Nissan Fairlady Z Update
At the 2026 Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan unveiled the updated version of the iconic Fairlady Z sports car. These are not just cosmetic changes — the car, which has been on the market for four years, has received important technical improvements and styling refinements.
Exterior and Aerodynamics
The overall silhouette of the car remains recognizable; however, the designers have reworked the front bumper. The vertical slats from the previous model are gone, replaced by a more streamlined lower section and a body-colored crossbar that visually breaks up the radiator grille.
According to Nissan representatives, these changes serve not only an aesthetic function. The new aerodynamics have reduced front axle lift by 3.3% and lowered the coefficient of aerodynamic drag by 1% compared to the previous model.
Other exterior changes are more restrained: the rear spoiler has been removed, the corporate Nissan logo has been replaced by a simple “Z” letter, and the alloy wheels have received a new two-tone finish.
Color Solutions and Nismo Version
Among the new colors, the vibrant Unryu Green, inspired by the Grand Prix Green from the S30 model, stands out. Paired with a beige interior, it creates a vintage charm without feeling like a costume from the past. The Nismo version, on the contrary, retains the aggressive body kit with red accents, unique wheels, and a black interior with Alcantara and red stitching.
Technical Updates
Under the hood remains the familiar 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6. In the standard version, it produces 400 hp, while in the Nismo variant — 420 hp. The drive is still rear-wheel, and the transmission options are a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic.
The most significant update this time was the option of a manual transmission for the Nismo version, which enthusiasts had long been waiting for.
Along with the “manual” for Nismo, the engineers recalibrated the engine control unit, ignition system, and throttle response to sharpen the car’s reaction to driver inputs.
Although power has not increased, new monotube shock absorbers with a larger diameter were installed across the entire lineup to improve comfort. The Nismo suspension was additionally retuned to find a balance between sporty performance and daily comfort. This version also inherited more powerful brakes, borrowed from the now-discontinued R35 GT-R model.
Market Launch
The updated Nissan Fairlady Z for the 2027 model year will be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in January 2026. Its launch on the Japanese market is scheduled for summer 2026. Details regarding the American-spec Z are not yet confirmed, but similar changes are expected to be introduced later this year.
This update shows that Nissan continues to refine its legendary model, focusing on driver engagement and technical excellence, not just appearance. The arrival of a manual gearbox for the top Nismo version is a direct response to enthusiast demands who value full control over the car. Such steps may help the Z maintain its niche among “charged” sports cars in an era when many manufacturers are betting on electric vehicles and automatic transmissions.