Nissan 370Z Review

Of the millions of Japanese cars produced for North America in the past half-century, most are memorable only through their sheer numbers. A small group, however -- including the Nissan Z -- have achieved true icon status. A sports car lauded for its high performance and strong value, the Nissan Z proved that Japan could make more than just fuel-sipping econoboxes. The Nissan 370Z, representing the Z's sixth generation, continues this tradition, by combining thrilling performance, sculpted styling and an improved interior layout that betters its predecessor.

Compared to the former 350Z, the Nissan 370Z offers a larger and more powerful 3.7-liter V6, a redesigned suspension with a shorter wheelbase, and upgraded interior design. Unlike Z progressions of the past, the 370Z is actually a bit smaller and lighter than the 350Z, making it faster, nimbler and more polished. There's even an actual glovebox and a more usable cargo area.

Though Nissan's 370Z is still not perfect -- the larger engine is prone to unwelcome roughness at high rpm, and outward visibility is poor -- it is certainly a better all-around car and a fitting progression of the Z's heritage. This is one sports car that deserves a serious look.

Current Nissan 370Z
The Nissan 370Z is available as a hatchback coupe or a roadster (convertible). The coupe offers three trims: base, Touring and Nismo. The roadster comes in base and Touring. Each comes with the most powerful Z-car engine ever, a 3.7-liter V6 that cranks out 332 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic.

Base models feature 18-inch wheels, automatic climate control, keyless ignition/entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a CD stereo with steering wheel controls. Touring models add leather and faux suede upholstery, power heated seats, Bluetooth, and a Bose audio system with a six-disc CD/MP3 changer and satellite radio.

The track-focused 370Z Nismo includes a performance-tuned V6 (350 hp), 19-inch forged aluminum wheels and high-performance tires, a limited-slip rear differential, stiffer suspension tuning, upgraded brakes, unique front and rear fascias, a larger rear wing and special Nismo interior trim details. If that's too much, one could just opt for the available Sport package (also available on the roadster) which adds larger wheels and tires, spoilers, a limited-slip differential, upgraded brakes and a rev-matching "SynchroRev" feature for manual-transmission-equipped cars. An optional navigation system is also available on Touring models.

Once underway, it's easy to maximize the 370's sharp performance. The high-winding V6 is gutsy, though you'll know you're approaching the 7,500 rpm redline when the engine starts to sound and feel coarse. The 370's tenacious grip and sharp reflexes make it the best-handling Z yet, and its ride quality is also more civilized than the 350. It's the better choice for commutes and long drives, although it transmits an extraordinary amount of road noise, which can grow tiresome on such journeys.

Enthusiasts and novice stick-shift drivers alike will appreciate the optional SynchroRev rev-matching feature, which ensures super-smooth gearchanges by automatically matching engine speed to wheel speed. The quick-shifting seven-speed automatic will also likely impress buyers.

Despite its all-around competence and slew of strengths, the Nissan 370Z's less practical sports car attributes limit its daily usefulness. There's only room for two passengers of course, and its cargo area design limits visibility and utility despite a space-saving rear strut brace. If you need more room for people and their stuff, other "2+2" sport coupes might serve you better. But for those who prize speed over space, it's hard to beat the performance heritage of the Nissan 370Z.

Used Nissan 370Z Models
The 370Z debuted for the 2009 model year and was only available as a coupe. The Nismo Z was a late model year addition. Shoppers interested in the previous-generation Z should read our Nissan 350Z review.