NEW NISSAN Z ARRIVES IN AUSTRALIA

The first examples of the all-new Nissan Z sports car arrived in Australia in early August, ahead of the official launch and initial customer deliveries.

Nissan Australia gathered examples of all previous generations – 240Z, 260Z, 280ZX, 300ZX, 350Z and 370Z - for a photoshoot and drive event with a ‘Proto Spec’ version of the new model in central Sydney, which was its first appearance on Australian roads.

“This might be the first example of the all-new Z we see on local roads, but we’ll soon be seeing many more, with a new era of Z about to begin,” said Nissan Australia Managing Director, Adam Paterson.

“This is a proud moment. Few models can claim the performance lineage of the Z, and to be able to celebrate it right here in Australia, on the eve of a new dawn of performance for the brand, is special.”

The first all-new Z car since the 370Z from 2008, the new Nissan Z has no numbered prefix in its name, as per the previous six generations, due to the fact that the engine in the new version is smaller, at 3.0 litres, instead of the 370Z's 3.7 litres, but thanks to twin turbochargers, it’s more powerful. Listed maximums of 298kW and 475Nm are significantly more than the 370Z’s 245kW and 363Nm in standard form (although the NISMO version did produce 253kW and 371Nm).

In addition to being more powerful, the new Nissan Z offers improved acceleration and better power-to-weight ratio than its predecessor, with the choice of a six-speed manual or nine-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission. The former comes with a carbon fibre driveshaft and rev-matching function, while the latter adds launch control.

Other standard features on the Nissan Z for Australia include three driving modes, a leather-accented interior, customisable 12.3-inch TFT instrument display, 8.0-inch centre console touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility.