Nissan has done a good job of keeping the upgraded Z under wraps. We’ve only seen a couple of test vehicles, but thanks to a NissanZClub enthusiast, we now have another look at what could be a new Nismo model.
We can thank Sean in Arizona in particular for this glimpse. He photographed two prototypes, getting a good look from both the side and back. Fortunately, the side views include some of the front, which we believe will be where a significant departure from the standard Z occurs. We’re talking about Nissan’s split grille, which debuted on the Fairlady Z Customized Proto a little more than a year ago. More importantly, the automaker announced in early January that the split grille will go into production later this year as a dealer-installed option for Japan-spec cars.
In our previous Z spy photo session, we saw prototypes with and without heavy camouflage, but we could see some kind of strip or panel across the top of the grille in both cases. While this could be a false panel, Nissan’s recent announcement of the split grille in Japan makes it even more likely that it will be a distinctive Nismo feature for the US.
When it comes to Nismo, there’s more going on than just a new retro-inspired nose. The upgraded Z should come with a modest body kit, and we can see what appear to be large side sills mounted between the wheels in these new images. When you look behind the wheels, you’ll notice noticeably larger brake rotors in front. Other test vehicles with NACA-style vents in hood camouflage have been seen, though they are not visible here.
At this point, we haven’t heard anything about engine changes in the rumour mill. It’s safe to assume that the 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine will be boosted. The standard Z sends power to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission.
Similarly, it’s difficult to predict when this car will be revealed. There hasn’t been much buzz from our usual sources, but with the Japanese-spec Z getting the split grille option later this year, seeing something for the US market in the second half of 2023 is a real possibility.
