The Nissan Z NISMO Everyone Wanted From Day One Is Finally Coming
Nissan Americas chairman Christian Meunier finally confirms what Z enthusiasts have been screaming out for since day one – a manual transmission Z NISMO is on the way.
Image credit: Nissan
During an interview on the Automotive News Daily Drive podcast, Meunier dropped the news drifting fans were hoping for.
Image credit: Nissan
Previously, the Z NISMO was only available with a 9-speed automatic, despite the standard Nissan Z offering a six-speed manual option. Enthusiasts have been frustrated since the release of the auto-only offering for the flagship model, and Nissan has clearly been listening.
Customer demand drove the decision, with those who favor a little sideways action leading the charge for a proper three-pedal setup.
Image credit: Nissan
The US-spec Z NISMO packs a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 VR30DDTT engine, producing 420 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque – a 20 hp and 34 lb-ft increase over the standard Z.
Currently, the automatic Z NISMO reaches 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds compared to 4.5 seconds for the manual Z Performance. While the manual is unlikely to be quicker (you’ll need to be absolutely rapid with shifting), it’s the return of the stick-shift and clutch pedal that has the fans truly excited.
Image credit: Nissan
Early indications suggest the manual Z NISMO will utilize the same 6-speed manual as the standard Z, but beefed up to handle the NISMO’s increased power output. Expect reworked gear ratios and stronger internals to handle the extra torque.
Given that confirmation just arrived, there’s no official launch timeline just yet. Speculation on the Nissan Z Club forum suggests it could arrive for the 2027 model year, though some are also hopeful for a 2026 launch.
Image credit: Nissan
The current Z NISMO pricing is $64,990 USD, and the manual version is expected to be in a similar range. Factor in the usual dealer markups, and you’ll likely be paying a premium for the privilege.
Right now, the Z sits in rare territory with very few 400+ horsepower two-seater manual options available on the market.
Image credit: Nissan
Toyota’s GR Supra, the Z’s direct competitor, is being discontinued in some markets as production of the model winds down. This creates a perfect opportunity for the Z NISMO to become the leading Japanese offering.
Additionally, the Z has recently become Nissan’s sole remaining sports car, following the final R35 GT-R rolling off the production line last month. No pressure!
If the NISMO falls outside your price range, the standard Z deserves serious consideration. Very few manual rear-wheel-drive cars offer 400 hp stock, let alone with a twin-turbo V6 setup.
Used Z prices have fallen more quickly than anticipated, with base models available for around $35,000-$36,000 and Performance models fetching closer to $40,000-$42,000.
Few modern offerings match its sideways potential, making it one of the ultimate bang-for-your-buck modern two-seaters.
However, if you have the cash to spare, the NISMO might prove to be worth waiting for.
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Bill is a writer and photographer who has been part of the Drifted team since 2015. His work extends to various print and online publications, including Wangan Warriors.
As part of the King of Nations team, he traveled extensively for several years, capturing top-tier international drift events worldwide. His hands-on experience, including rebuilding his own Nissan Silvia S15 drift car, gives him unique insights into drift car building and global drift culture.
When not behind the lens or keyboard, Bill can be found browsing classifieds for his next JDM project or shredding virtual tires on popular simulators like Assetto Corsa, CarX, and Forza.
You can learn more about Bill’s story here or follow his socials on X (formerly Twitter), Flickr, Facebook, and Instagram.
