Nissan unveils the 2022 Nissan Z

19th August 2021, 12:27pm
3 min read
Nissan unveils the 2022 Nissan Z

The long-awaited 2022 Nissan Z has finally been revealed, and it’s a beauty. The Z series goes back to the 1960s, and the latest vehicle isn’t just an exercise in branding. It’s a classic rear-wheel-drive twin-turbo V6 paired with a manual transmission as standard.

Engine

The engine is a VR30DDTT twin-turbocharged V6 you’ll find in high-end Infiniti Q50s and Nissan Skylines. It has 400 bhp and 350 lb-ft of torque at 5600 rpm. This puts it far above the 335-bhp EU Supras, which have a BMW-derived B58 engine.

Manual gearbox

Unlike the Supra, Nissan's upcoming Z will be offered with a six-speed manual gearbox option rather than just an automatic. Nissan will also sell the Z with a nine-speed automatic gearbox and a mechanical limited-slip differential.

The manual gearbox has rev-matching, which the 370Z pioneered in 2008, as well as launch control, which automatically holds the rpm at the optimal level while the clutch is depressed, guaranteeing the quickest possible departure when the clutch is released.

Aesthetics

Compared to its 370Z forebear, the new Z is 142mm longer. It’s 1850mm wide and 1310mm tall, so it’s a bit taller and narrower than the Toyota GR Supra. You get 255/40 R19 front tires and 275/35 R19 rear on the top two trims.

The Nissan Z has a large bonnet, flat top, wraparound screen, and C-pillar motif that all feel very seventies. The nose has a single dramatic opening accompanied by LED headlamps that resemble the 240Z's circulars.

Another throwback to the old Zs is the clean, basic surfacing that ends in a tail that incorporates some 300ZX styling around the taillights. There’s no Alpine A110-style squat here. 

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There are three round auxiliary dials on the upper dash and a nicely restrained centre tunnel for the manual gear lever and handbrake.

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Availability

The Nissan Z, sadly, won’t be available in the UK. The manufacturer blames this on the tight European regulations on emissions. The Z's manual gearbox and non-European engine are likely significant reasons for its failure to meet EU standards.

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Written by Raymond Burrett

Raymond is the quintessential car enthusiast. Motorsports and sports-cars have played a prominent role since a young age. He can now be found tinkering with his Japanese sports cars, at local car meets or out on a track-day.