Almost a year after showing us the Z Proto concept, Nissan is finally getting ready to pull the covers off the production version, which is set to replace the aging 370Z as the latest in Nissan’s long line of iconic Z cars.
There won’t be too many surprises on the design front as the showroom car is likely to look very similar to the aforementioned concept car, pictured here.
But fans can look forward to a lot more power. Although Nissan has yet to confirm the powertrain and its outputs, it is widely expected that the 400Z will be powered by a 3,0-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine, as per the concept car. According to overseas sources such as Car and Driver, the 400Z should produce around 298 kW (or 400 horsepower, hence its name). While a six-speed manual gearbox will be standard, C&D reports that customers will also have the option of an automatic transmission. You can also bet your bottom dollar on the Z400 retaining its predecessor’s rear-wheel drive configuration.
Although each new Z generation has brought increased outputs, the product specialist in charge of the Z Proto concept, Hiroshi Tamura, reiterated that there is a lot more to this car than just increased power.
“Z is a balance of power and agility. It is a vehicle that creates a connection with the driver not just on the physical level, but emotionally, and responds to the driver’s impulses,” Tamura enthused.
The cabin is also likely to mirror the concept, which looks very production ready to us. The design study mixes old and new, with the traditional high-mounted circular gauges joined by a modern digital instrument cluster and a ‘deep dish’ multi-function steering wheel.
“Designed to fit driver and passenger like a glove, the Z Proto’s cabin seamlessly blends modern technology with vintage Z touches,” Nissan said. And what’s not to like about that?
