The Nissan Z has always been a symbol of accessible sports car thrills, and the Nissan Z Nismo takes that legacy to a new level. While many reviews focus on track performance or spirited canyon runs, we wanted to explore a different angle: How does the enhanced, track-tuned Nissan Z Nismo fare in everyday driving and even a road trip? We got our hands on a loaner just in time for a drive up the California coast to Santa Barbara, a journey that mixed highway cruising with some engaging mountain roads.
The result? The Nissan Z Nismo isn’t just a track weapon; it’s a surprisingly versatile and rewarding sports car for real-world driving. And yes, it even managed a respectable 25 mpg despite some enthusiastic driving through winding roads. It’s hard to resist pushing a car like this, and the Nismo Z delivers the exhilarating experience you expect.
Nissan Z Nismo front quarter view on a paved road, highlighting its aggressive styling and sporty stance
Upgrades Under the Hood: Power and Precision
Nissan’s Nismo division didn’t just add badges and body kits. They went deep under the skin of the Z to create a truly enhanced performance machine. The engine receives a boost, now producing 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This increase comes from faster-spinning turbochargers and improved cooling. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Nissan GT-R, the Z Nismo incorporates an independent spark controller for more precise ignition. The outcome is a powerplant that is incredibly responsive, delivering torque right when you need it for exhilarating acceleration.
Nissan Z Nismo engine bay showcasing the upgraded engine components and performance enhancements
Nissan Z Nismo rear three quarter view showing taillights and Nismo badging, emphasizing its sporty design
Nissan Z Nismo front view highlighting the distinctive Nismo front fascia and aerodynamic elements
Driving Modes and Transmission: Tuned for Every Scenario
The Nissan Z Nismo features distinct driving modes that tailor the car’s character to different driving situations. In “Normal” mode, it’s surprisingly docile, feeling similar to the Z Performance for everyday driving. Switch to “Sport” mode, and the Nismo Z’s true personality begins to emerge, offering a more engaging and responsive driving experience perfect for spirited road trips. For maximum performance, “Sport+” mode, exclusive to the Nismo, sharpens everything – shifting, acceleration, and overall feel – for intense driving scenarios.
While paddle shifters offer gear control, some drivers might desire larger, more tactile paddles. However, the 9-speed automatic transmission itself is a significant upgrade. Enhanced with performance software and stronger clutches, it delivers lightning-fast and precise shifts, making it a highly capable transmission for a performance car. While a manual transmission option would be welcomed by some enthusiasts, the current automatic is exceptionally well-tuned for the Nismo’s performance focus.
Nissan Z Nismo interior view showing the steering wheel with paddle shifters and driver-focused cockpit
Track-Ready Suspension: Stiff but Composed
The Nissan Z Nismo’s suspension is where the track focus truly shines. Nissan has stiffened virtually every aspect of the chassis and suspension. Numerous structural and suspension components have been lightened, while structural bracing and reinforced steel around the steering mount enhance rigidity. Thicker suspension component mounts, larger sway bars, stiffer bushings, and revised spring rates with heftier shocks are all part of the Nismo upgrades.
Braking is also significantly improved with large Akebono four-piston front brakes that offer incredible stopping power and enhanced pedal feel. Lightweight RAYS forged wheels and Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tires complete the package, ensuring maximum grip and responsiveness.
This track-oriented setup does result in a firmer ride. While the Nissan Z Nismo tracks incredibly straight and handles corners with precision, the ride can be jarring on rougher roads. If comfort is a top priority, other Z models or even competitors might offer a smoother experience.
Nissan Z Nismo side profile showcasing its sporty silhouette, wheels, and brake calipers
Interior: Functional and Focused
The interior of the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo prioritizes function over outright luxury. It features supportive, stiff driving seats, the classic Nissan Z triple gauge cluster, and an infotainment screen. While some might prefer the seats from the Z Performance model, the Nismo seats still offer good comfort, even for longer drives, and are arguably more comfortable than some competitors’ offerings. Space inside is snug, particularly for larger drivers, and storage is limited, typical of a sports car. Trunk space is sufficient for a weekend trip for two, but not much more.
Nissan Z Nismo interior detail of the seats and dashboard, emphasizing the sporty and functional design
Nissan Z Nismo interior view from the rear seats area, showing the compact cabin space
Road Trip Ready? Yes, With the Right Mindset
With a price tag starting around $68,000, the Nissan Z Nismo commands a significant premium over the standard Z. The critical question is: Is it worth the extra cost? If you value track-ready performance and a truly special driving experience, the answer is a resounding yes.
Even on a highway cruise, the Nissan Z Nismo feels special. It’s more than just the sum of its upgraded parts; it’s a car that evokes a sense of excitement and engagement, even in mundane traffic. Its striking styling turns heads, and on twisty roads, it’s nothing short of exhilarating. The steering feel is exceptional, rivaling even cars like the Lotus Emira in terms of driver feedback.
The Nissan Z Nismo embodies what a Nismo-badged vehicle should be: a sharper, faster, and more aggressive version of the base car. It succeeds in delivering a thrilling driving experience that’s enjoyable both on the track and, surprisingly, on a road trip. It’s a testament to Nissan’s commitment to performance and a worthy addition to the Z legacy.
