Over the Nissan Z's roughly 50-year history, the thinking behind the sports car has stayed the same. There's a punchy engine at the front, drive going to the rear, and a driver-oriented interior to help those behind the wheel focus on the act of driving. Despite rumors claiming that the 370Z wouldn't return, there's a 2018 model that features some changes over the previous model, including a new Heritage Edition.
What's New for 2018
The 2018 370Z sees numerous changing that include new exterior details, a new special edition, and changes to the way the coupe performs. On the outside, the 370Z gets darker headlights and taillights, a new blackout rear fascia, available 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and a new Passion Red paint scheme. But the changes for the new model year aren't purely cosmetic, as changes have also been made to the way the Japanese coupe performs.
The 370Z gets new tuning that improves the vehicle's acceleration and torque profile, while coupes that are fitted with a manual transmission get a high-performance clutch from Exedy. Lastly, there's a new Heritage Edition that's offered in two colors – Chicane Yellow or Magnetic Black – and comes with bespoke graphics and yellow interior trim.
Choosing Your Nissan 370Z
Despite changes to the way the 370Z puts down its power, the coupe retains its 3.7-liter V6 engine that makes 332 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. The power goes down through the rear wheels, while consumers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic gearbox.
Consumers looking to get into the most performance-oriented version of the 370Z should explore the range-topping 370Z Nismo model. The vehicle features a Nismo bodykit, Nismo suspension, and an upgraded version of the 3.7-liter V6 engine. With 350 hp on tap, it's the ultimate version of the 370Z and the last of a dying breed of naturally-aspirated sports cars.
Consumers wanting to tone down the sportiness and increase the enjoyable aspect of the 370Z can opt for one of the three convertible models. The soft-top Roadster disappears into the 370Z's rear end in roughly 20 seconds and eats well into the cargo room – there's only 4.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity. But there's unlimited headroom, which seems like an even tradeoff.
The 370Z is available in seven different trims, including three softtop Roadster models. Only the base model is available with optional packages.
The Nismo Tech trim is the best looking and the sportiest, but the 370Z Sport trim hits all of the right notes for consumers and enthusiasts looking to get into a capable sports car. But regardless of which trim you buy, you're getting a very old vehicle that lacks the balance, comfort, or technology of newer competitors. If you like its analog driving character, that's great – but don't be surprised if its harshness, occasionally unpleasant attitude begins to grate.