Nissan is giving the Z its most meaningful update since the current generation returned, and the headline change is the one enthusiasts have been asking for all along. For 2027, the Z NISMO finally gets a manual transmission, adding a proper third-pedal option to the sharpest version of Nissan’s modern sports car. That alone changes the conversation around the car, because while the automatic-only NISMO already had the pace and attitude, it never fully checked the emotional box that many diehard Z fans wanted.
What makes this move more interesting is that Nissan did not simply pull the same six-speed from the standard Z and call it a day. The NISMO team reportedly developed a version tailored specifically for the range-topping model, complete with an upgraded clutch, shorter throws, and revised tuning for the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 to sharpen throttle response and torque delivery. Output stays the same at 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, so this is less about chasing a bigger spec-sheet number and more about making the car feel more alive from behind the wheel. In a performance coupe like this, that matters more than a flashy horsepower bump.
Nissan also borrowed a little hardware from one of its greatest hits. The 2027 Z NISMO inherits GT-R-derived front brake rotors, using a two-piece iron-and-aluminum setup that should improve cooling and trim 19 pounds compared with the outgoing arrangement. That is the kind of upgrade that sounds subtle on paper but can pay off in all the right ways, especially for drivers who actually take their cars to a road course. Nissan also retuned the front suspension and made steering-related revisions, suggesting this refresh was approached with real intent instead of just marketing fluff.
The rest of the Z lineup gets a lighter touch, but there are still a few worthwhile changes. The Z Sport and Performance trims receive a revised front bumper with a prominent Z badge replacing the Nissan emblem, and Nissan says updates to the fascia, grille, and ducting improve cooling while also reducing lift and drag. A new Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic paint joins the palette, and all 2027 Z models gain a revised fuel tank aimed at delivering more consistent fuel supply during high-g cornering. There is even a new fan-cooled wireless phone charger, which feels like a small but useful modern touch for a car that still leans heavily on old-school appeal.
In many ways, this is the update the Z needed. The current car has always had the right ingredients, but the 2027 changes make the lineup feel more complete and more convincing, especially at the top end. Giving the NISMO a manual does not just add a feature. It restores a bit of the spirit that has defined the Z name for generations. Nissan will show the refreshed 2027 Z lineup at the New York auto show next week, with pricing expected closer to its summer launch. On paper, this looks like a smart refresh. In person, it could be the version of the new Z that finally wins over the purists.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
