introduction
The 2026 Nissan Z is the latest expression of an icon, combining the retro appeal and sportiness characteristic of the saga with the technologies and capabilities required by today’s motorsports.
It is presented as a rear-wheel drive coupe, powerful and attractive for those looking for an authentic feel behind the wheel and a traditional design updated for everyday use.
Styles and options
The range includes Sport, Performance and NISMO models, as well as the new Heritage package for those looking for a nod to the classic Z.
Sport is the sporty and accessible basis; The Performance offers upgrades to brakes, amenities and interior luxury; NISMO is the maximum dynamic and aesthetic expression; and the Heritage Edition pays homage to the legendary Z32 with exclusive details.
Drivetrain
All 2026 Nissan Zs come with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine: Sport and Performance versions deliver 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, available with a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic transmission, always with rear-wheel drive.
The NISMO version produces up to 420 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, mated exclusively to an automatic transmission and with additional adjustments to the chassis, brakes, steering and suspension, for a more precise driving feel and an even sportier approach.
Interior style
This latest generation of the Z represents a much-needed advance in interior design and engineering. It feels less claustrophobic than the previous model and offers a driver-focused layout with lots of useful information. The digital instrument cluster is reasonably customizable and while I think it could use a bit of tweaking, the screen is sharp and readable in all lighting conditions.
Even though the Z is so low, getting in and out isn’t too difficult thanks to the generous door openings and relatively unrestricted seats. As with most low-slung coupes, visibility isn’t optimal.
The Z offers acceptable direct rearward visibility, but the blind spot is larger than other coupes and forward visibility is hampered by the low seating position and large windshield pillars, noticeable on a winding road.
The heated seats in my test car were both manually and electrically adjustable and I found them very comfortable.
Nissan’s climate control system provided excellent cabin temperature control even in temperatures above 37°C, and I appreciated the easy adjustment of the vents. The three easy-to-use round dials for controlling the climate system are much appreciated, but are set back slightly under the dashboard and can be difficult to read at first glance.
technology
The instrument panel is 12.3 inches, the center console has a 9-inch or larger touchscreen depending on the version and retains the three classic analogue displays on the dashboard.
The Z equips a multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, wireless charger and Bose audio in higher versions. It comes with a voice assistant (with improved response), configurable instrumentation and customized driving modes.
The Performance has a limited differential, larger brakes and tires with more grip.
Security
It includes blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping and multiple airbags.
Because it’s a sports car, the traction and stability controls can be adjusted or turned off for a purer experience, although it doesn’t have an intermediate sport mode like other rivals.
On the way
The Z’s everyday ride quality is also commendable. The low-profile tires allow plenty of small, hard impacts into the cabin, but larger impacts, at both low and high speeds, are easily absorbed, making the Z ideal for long road trips.
I’m less fond of the noise, or at least the quality of noise, that comes from the Z’s turbo engine. It lacks the refinement of the GR Supra’s turbo engine and at no point does it sound particularly loud when accelerating.
Diploma
This 2026 Z is a worthy successor: fast, striking and with technology that keeps it up to date for the new era. It is ideal for enthusiasts looking for a sports coupe with classic soul and looks, but practicality and modern connectivity.
Price: Starting at $40,940
Consumption: 19-20 MPG city – 24-28 MPG highway