It’s been over a decade now since Nissan introduced the 370Z. Though it was a thorough update over the outgoing 350Z, it was left to linger over the years, with a few mild refreshes making a meagre attempt at catching car buyers’ attention.
The intervening years have seen the sports coupe segment change dramatically. The retro-styled Ford Mustang and Challenger were already on the market, with the Camaro joining a year later to reignite the pony car arms-race. Toyota and Subaru teamed up to launch the BRZ/86 (nee FR-S) duo, offering reliable, drift-ready vehicles at entry-level prices. Toyota also paired up with BMW to reintroduce the Supra and Z4 badges, respectively. Hell, even Hyundai was able to launch (and, subsequently, bury) the Genesis coupe.
None of this is to say that Nissan sat idle while all this occurred. It’s just that their changes were… a little less forward-facing. Tough, to be fair, having a CEO smuggle out of the country in a music case is a serious flex of its own.
Finally, however, a new Z-car from the Yokohama-based company is on its way. For real this time, though. At least real enough that Nissan has started dropping teasers to suggest that they’ve been working on something. A something that’s currently titled the Proto Z, but is sure to be the coming 400Z.
It’s rumoured that the same twin-turbo 3.0L V6 from the Infiniti Q60, worth 400hp will power the new coupe (hence the new name.) While the Infiniti comes equipped with AWD, the 400Z will likely stick to its rear-drive roots. Of great importance is the inclusion of three pedals and a six-speed manual transmission.
The Nissan Proto Z Teases the Coming 400Z
Styling seems to harken back to Fairlady’s of old, with the 300ZX’s backend suggested as influencing the new model. Teaser images show a silhouette carrying a fastback-style hatch featured on both the 350Z and 370Z.
The biggest changes should come from the inside, where Nissan can finally update their new-in-2008 interior with something a little more contemporary. Expect a full infotainment unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Modern safety features are also sure to find their way in, probably included in package upgrades.
Times are tough for Nissan, and coming out against stacked competition won’t be easy. Relying on an engine on an already-available (and underwhelming) car doesn’t inspire confidence. Whispers of a mid-$40k price tag will narrow its appeal, too. Unless Nissan really knocks it out of the park, this may be the Fairlady’s last hurrah.
