The 2027 Nissan Z Answers the Biggest Complaint About the Last One — Full Breakdown

Nissan has just pulled the wraps off the refreshed 2027 Z, and the headline news is clear: the track-focused NISMO trim now offers a six-speed manual transmission. This marks the first time Canadian enthusiasts can pair NISMO's upgraded 420 hp twin-turbo V6 with a proper three-pedal setup. The refresh also brings design updates, handling improvements across all three trims, and new tech features including Qi2 wireless charging.

The 2027 Z lineup includes Sport, Performance, and NISMO trims. All three share the same VR30DDTT 3.0L twin-turbo V6 and rear-wheel-drive layout, but power output and transmission choices vary by trim. Here's what Nissan has confirmed so far.

Power and Transmission: The NISMO Gets the Manual It Deserves

The Sport and Performance trims produce 400 hp at 6,400 rpm and 350 lb-ft of torque from 1,600 to 5,600 rpm. Both offer a choice between a six-speed manual with EXEDY high-performance clutch or a nine-speed automatic. The manual includes a carbon fibre composite drive shaft for reduced rotational mass and sharper throttle response.

The NISMO steps up to 420 hp at 6,400 rpm and 384 lb-ft of torque from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. For 2027, NISMO buyers can choose between the same six-speed manual or a NISMO-tuned nine-speed automatic. The manual option is new for this year and pairs with the carbon fibre drive shaft, SynchroRev Match, and a mechanical clutch-type limited-slip differential.

Launch control is standard on all automatic-equipped models and on the NISMO manual. The nine-speed automatic includes paddle shifters on Performance and NISMO trims, plus downshift rev matching to smooth out aggressive braking into corners.

Transmission Options:

• Sport and Performance: 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic
• NISMO: 6-speed manual or NISMO-tuned 9-speed automatic

Track-Ready Hardware: What Sets the NISMO Apart

The NISMO trim is built for buyers who plan to see a road course or autocross paddock. Beyond the extra 20 hp and 350 lb-ft, it includes NISMO-exclusive front and rear fascias, a three-piece rear spoiler, side sills, and a black "katana" blade styling element. The front grille and mirrors are also NISMO-specific, with the mirrors featuring a red NISMO strip.

Inside, NISMO buyers get red anodized engine start and Drive Mode buttons. The NISMO also features an enhanced engine oil cooler and NISMO-exclusive Drive Mode buttons for quicker adjustments on track.

The Performance trim sits between Sport and NISMO. It includes the mechanical limited-slip differential, SynchroRev Match on the manual, and aluminum-trimmed sport pedals. It also adds HomeLink and a glove compartment dampener for a more refined cabin feel.

Tech and Convenience: Qi2 Charging and Bose Audio

All three trims include Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, power windows with one-touch up/down, and automatic temperature control. The Sport trim comes with a six-speaker audio system, while Performance and NISMO upgrade to an eight-speaker Bose setup with Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement.

The Performance trim adds an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and NissanConnect with WiFi hotspot. The NISMO includes NissanConnect services and Bose audio but does not feature the 8-inch touchscreen or smartphone integration suites found on Performance.

The new Qi2 wireless device charger is available on Performance and NISMO, offering faster and more efficient charging for compatible smartphones.

The 2027 Z includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Intelligent Cruise Control, front and rear parking sensors, and a RearView Monitor are also included.

Dimensions and Design Updates

The 2027 Z measures 173.2 inches long on a 100.4-inch wheelbase. The Sport and Performance trims are 72.6 inches wide, while the NISMO stretches to 73.6 inches in overall body width. Ground clearance is 4.8 inches on Sport and Performance, and 4.9 inches on NISMO.

Inside, all trims offer 38.2 inches of headroom and 42.9 inches of legroom. Hip room measures 54.6 inches, and shoulder room is 54.2 inches. The two-seat layout keeps the focus on driving.

Nissan has not yet released fuel economy figures or pricing for the Canadian market. Those details are expected closer to the on-sale date.

What We're Still Waiting to Hear

Nissan's official unveiling confirmed the mechanical and feature updates, but several key details remain under wraps. Fuel economy ratings for all trims and transmission combinations have not been released. Canadian pricing and on-sale timing are also still to be announced.

The 2027 Z offers a comprehensive refresh rather than a full redesign. The addition of a manual transmission for the NISMO trim addresses a long-standing request from enthusiasts, and the updated tech features bring the Z in line with current expectations for connectivity and convenience.

If you're interested in the 2027 Nissan Z, contact our team at Spinelli Nissan in Pointe-Claire for updates on Canadian pricing, availability, and ordering details as they are released.