The Nissan Z Nismo has carved a niche for itself, celebrated for its track prowess and exhilarating performance on challenging mountain roads. While many reviews focus on its capabilities in aggressive driving scenarios, few explore its everyday usability and road-trip comfort. This review delves into the Nissan Z NISMO’s performance beyond the racetrack, assessing its road-trip viability and daily driving appeal.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓ Increased Horsepower and Torque | ☓ Premium Price Point |
| ✓ Exceptional and Responsive Handling | ☓ Automatic Transmission Only |
| ✓ Surprisingly Good Fuel Efficiency | ☓ Limited Interior Space |
Road Trip Ready? Nissan Z NISMO on the Open Highway
Recently, I had the opportunity to test the Nissan Z NISMO not just on demanding circuits, but also on a longer road trip to Santa Barbara, California, a journey of just over 100 miles from home. Opting for the scenic Pacific Coast Highway over the faster freeways, the trip transformed into a half-day adventure, perfectly suited to assess the Nissan Z NISMO’s grand touring potential.
The Nissan Z NISMO not only performed admirably on this journey but also delivered an impressive 25 mpg fuel economy, even with spirited driving through canyon roads bordering the highway. It’s hard to resist pushing a car like this, and the Z NISMO delivered the same thrilling experience I remembered, effortlessly blending fun and extreme driving through every curve.
Image of Nissan Z Nismo front quarter view driving on a scenic coastal highway, showcasing its road trip capability.
Image showcasing the Nissan Z Nismo’s side profile, emphasizing its sporty silhouette against a backdrop of a sunny highway.
Image of Nissan Z Nismo rear view driving along a winding road, highlighting its taillights and sporty rear design.
NISMO Enhancements: Power and Performance Upgrades
The Nissan Z NISMO’s exceptional performance is no accident; Nissan has significantly enhanced this model to earn its NISMO badge. A notable 20 horsepower and 34 lb-ft of torque increase elevates the total output to 420 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. This power boost makes the Nissan Z NISMO a strong contender in its sports car class.
The performance enhancements extend beyond just engine tuning. Faster-spooling turbochargers and improved cooling systems contribute to the increased power. Drawing technology from its legendary GT-R sibling, the Nissan Z NISMO features an independent spark controller for more precise ignition timing. These upgrades result in a more responsive engine that delivers torque precisely when needed, enhancing the driving experience significantly.
Image highlighting the Nissan Z Nismo engine bay, showcasing the enhanced powerplant and performance components.
The Nissan Z NISMO offers distinct driving modes, each with a unique character. In Normal mode, the driving experience is subtly different from the Z Performance, suitable for everyday commutes. Sport mode unlocks the true NISMO spirit, ideal for engaging drives and even comfortable enough for extended road trips. For maximum performance, Sport + mode sharpens the shifting, acceleration, and overall vehicle dynamics for a more intense experience, a feature exclusive to the NISMO trim.
While paddle shifters offer a rewarding gear selection experience, some drivers might desire larger, more tactile paddles. However, the 9-speed automatic transmission itself is significantly upgraded with beefier components and software enhancements. Improved clutch performance and refined software result in faster, more precise shifts, making this transmission a notable improvement over other Z models.
The absence of a manual transmission option might disappoint purists. However, considering the performance and enhanced automatic transmission, it’s a trade-off that prioritizes speed and broader appeal.
Image of Nissan Z Nismo interior, focusing on the steering wheel and paddle shifters, emphasizing the driver-centric cockpit.
Track-Focused Suspension: Stiff and Precise
The Nissan Z NISMO’s suspension is meticulously tuned for track performance, with extensive stiffening and lightening of numerous components. Structural bracing and reinforced steel around the steering mount enhance chassis rigidity. Upgraded suspension component mounts, thicker sway bars, stiffer bushings, and revised spring rates are all part of the comprehensive suspension overhaul.
Braking performance is significantly enhanced with large Akebono four-piston front brakes, providing exceptional stopping power and improved pedal feel. The Nissan Z NISMO is also equipped with lightweight RAYS forged wheels and Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tires, further contributing to its track-ready handling.
While the track-oriented suspension delivers exceptional handling and precision, it does result in a firmer ride. Drivers seeking a more compliant ride might consider other Z models or competitors like the Mustang or Corvette. The Nissan Z NISMO prioritizes performance feel and direct feedback, which, while excellent for spirited driving, can be less forgiving on rougher road surfaces.
Image showcasing Nissan Z Nismo wheel and Akebono brake caliper, highlighting the performance braking and wheel components.
Interior: Functional and Driver-Focused
The interior of the 2024 Nissan Z NISMO is functional and driver-focused, prioritizing the driving experience over opulent luxury. It features supportive NISMO-specific seats, the signature triple gauge cluster on the dashboard, and a central infotainment screen. While the seats are firmer than those in the Z Performance model, they still offer adequate comfort, even for longer drives, and are arguably more comfortable than rivals like the Toyota Supra.
Space inside the Nissan Z NISMO is limited, particularly for larger drivers who might find shoulder room and ingress/egress a bit tight. Storage is also minimal, with small storage nooks and a trunk that is adequate for weekend luggage for two, or perhaps a set of golf clubs. However, this is typical for sports cars, and the focus remains on the driving experience rather than practicality. For those needing more space, the Ford Mustang GT offers a significantly more spacious interior.
Image of Nissan Z Nismo interior, focusing on the dashboard, infotainment screen, and NISMO seats, illustrating the cockpit layout.
Verdict: A True NISMO Experience
With a price tag around $68,000, the Nissan Z NISMO represents a significant premium over the standard Nissan Z. The question then becomes: is the Nissan Z NISMO worth the extra cost? If you value track-focused performance, enhanced driving dynamics, and a truly special driving experience, then the answer is a resounding yes.
Even during everyday driving, the Nissan Z NISMO feels special and engaging. Its striking styling turns heads, and its handling prowess is evident in every corner. Compared to other sports cars in its class, the Nissan Z NISMO offers exceptional steering feel, rivaling even the Lotus Emira in driver feedback and engagement.
The Nissan Z NISMO embodies what a NISMO-badged vehicle should be: faster, sharper, and more exhilarating than its base model. Nissan has successfully elevated the Z into a true performance machine. And yes, it can even handle a road trip with style and surprising comfort, making it a versatile and thrilling sports car.
