2024 Nissan Z Performance A/T

HIGHS
No shortage of horsepower, distractingly-handsome design, long live the Z.
LOWS
Performance Z NISMO doesn't get the six-speed manual, heavier than the last Z car, too much road noise.
VERDICT
Using subtle design cues to celebrate Z cars of the past, the new Z packs more power and driving satisfaction than ever.
Overview
The Nissan Z is a soulful sports coupe with an incredible history of serving up affordable and fun-to-drive two-doors since 1969. Using bits and pieces of nostalgia, like the quarter-panel insignia from the 240Z and a pair of dramatic LED taillights that mimic the style of the 300ZX of the 1990s, the new Z puts power and driving entertainment at the forefront. Although it borrows its 400-hp twin-turbo V-6 engine from the Infiniti Q50 Red Sport, the Z can be had with either a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission. That is, unless you want the NISMO Z treatment, which grants 420 horsepower and other performance upgrades but comes exclusively with a nine-speed automatic. While the new Z retains many of its joints and bones from the previous-generation 370Z, its interior is a richer experience with better seats, a wider infotainment screen, and a telescoping steering wheel. It may not be as exciting to hammer as the Toyota Supra, but the Z still offers driving thrills, and we’re thankful to have it back in the sports-car segment.