What is it?
The seventh-generation Z (RZ34) is built on a heavily revised version of the previous 370Z platform with new front and rear subframes and a styling brief that openly references the 240Z and 300ZX. Power comes from the VR30DDTT 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6, shared with Infiniti's Q60 Red Sport, producing 298 kW and 475 Nm in Sport and GT trim. The Nismo flagship lifts output to 309 kW and 520 Nm. Three grades, rear-wheel drive, mechanical limited-slip differential standard, six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic on Sport and GT, auto-only on Nismo.
The lineup runs from Sport (6MT or 9AT) at $79,800 plus on-roads, through to Nismo (9AT) at $107,800 plus on-roads. Warranty cover sits at 5 years, unlimited km.
Interior and Technology
Cheapest way to buy a brand-new twin-turbo V6 rear-drive sports coupe with a manual gearbox in Australia. Mechanical limited-slip differential standard across the range, no electronic compromise. Retro-modern interior with three analogue dash-top pods (turbo boost, turbo speed, battery voltage).
Platform underneath dates back to the 370Z, ride is firm at low speeds. Nismo flagship is automatic only with no manual option. ANCAP unrated. 10.8 L/100 km combined on the auto, premium fuel required.
Should you buy the Z?
Reasons to buy
- Cheapest way to buy a brand-new twin-turbo V6 rear-drive sports coupe with a manual gearbox in Australia. Mechanical limited-slip differential standard across the range, no electronic compromise. Retro-modern interior with three analogue dash-top pods (turbo boost, turbo speed, battery voltage).
- Warranty: 5 years, unlimited km.
Reasons to wait
- Platform underneath dates back to the 370Z, ride is firm at low speeds. Nismo flagship is automatic only with no manual option. ANCAP unrated. 10.8 L/100 km combined on the auto, premium fuel required.
- You want AWD all-weather grip (Golf R, GR Corolla, WRX), V8 over V6 (Mustang GT), or a newer chassis (the Z's underpinnings date back to the 370Z).
- Sport on the manual loses adaptive cruise, the trade-off for the third pedal. If you want the Nismo's outright pace you have to commit to the automatic. The GT is the compromise grade that nobody really needs.
- Top trim climbs to $107,800 plus on-roads.
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