The new 2024 Nissan Z Nismo has been revealed as a performance-oriented vehicle that attempts to live up to its reputation. However, that reputation has taken a slightly different turn for hard-core enthusiastas as Nissan has confirmed the rumors – the Nismo variant will only come equipped with an automatic transmission.
Visually, just like in our teaser of the new Z Nismo, it flaunts a unique and striking design setting it apart from the ‘normal’ Z. The exterior boasts distinctive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and an imposing rear spoiler. Inspired by the long-nose 240ZG model from Japan, the Z Nismo features a lower, elongated nose that exudes a touch of modernity while still paying homage to the classic Z fascia. To tie the whole look together, a red stripe runs along the bottom edges, connecting the front spoiler, side skirts, and rear bumper. Additionally, 19-inch Rays forged wheels, exclusive to this variant, give the car an aggressive stance, enhanced by a black roof and a grey trim piece along the tops of the windows. The available colors include black, white, silver, red, and an exclusive gray shade.
Step inside, and you’ll notice subtle but impactful changes. The interior showcases a mix of red and black leather and Alcantara Recaro seats, adorned with the Nismo logo. The leather and Alcantara steering wheel adds to the sporty feel, complemented by red trims and a unique start-up animation on the instrument graphics.
Performance is at the core of the Nismo line, and the 2024 Z Nismo doesn’t disappoint. The engine has undergone significant improvements, including an upgraded engine oil cooler, increased boost, and more aggressive timing, resulting in an impressive output of 420 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. These figures mark a 20 horsepower and 34 pound-feet increase from the standard version. Although the automatic transmission is the sole option, Nissan has gone the extra mile to upgrade it with beefier clutches and refined engine and transmission tuning. The nine-speed automatic transmission can now shift nearly 50% faster than its standard counterpart and features a new Sport+ shift mode for sportier downshift tuning. Power is efficiently transferred to the rear wheels via a clutch-type limited-slip differential.
Enhancing the vehicle’s handling and stability, Nissan incorporated several chassis upgrades. The addition of extra bracing at the front and rear contributes to a 2.5% increase in torsional rigidity. The suspension receives stiffer springs, retuned shocks, and new anti-roll bars, further improving the car’s performance and cornering capabilities. Stiffer bushings for both the suspension and the steering rack have been implemented as well. In the braking department, the Z Nismo gets four-piston front calipers and two-piston rears, but with the advantage of 1-inch larger front rotors (15 inches total diameter) and more aggressive brake pad compounds compared to the Z Performance.
Excitingly, the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo will hit showrooms in the fall. Although pricing details have not been officially disclosed, it’s expected to be higher than the Z Performance with the automatic, which starts at $52,085.
With its enhanced power, improved handling, and distinctive styling, the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo is set to make a bold statement in the automotive world, captivating enthusiasts and fans of high-performance sports cars alike.
