When Nissan launched the new Z a couple of years ago, the verdict was mostly positive. It had the right engine, the right silhouette, and a manual gearbox. But there was one thing that split opinion right down the middle. That grille. The big rectangular opening was efficient, sure, but it looked like a furnace vent.
Well, it seems Nissan actually reads the comments section. Revealed at the Tokyo Auto Salon, the updated 2027 Nissan Z (or Fairlady Z in its home market) has arrived with a comprehensive facelift that fixes the styling and addresses the biggest complaint about the Nismo version.
The G-Nose Returns
The most obvious change is the face. Nissan has ditched the gaping rectangular grille in favour of the split bumper design that was previously only available on the "Customised Edition" in Japan. It features a body-coloured crossbar that splits the intake, clearly inspired by the legendary Fairlady 240ZG "G-nose" from the 1970s.
It transforms the look of the car. It looks wider, lower, and significantly more premium.
To match the retro nose, there is a new colour called Unryu Green (Cloud Dragon Green). It is a deep metallic shade that mimics the old Grand Prix Green from the S30 generation. When paired with the new 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, it gives the Z a classic "gentleman driver" aesthetic that is a nice departure from the usual bright yellows and reds.
The Nismo Gets a Stick
This is the big one. When the Z Nismo launched, it was a proper track weapon, but it had one fatal flaw for purists. It was automatic only. Nissan engineers argued that the nine-speed auto was faster, which is true, but it missed the point of a car like this.
For 2027, they have relented. You can now spec the Z Nismo with a six-speed manual transmission.
It isn't just a swap job either. The manual Nismo gets the same stiffer chassis, improved cooling, and Recaro seats as the automatic version. It effectively makes it the ultimate specification Z. The fast bits from the Nismo mixed with the engagement of a clutch pedal.
Under the Metal
The 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 carries over unchanged, producing 400 bhp in the standard car and 420 bhp in the Nismo. However, the suspension has seen some work.
The engineers have swapped in new monotube shock absorbers with larger pistons and retuned the springs. The goal is to make the car settle faster over mid-corner bumps, addressing the slight "floatiness" that some drivers felt in the pre-facelift model.
The Nismo also raids the parts bin of its big brother. It now features larger brake rotors derived directly from the R35 GT-R. Since the GT-R is finally retiring, it is nice to see its hardware living on.
Interior and Tech
Inside, the changes are minimal but effective. There is a new "Persimmon Orange" interior option that looks a lot like tan leather. It pairs perfectly with the green exterior. Nissan has also added an SOS call button, which is a regulatory requirement these days, and tweaked the active noise cancellation to make the cabin a bit more civilised on the highway.
Will We See It in the UAE?
The Z has a cult following in the Middle East, so we expect the 2027 model to land in UAE showrooms late next year. The real question is whether the dealers will bring the manual Nismo, since our market is biased towards automatics.
|
Feature |
Specification |
|
Engine |
3.0-Litre Twin-Turbo V6 |
|
Power |
400 bhp (Standard) / 420 bhp (Nismo) |
|
Transmission |
6-Speed Manual / 9-Speed Auto |
|
Key Updates |
"G-Nose" Grille, Unryu Green Paint, GT-R Brakes (Nismo) |
|
Launch Date |
Late 2026 (Expected) |
FAQs
Does the 2027 Nissan Z have a new engine?
No. It retains the VR30DDTT 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6. It is a proven unit that produces 400 bhp in the standard car and 420 bhp in the Nismo.
Is the manual transmission available on the Nismo?
Yes. For the 2027 model year, Nissan has confirmed that the high-performance Z Nismo will be available with a six-speed manual gearbox, alongside the nine-speed automatic.
What is the new green colour called?
The new colour is called Unryu Green. It is a heritage-inspired shade meant to evoke the Grand Prix Green used on the original 240Z.
When will the 2027 Nissan Z arrive in the UAE?
While no official local date has been set, the car is expected to launch globally in late 2026. Expect to see it in UAE showrooms shortly after as a 2027 model.
What are the suspension changes?
The 2027 Z features new monotube shock absorbers with larger pistons. This update is designed to improve ride compliance and handling precision, addressing complaints about the previous model's damping.
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