*Disclosure: The 2023 Nissan Z was provided to me for testing purposes and editorial consideration. All opinions are 100% my own*
Hey guys,
There’s no better feeling to me than driving a sports car. And the all-new 2023 Nissan Z is not only meant to be admired, but also driven.
I recently had the pleasure of exploring Las Vegas in the gorgeous coupe and let me just say that the entire experience was nothing short of exhilarating. I not only had the opportunity to see how the vehicle handled on the winding Las Vegas desert roads, but also in rush hour traffic, on a mild off-roading adventure, and during a drifting session with Automotive Rhythms.
The seventh-generation sports car is definitely more than just eye-candy, because it handled itself like the true legend that it is throughout the day.
Keep reading to learn more about the 2023 Nissan Z…
Fun Fact: Although the sports car is simply called the “Z” in the US, it is known as the “Fairlady Z” in Japan.
Here is a quick “Fairlady Z” breakdown:
- “Fairlady” came from the musical “My Fair Lady”.
- Z is a sub-name for limitless possibilities and dreams.
- The overall meaning is about a strong woman maintaining her identity in spite of others around her.
This analogy makes sense because women, just like the Z, have maintained our strength, identity and beauty throughout the years.
2023 Nissan Z – Things to Know
- The Z model replaces the 370Z.
- This seventh-generation Z represents 53 years of history.
- The Japanese automaker pretty much changed everything on the Z except for the underlying body structure that it shares with its predecessor.
- There is a manual transmission option available for each trim.
- Note: I can drive a manual, but I have not driven a lot of different manuals. So, I was a little nervous to get behind the wheel of this manual sports car. However, I caught on fairly quickly.
- There is no price difference in the six-speed manual and nine-speed automatic.
- Offered in RWD (Rear Wheel Drive) only.
- A ton of tech come standard.
- Seat adjustments
- When looking to slide the seat forward or backward, look for the switch on the right edge of the seat. It took me a few minutes to find, because it is somewhat hidden.
- The Proto Spec pays homage to the Z Proto that launched in 2020.
- There will only be 240 made in the US.
- Both the Sport and the Performance trims will be available at Nissan dealerships nationwide in Summer of 2022.
2023 Nissan Z – Things that Caught my Attention
In the process of researching the vehicle, there were a few cool things, among many that caught my attention. For instance, the Z has a more powerful engine than its predecessor, the cabin got a very nice makeover and there is a ton of innovative technology that now comes standard in the sports car.
In addition to those listed above check out a few other things that stood out during my time with the vehicle…
- Gorgeous exterior
- Dynamic race inspired cockpit
- It’s strong, durable and provides a thrilling drive experience
- The vehicle is instantly recognizable – You definitely know this is a Nissan Z
- Two tone color door panels
- Iconic analog gauges on dashboard
- Two cup holders
- The leather interior that comes equipped in the Performance Trim may match the exterior hue depending on your model and color choice.
- Has great handles and braking
- Buyer gets a lot for their money, including 400HP
- Manual Transmission is available on each trim, and it is easy to drive
- NO wireless charging currently available
2023 Nissan Z First Drive Experience
Brief Overview of Models, Specs and Trims:
The 2023 Nissan Z Coupe comes in three trim levels: Sport, Performance and Proto Spec (Limited launch Edition) …
General overview of specs for all trims:
- Engine:
- 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine
- Horsepower: 400HP
- Torque: 350
- Transmission Options:
- 6-Speed manual w/high-performance clutch
- 9-speed automatic w/aluminum paddle shifters
- Estimated MPG:
- Manual: 18 city/24 highway/20 combined
- Automatic: 19 city/28 highway/22 combined
Sport
(Base Model)
- Starting MSRP:
- $39,990.00
- An additional destination and handling charge of $1,025 will apply
- Specs/Features:
- Vented front and rear disc brakes
- Fully digital TFT meter display
- Standard driver assistance and safety technologies, which includes:
- Automatic emergency braking w/pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, high beam assist, intelligent forward collision warning
- 8″ touchscreen display w/Apple Carplay & Android Auto
- Nissan Intelligent Key w/push button start
- LED headlights
- Intelligent cruise control
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Automatic temperature control
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Two 12-volt power points/two USB points (Type-A and Type-C), and front and rear sonar sensors
- Bluetooth hands-free phone system
- Streaming audio via Bluetooth
- SiriusXM radio
- Hands-free text messaging assistant
- Siri eyes free
Performance
(Performance trim adds)
- Starting MSRP:
- $49,990.00
- An additional destination and handling charge of $1,025 will apply
- Specs/Features:
- Nissan performance brakes
- 19″ RAYS super lightweight aluminum alloy wheels
- 9″ touchscreen display w/BOSE audio
- Mechanical limited slip differential
- Leather-appointed seats, power driver/passenger seats
- Heated front seats and side mirrors
- Rear spoiler and front chin spoiler
- 9.0-inch touchscreen w/navigation
- NissanConnect services w/Wi-Fi hotspot
- 8-speaker Bose audio system w/active noise cancellation and active sound enhancement
Proto Spec
(Limited Launch Edition)
- Starting MSRP:
- $52,990.00
- An additional destination and handling charge of $1,025 will apply
- Specs/Features:
- Proto Spec Exclusive 19″ RAYS lightweight forged alloy wheels
- Yellow-colored brake calipers
- Bronze-colored aluminum-alloy wheels
- Exclusive shift lever knob (MT only)
- Exclusive Proto Spec leather-appointed seats w/yellow accents
- Suede + cloth door trim w/yellow stitching
- Special Proto Spec interior stitching
*Proto Spec – There will only be 240 units made in the US*
I am truly impressed by the Nissan Z’s Iconic design, modern technology and thrilling performance. I also love that when redesigning the sports car, the brand stayed true to their roots, as this vehicle is a magnificent blend of past and present.
What are your thoughts on the retro yet very modern look of the coupe? Inquiring minds would love to know.
Interested in the 2023 Nissan Z? If so, please contact your local Nissan dealership or visit their website.
Have A Happy Healthy, and Remember to Always…
Stay Sassy
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