The era of the pure, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe is facing extinction, but Nissan is fighting back. After testing the Japanese-market Fairlady Z Version ST on the legendary Hakone Turnpike, the verdict is clear: the new Z is a refined, capable, and much-needed “heartbeat” car that is finally making its way to European shores.
A Strategic Shift for Nissan
This move is more than just a product launch; it is a strategic play. Nissan is currently navigating a challenging period marked by significant financial losses and a restructuring plan known as Re:Nissan.
By bringing the Z to Europe, Nissan is pursuing a dual-track strategy:
1. The Electric Offensive: Using the high sales of electric models like the Leaf, Micra, and Juke to create “CO2 emissions headroom.”
2. The Enthusiast Connection: Utilizing that headroom to import a limited number of high-performance internal combustion engines (ICE) to satisfy driving purists.
Performance: From “Rambo” to “Ethan Hunt”
The most significant change lies under the hood. Nissan has moved away from the raw, naturally aspirated 3.7-litre V6 of the previous 370Z generation, replacing it with a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6.
While the old engine was described as “brawny and ballistic,” the new powerplant is characterized by its sophistication. It delivers a potent 399bhp and 475Nm of torque, but it does so with much greater civility.
- Refinement: On highways, the engine is quiet and smooth, making long-distance cruising much more viable than its predecessor.
- Responsiveness: Despite the addition of turbochargers, the throttle remains crisp. The tested model features a nine-speed automatic transmission that is both smooth in city traffic and incredibly rapid when a “kick-down” is required for overtaking.
- Handling: The Z maintains its athletic DNA. With a mechanical limited-slip differential, the car manages power delivery to the rear wheels more effectively than previous models, allowing for confident cornering without the unruly unpredictability of the past.
Interior and Driver Experience
The cockpit is a blend of nostalgia and modernization. While the layout feels familiar to long-time fans—featuring recognizable circular air vents and switchgear—the technology has been brought into the current era.
The Good
- Build Quality: The interior feels well-constructed and premium.
- Driving Dynamics: The steering is accurate and measured, providing plenty of feedback without being overly taxing.
- Connectivity: A large touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay makes navigation effortless.
The Compromises
- Ergonomics: The steering wheel lacks sufficient reach adjustment for all drivers, and the windscreen header rail can feel uncomfortably close to the driver.
- Visibility: The car suffers from significant blind spots, particularly when checking over the left shoulder.
- Digital Interface: While the digital driver’s display is functional, it lacks visual flair; switching to “Sport” mode adds gauges but doesn’t change the overall aesthetic of the interface.
Technical Specifications (Nissan Z ST)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 |
| Power/Torque | 399bhp / 475Nm |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic, RWD |
| 0-62mph | 4.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155mph (limited) |
| Estimated Price | £62,000 |
The Bottom Line: The new Nissan Z is a sophisticated evolution of a classic formula. It trades raw, unbridled aggression for a more usable, refined performance that makes it a legitimate contender in the shrinking market of enthusiast coupes.
