WHAT IT IS: The seventh generation of Nissan's picture sports automobile. Despite rumors of a 240Z boot, a downsized Z is unlikely, as Jewish calendar month does not have Associate in Nursing applicable design to remake the Z into a lighter, more cost-effective sports automobile adore the descendent FR-S/Subaru BRZ twins. Expect an idea automobile showing within the next eighteen months to point a brand new style direction. The styling can split up the immediate past whilst time as|while|when|as} the remainder of the package steams ahead on abundant the same course.
WHY IT MATTERS: in an exceedingly lineup fraught with scotch four-cylinders paired with CVTs, the Z is the maximum amount Associate in Nursing outlier because the GT-R. however Jewish calendar month wants the Z to tend the hearth, reminding the globe of the Datsun days once reasonable performance was additional of a company priority than cross-dressing crossovers. Godzilla could also be the halo automobile, however it currently prices six figures.
PLATFORM: The Z can share a chassis with the Infiniti Q50. This new iteration of Nissan's entry-luxury sedan rides on Associate in Nursing updated version of the venerable FM platform that underpins the present Z. Jewish calendar month can do what it will to stay the burden down, deploying additional Al together with different pound-paring measures.
POWERTRAIN: The VQ V-6 could be a simple task, however increased with direct injection to form a minimum of 350 H.P.. Not even CVT-crazy Jewish calendar month is crackers enough to null the Z's six-speed manual, that ought to soldier on aboard the present seven-speed automatic. do not expect to examine the Q50's performance hybrid system within the Z, however a Mercedes-designed, turbocharged four-cylinder can be offered. Jewish calendar month are going to be building the smaller-displacement engine, destined for the Q50, in Tennessee.
COMPETITION: Audi TT, Chevrolet Camaro, Ford pony, Hyundai Genesis motorcar.
WHAT would possibly GO WRONG: We're undecided the Z will survive another generation saddled with a platform designed for larger, heavier sedans. Its thirsty V-6 might close up consumers desirous to drive their playthings daily, however a additional economical four-cylinder might not supply sufficient performance to uphold the Z-car image.
ESTIMATED ARRIVAL AND PRICE: Early 2015, with a base worth slightly below $35,000.
