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Nissan Finally Unveils Its Highly-Anticipated 420-HP NISMO-Spec Z Sportscar

2024 Nissan Z NISMO 0 Hero
Photos: Nissan

It was around this same time last year that the highly-anticipated seventh-generation Nissan Z was finally unveiled. With a 400-hp twin-turbocharged V6 at the heart of the daily-drivable sports car, it was clear right out of the gate that the new RZ34 was no slouch, however, enthusiasts knew it was only a matter of time before the Japanese marque pulled the cover off of the range-topping trim level that we’ve all been waiting for. And after almost exactly a year, that time has finally come with the official reveal of the new 2024 Nissan Z NISMO. 

2024 Nissan Z NISMO 1
Photo: Nissan

Taking lessons from Nissan and NISMO’s Z-based GT500 Super GT Series race car, the outside of the Nissan Z NISMO has been reworked and now features a revised aero kit complete with new front canard wing vortex generators, redesigned side sills, and a new high downforce rear spoiler design. In addition to NISMO badging, the outside of the car also gets a NISMO-exclusive honeycomb grille design and a race style dual-can exhaust setup set in the Z NISMO’s new rear diffuser. Under the surface, the NISMMO-spec Z has also been reconfigured for more spirited, track-focused driving, and now benefits from a reinforced chassis with 2.5% better torsional rigidity, plus larger diameter shocks, higher spring rates, and stiffer stabilizer bars — all of which collectively afford better handling. The Z NISMO also rides on a model-exclusive set of 19” forged RAYS wheels that come shod in special Dunlop tires and fitted with larger (15” front, 13.8” rear) rigid-cut NISMO-spec brake calipers. 

2024 Nissan Z NISMO 2
Photo: Nissan

The twin-turbocharged V6 at the heart of the Z has been retuned, before being bestowed with a new sub-radiator and a bevy of fuel maps that include a NISMO-specific Sport+ drive mode. Mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission that’s been tuned for quicker shifts, this 3.0-liter six-banger now generates 420hp and 384ft-lbs of torque — a noticeable bump over the base model. Interestingly, unlike Nissan’s new base model Z, the NISMO-spec will not be offered with a manual transmission option. The changes to the NISMO-spec model continue inside the car as well. Trimmed in a combination of black leather and Alcantara that come contrasted via red accent stitching, the cabin now boasts elements including Recaro sport seats, a NISMO-specific instrument display, and a sport steering wheel that maintains the NISMO tradition of sporting a red stripe at 12 o’clock. 

2024 Nissan Z NISMO 3
Photo: Nissan

Offered in five livery options, the 2024 Nissan Z NISMO is slated for a release this Fall. And while pricing has yet to be revealed, we anticipate a roughly $20,000 premium over the approximately $40,000 Z base model.