Nissan’s 2009 370 Z, to be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November, has undergone major cosmetic and performance surgery enabling it to compete with serious performance coupes such as the BMW M3.
By Bijon de Kock
Nissan has kept the new 370 Z well hidden, but spy photographers have recently managed to capture some aspects of it as posted on .
The 370 Z shares the same general shape as the 350Z; however, it does sport a wider, more aggressive stance to accommodate the power increase. Cosmetic changes are evident in the sharper, arrow-like headlamps, which appear to house LED daytime running lights a-la Audi R8. The taillights have also gone under the knife, losing their elongated top edge. The new tail lights echo the hooked-curves from the headlamps and are slightly smaller than those of the 350 Z. Evident body alterations include more pronounced rear wheel arches as well as a revised rear bumper. The dual exhaust pipes (which should will still emit a satisfying snarl), additional brake lights underneath the number plate, and a slightly larger spoiler round off the rear styling.
The interior undergoes significant improvements bringing it in line with the sector and its competitors.
On the technical front, the suspension has received an upgrade to better cope with the power increase and sports a double wishbone setup in front with a multi-link setup in at the rear. Brembo brakes secure much needed stopping power via 18- and 19-inch wheels. Being shorter and wider than the 350 Z, the 370 Z is said to weigh less, a trait that marries neatly with the power hike.
The increase in power has been mentioned quite a few times already in this article, so we’ll try and put you out of your misery with news that power will come from the VQ37VHR engine driving the Infiniti G37. This unit delivers 246 kW and 366 N.m, overshadowing the 230 kW pushed out by the 350Z’s 3,5-litre mill. The zero to 100 km/h performance is expected to be in the lower 5-second bracket which should give existing performance coupes reason to sit up and take notice. Further reason to rejoice (or, in the case of the competition – panic) comes in the form of a possible future V8 powerplant. According to Japan’s , Nissan’s Chief of Production suggested that an 8-cylinder powerplant is a distinct possibility. There are also rumours of a diesel version in the future to challenge the sporty oil-burning Audi TT.
The six-cylinder unit is likely to be mated with a choice of two transmissions: a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic with paddle-shift. Sales of the 370 Z are slated to commence within the next two years. Prices are not yet available, but the good news is that Nissan product planning VP, Larry Dominique, said Nissan would continue to deliver on the promise of being attainable to a wide range of people.
