Iconic. The NISMO name is simply that. Having previously adorned everything from a 370Z to the all conquering GT-R, and been long associated with greatness as Nissan’s in-house performance arm, the sub-brand now puts its moniker on the Z.
As one might expect, that happens to bring with it some changes in both performance and look and feel. The standard 2024 Nissan Z is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V6 (298kW and 475Nm), with the choice of 6-speed manual or 9-speed auto.
The rear-wheel drive sports car features a mechanical limited slip diff, launch control, drive modes in the auto, 19-inch alloy wheels, a 12.3-inch TFT display with multiple modes and even NISMO-specific graphics.
There’s an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with AM/FM/DAB+ radio and Bluetooth audio streaming, all playing through an eight-speaker Bose stereo. USB-A and USB-C ports are provided for charging.
There’s no charging pad and nor are any of the smartphone integrations wireless. To set the Z NISMO apart, its engine start button and the drive mode selection are both red. It’s a nice little touch that’s a nod to the history of the sub-brand.
Heated front seats with leather-accented seat trim feature in the main variants, but disappear in the NISMO version (more on that in a moment). Everything else from the standard model carries over, including keyless entry and start.
Likewise, it gets LED headlights and three gauges sitting above the infotainment screen (another nod to its 300ZX and 240Z roots), providing information on boost pressure, voltage and turbo speed. They do feel like a bit of an afterthought though.
Front and rear parking sensors, intelligent cruise control, predictive forward collision warning and lane departure warning are joined by forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic alert on board.
The Z NISMO increases power to 309kW and torque to 520Nm, and is offered only with a tuned 9-speed automatic with paddle shifters. At this point, the purists, who believe all performance cars must have a manual transmission, have just gagged on their soy latte.
You see, there is no stick shift option for the NISMO version of the Z. But that’s actually okay, because the automatic is exceptionally good. It was already decent, but with a re-tune from the performance gods at NISMO, it’s damn near perfect.
If it isn’t, then it’s genuinely as close to it as the Japanese car maker can get. That’s a big call, we know, but one we’re happy to make, such is the joy that driving this beast in anger brings to its pilot – especially in the exclusive to the NISMO, Sport+ mode.
You just need to pretend the paddle shifts are the same as a manual as you tap your way up and down the transmission. Do that, and you’ll be grinning from ear-to-ear as you dive into a corner, jump on the brakes and power out the other side.
If you’re pushing hard enough, it will feel like it’s hanging on the edge of traction, but never like it’s going to break free. If that doesn’t make you laugh out loud in automotive joy, there’s something wrong with you.
That feeling of being on the precipice but not about to fall over it comes from the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT600 tyres it pinched from the GT-R, which offer a tonne of grip. They’ll essentially stop you from getting fully sideways.
Fun stuff aside, it’s not a bad daily driver either, although you will need to be super-wary of speed humps and steep driveways as there’s no suspension lift kit like you might find in other lowered vehicles.
Riding on 19-inch Rays created specifically for the NISMO variant, this model gets a spanky looking rear spoiler that adds to its aggressive styling, enhanced engine cooling, bigger front brake rotors, and a series of aerodynamic enhancements.
That includes a model-specific front splitter and rear diffuser. NISMO-tuned launch control and active sound control (aka an artificially enhanced exhaust sound and engine note that’s different from the standard Z) are included, along with branded Recaro seats.
The latter means the heated and powered seats we mentioned are removed. Elsewhere, NISMO-specific specific suspension, with stiffer springs and retuned dampers join anti-roll bars that help make the vehicle’s on road balance and body control a standout.
Sure, it’s basic inside, and the infotainment system is pretty average. The exhaust sounds fake, and it’s no high performance BMW or Audi from an overloaded with technology and pretty things perspective.
But it’s not meant to be. It’s a driver’s car – an angry rear-wheel drive sports coupe with two seats (there is an anchor point for a car seat and the ability to shut off the front passenger air bag) that begs to be thrown into corners or punched out of a bend.
It wants to be tamed and you’ll find yourself warm and fuzzy inside when you do. Take heed though, it does wear that iconic nameplate and it will remind you it’s in charge every now and then if you get too cocky and overconfident.
The 2024 Nissan Z NIMSO is offered in three colours, including Diamond Black, Slate Grey or Brillian Silver, with a contrasting black roof on the latter two. It’s backed by a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
Priced at $94,000 plus on-roads or just under $103,000 drive away, you can find out more from your local Nissan dealer or by visiting their website. To see a great range of vehicles, check out OnlyCars.com.au. If you’re keen on one, and need finance, visit CreditOne.
Our test vehicle was provided by Nissan Australia for independent review purposes. Images courtesy of Andrew E Hempsall.
