This is the 2023 Nissan Z
After a lengthy teaser campaign, Nissan unveils the all-new 2023 Z
More than a decade after the 370Z made its global debut, its successor has finally been revealed. Following a myriad of leaks, teaser images, and a prototype, Nissan finally launched the all-new Z coupe.
No longer sporting a numerical name, the new-generation Z features a retro-inspired look that harks back to its predecessors. First revealed in concept form as the Z Proto, Nissan did not change much when it came to its design.
It has a long hood, short deck design that is reminiscent of the previous Z cars, particularly the first generation 240Z (aka S30Z). The front fascia features a unique set of LED headlights and a huge grille that has become a signature look to the Nissan Z. Serving as a throwback to the 300ZX are the taillights and defined shoulder lines that give the car a muscular appearance.
Other notable features of the all-new Z include a subtle rear spoiler, dual exhaust pipes, and 18-inch wheels (can be upgraded to 19-inch RAYS alloy wheels). There's also a black aero kit for improved downforce and two-tone exterior paint available. We're also glad to see the signature "Z" badge on the C-pillar made it into production as well.
Like the exterior, the 2023 Z's interior looks similar to the Z Proto revealed last year. It gets a digital 12.3-inch instrument display configurable into various modes, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a two-tone cabin finish, power-adjustable sport bucket seats, and an 8-speaker Bose sound system.
Just like the Z cars before it, the 2023 Z comes with three analog gauges on the center dash that displays boost, turbo speed, and battery voltage, and a Z-logo on the steering wheel.
Under the hood, the all-new Z is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6. It makes 400 PS at 6400 rpm along with 474 Nm of torque at 1600 – 5600 rpm. Thanks to the increase in power, Nissan claims the 2023 Z will deliver a “sharp yet smooth response to the driver's input”.
Nissan was able to do this through the use of small diameter turbochargers together with a turbo speed sensor to ensure the turbos are fully utilized. The engine also benefits from electronic variable valve timing (e-VVT) intake system that ensures optimum response at any speed.
In true Z fashion, it is available with a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard. With the Z Performance pack, the manual gearbox gets launch assist control, a carbon-fiber driveshaft, and a Synchro Rev Match that can mimic 'heel and toe' shifting. Prefer a self-shifting Nissan Z? The all-new two-door is also available with a new 9-speed automatic unit. It comes with aluminum paddle shifters and a launch control assist as standard.
Despite being based on an upgraded 370Z chassis, Nissan took the time to upgrade the Z's handling and suspension. Both the front and rear dampers use a new monotube shock absorber design with a larger diameter than the outgoing 370Z. The result is an approximately 20% reduction in dampening force to help minimize impact shock over uneven surfaces, enhance road-following performance, and improve handling stability.
The front double-wishbone aluminum suspension features new geometry with an increased caster angle to improves straight-line stability. A two-point front strut tower brace is standard, while the rear independent multi-link aluminum suspension has also been reconfigured with new settings.
Nissan has yet to reveal its pricing for the US market. However, they did say that it will go on sale sometime in 2022 and will be sold as a 2023 model year. Given that the US market will have to wait a little while longer, it looks like the Philippine market will be stuck with the 370Z for a couple of years.
Still, we cannot wait for Nissan Philippines Inc. to offer the all-new Z here in the country.
