The 2026 Nissan Z gets a sleek facelift, aerodynamic G‑nose, fresh Unryu Green paint, and a coveted 6‑speed manual – discover the upgrades and specs now. Learn more today!
At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026, Nissan unveiled a mid‑cycle refresh of its celebrated sports coupe, the Nissan Z (known in Japan as the Fairlady Z). Designated as the 27MY model, the update brings aerodynamic tweaks, new colour options, and—most notably—a long‑awaited 6‑speed manual transmission.
Design Refresh
The facelift centers on a sharper front “G‑nose” that draws inspiration from the international Fairlady ZG. Revised front splitters, a re‑shaped bumper, and a new grille reduce front‑axle lift by 3.3% and cut overall drag by about 1%.
Dual‑tone wheels echo the classic Nissan 300ZX (Z31) styling, while the small rear spoiler has been removed for a cleaner silhouette. A fresh paint hue called Unryu Green—a tribute to the historic Grand Prix Green of the original Fairlady Z—joins the palette.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the cabin stays true to the latest generation: a 12.3‑inch digital instrument cluster and a 9‑inch central touchscreen deliver the latest infotainment and driver‑assist features.
Performance and Powertrain
The heart of the car remains the 3.0‑liter twin‑turbo V6, delivering 405 hp (302 kW) and 475 Nm (350 lb‑ft) of torque. Power is paired with Nissan’s 9‑speed automatic 9G‑Tronic, but the facelift introduces a new 6‑speed manual gearbox—an option that has excited enthusiasts worldwide.
Brake upgrades feature Nissan‑Akebono calipers with 380 mm front discs, and the suspension sees larger pistons (up from 40 mm to 45 mm) for improved handling. The manual‑spec car weighs 1,640 kg, while the automatic version sits at 1,670 kg—both roughly 10 kg lighter than the previous 26MY generation.
Pricing and Market Outlook
Nissan has not yet disclosed pricing for the 27MY Nissan Z. For reference, the 26MY model launched at ¥6,759,500 (about US$42,800). Analysts expect the new trim to sit in a similar price bracket, with potential premium for the manual gearbox.
Legacy and Sales
Since its debut in 1970, the Z line has sold 1,836,157 units worldwide as of September 2025, spanning seven generations. The latest refresh aims to keep the Z relevant for a new generation of drivers seeking a pure, driver‑focused sports car.
With its refined aerodynamics, fresh colour options, and the return of a manual transmission, the 2026 Nissan Z is positioned to rekindle enthusiasm among purists while attracting fresh buyers looking for an accessible performance coupe.
