Discover the 2026 Nissan Z facelift with a sharper G‑nose, fresh Unryu Green paint, upgraded brakes and the option of a 6‑speed manual. Learn more now!
At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, Nissan unveiled a mid‑cycle facelift for its iconic Z coupe, known in Japan as the Fairlady Z. The refreshed model builds on the 2022 launch while adding modern touches that appeal to both purists and new enthusiasts.
Sharper Aerodynamics and Fresh Styling
The facelift introduces the striking “G‑nose” front bumper, a design cue borrowed from the international Fairlady ZG. Complementary changes to the side skirts and a redesigned grille reduce front‑lift forces by about 3.3 % and trim overall aerodynamic drag by roughly 1 %.
Borrowing heritage cues, Nissan also equips the Z with dual‑tone wheels inspired by the classic 300ZX (Z31), adding a nostalgic yet contemporary flair.
New Exterior Colour: Unryu Green
A standout addition is the limited‑edition Unryu Green paint, echoing the legendary Grand Prix Green that has long represented the Fairlady Z on the racetrack.
Interior Continuity with Modern Tech
The cabin remains largely unchanged, featuring a 12.3‑inch digital instrument cluster and a centrally mounted 9‑inch touchscreen that delivers navigation, media, and vehicle settings.
Powertrain and Transmission Choices
Under the hood, the Z keeps its 3.0‑litre twin‑turbo V6, delivering 405 hp (302 kW) and 475 Nm (350 lb‑ft) of torque. Buyers can choose between the 9‑speed 9G‑Tronic automatic or, for the first time, a six‑speed manual gearbox. The ECU has been retuned to harmonise ignition timing and throttle response for the manual setup.
Chassis and Weight Improvements
- Wider suspension pistons: 45 mm (up from 40 mm)
- Manual‑spec weight: 1,640 kg
- Automatic‑spec weight: 1,670 kg (about 10 kg lighter than the previous generation)
Pricing and Market Outlook
Pricing for the 2026‑model facelift has not yet been announced. The 2025‑model (26MY) started at ¥6,759,500 (≈ US$42,800). Nissan reports that, across seven generations, more than 1.8 million Z‑series cars have been sold worldwide since the model’s debut in 1970.
With its refreshed looks, a fresh colour option, and the long‑awaited manual transmission, the 2026 Nissan Z aims to rejuvenate the sports‑car segment and attract both legacy fans and a new generation of drivers.
