbo petrol engine. Its produces a healthy 298kW and 475Nm. That’s similar to the Audi RS3, Kia Stinger GT, Toyota Supra and Porsche 911 Carrera.

This engine drives the rear wheels, with a mechanical limited slip diff, through either a six speed manual or nine speed automatic transmission.

Both are smooth and well matched to the engine. Both transmissions feature launch control for the first time.

Two driving modes are available: Standard and Sport, which unlocks performance by changing the steering profile, activating the Active Sound Enhancement system, and engaging sports mode in the Vehicle Dynamic Control. With sound actuation the ‘Z’ provides the right amount of aural delight as well.

Nissan has done an excellent job of having sports suspension that is super smooth on the road while pottering around without compromising the stunning dynamics. There is none of the harshness or jiggling on the road that you experience with some other sports coupes.

Acceleration is estimated at 0-100kmh between 4 and 4.5 seconds. Nissan were extremely reluctant to put a figure on it and I understand why. Its almost impossible for anyone to replicate these manufacturer figures, however note that is the same as the Porsche Carrera.

Feedback through the driver inputs from steering, acceleration and braking are as you would expect. Sharp, responsive and direct without being overly intrusive.

In short the Nissan Z is a HEAP OF FUN to drive

Nissan Z Final thoughts

I’ve always been a fan of the ‘Z sports cars and this latest version is absolutely the best yet.

We should all take the time to appreciate that sports cars such as this continue to exist. There is something special about a powerful, front engine, rear wheel drive sports coupe.

In terms of competitors for the ‘Z’ there are a few, but not many.

Porsche should be worried. They won’t like being compared but here is a coupe that does everything the 911 Carrera does for less than a third of the price.

That alone describes the Nissan Z, its a performance bargain.

Its fair to say I LOVE the Nissan Z, I just wish I was a touch shorter to fully appreciate it.

Nissan Z model walk

 Nissan Z Coupe

Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price: $73,300 MLP*

 Powertrain:

 Suspension:

Wheels and tyres:

Brakes:

Infotainment:

Exterior design features:

Interior trim and comfort features:

Safety:

Full suite of Nissan Intelligent Mobility features including:

Comprehensive safety offering also includes:

Nissan Z Coupe PROTO (sold out)

Manufacturers Recommended Retail: $80,700 MLP*

In addition to Z Coupe, PROTO variant features:

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Leather-accented features and upholstery may contain synthetic

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