2027 Nissan Z Gains Heritage-Inspired Design Elements

The 2027 Nissan Z is scheduled for availability in summer 2026, bringing a series of updates focused on both performance and design. These changes include larger-diameter shock absorbers for Performance models and a new manual transmission option for the Z NISMO. Nissan has also integrated five new design elements that pay homage to the Z's historical lineage.

Performance and Exterior Design Revisions

The 2027 Z Performance models will feature larger-diameter shock absorbers, aiming to enhance the vehicle's handling characteristics. For enthusiasts, the Z NISMO variant will now offer a manual transmission option, expanding its appeal.

A notable exterior change for the 2027 model year is a revised front grille, which now incorporates a split design. This new grille takes inspiration from the original 240Z, known as the S30 generation. According to Paul Hawson, director of Advanced Product Planning & Strategy at Nissan North America, engineers adjusted front parking sensor packaging to accommodate the new grille shape while maintaining cooling efficiency. Additionally, a Z emblem replaces the Nissan emblem on the front, aligning the design with earlier Z generations such as the S30, S130, Z31, and Z32.

Wheel Design and New Paint Option

Z Performance drivers will receive new 19-inch RAYS® alloy wheels. These ten-spoke wheels draw inspiration from the 300ZX (Z31) model's machined wheels from the mid-1980s, arranged in a star-like pattern. Shinichiro Irie, program design director at Nissan, noted that the thin spokes allow for visibility of the Z Performance's large brake rotors and red calipers. The wheels are fitted with Bridgestone Potenza® S007 high-performance tires, with the rear wheels being 0.5 inches wider than the front for improved grip.

The 2027 Z introduces a new exterior color, Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic. This shade, whose name translates to "deep sea" in Japanese, evokes the Grand Prix Green offered on the S30. Nissan engineers developed this color using ultra-fine yellow and blue pigments to resist fading from sun exposure, and added a mild metallic flake for depth. Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic is available as an extra-cost option on both Sport and Performance grades.

Interior and Digital Enhancements

For the interior, Z Performance grades will offer an available tan interior option. This color palette is a direct reference to the S30 generation. The tan interior can be combined with several exterior colors, including the new Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic, Black Diamond Pearl, Bayside Blue Quad Coat, Pearl White TriCoat, and Solid Red. Irie stated that the tan interior provides a sophisticated contrast with the black cabin materials on the upper dash and doors.

Both Z Sport and Performance grades will feature a new startup animation on the standard digital meter display. This sequence showcases previous Z generations in an animated display, acknowledging the model's history. NISMO models will continue to feature their unique startup animation. These 2027 Nissan Z changes aim to connect the current model with its storied past.

The 2027 Nissan Z changes reflect a strategy to integrate historical design cues with contemporary performance and features. These updates, from the revised grille to the new color and interior options, offer Z enthusiasts a blend of nostalgia and modern sports car attributes.