2022 Nissan Z: All You Need to Know
UPDATE: As Nissan’s iconic sports car celebrates 50 years, we see the redesigned Z in person in Japan. Read all about the new Nissan Z Proto Concept, which previews the upcoming Nissan 400Z, right here. And take a look at a ton of photos of this intriguing concept.
After more than a decade on the market, the Nissan 370Z is finally retiring. In its place comes the 400Z. Or at least that’s what we expect Nissan to christen the new Z. Unlike today’s sports car, the upcoming 2022 Z’s digits are not expected to represent the displacement of its engine but instead its outright horsepower.
Rest assured, purists; the new Z won’t abandon its history of packing six cylinders under its hood. Moreover, it will retain the option of a third pedal, ensuring that driving enthusiasts can still enjoy a manual transmission.
Powertrain and Performance
The upcoming 400Z is anticipated to pack a formidable 400 horsepower, ensuring it has the power needed to compete with rivals such as the Toyota Supra and the Porsche 718 Cayman sports coupes. The new Z is expected to rely on a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine for optimal performance.
This engine is anticipated to be derived from the Infiniti Q50 and Q60 Red Sport 400 models, and it will likely pair with either a seven-speed automatic transmission or a traditional manual gearbox. Consequently, this dedication to driving pleasure will allow power to be sent exclusively to the coupe’s rear wheels.
Looks and Styling
The styling of the new Z is expected to draw heavily from its predecessors. Buyers can look forward to retro cues that evoke the charm of the original Datsun 240Z, including its round headlights, long hood, and stubby rear end. The car’s badging will also embrace an old-school font, maintaining a connection to its rich heritage.
Moreover, the interior is expected to blend modern technology with nostalgic design elements. For instance, Nissan is likely to fit the car with a trio of auxiliary gauges atop the dashboard, ensuring a driver-focused experience.
On-Sale Date and Price
We expect the 2022 Nissan Z to reach dealerships in the United States before the end of 2022. While the new Z will initially be available only as a coupe, with potential plans for a convertible body style a year or two later, the anticipation surrounding its release is palpable.
However, it is important to note that the price of the new Z is expected to increase significantly from that of the 2020 model, which started at $31,015. In fact, estimates suggest that the new Z will bridge the pricing gap between the four- and six-cylinder Supra models, which start at $43,985 and $51,985, respectively. Therefore, prospective buyers should be prepared to budget upwards of $45,000 to get behind the wheel of an entry-level 2022 Nissan Z.