Changes in Nissan Z production for the 2027 model year
According to data for 2025, Nissan Z sales showed an impressive result – 5,487 cars were delivered, which is almost double the figures of its main competitor, the Toyota Supra, and 74% more than the previous year. This indicates significant momentum for a model that recently had stability issues in the market. However, it seems that sales volume was not the brand’s main goal, and a serious strategy shift is now underway.
For the upcoming 2027 model year, which has already been introduced in Japan but not yet in the USA, production will be reduced. Cars will be built to individual orders, and the number of NISMO versions with a manual transmission will be significantly smaller than one might expect. This leads to the thought that dealer markups may return.
Information about the changes first appeared on the NissanZClub forum and was later confirmed by the manufacturer itself. A separate source familiar with the internal ordering processes reported that NISMO versions with a manual transmission will constitute only a small fraction of total production. Dealers have been warned of a “production shortage,” and each dealership can expect only two to three regular Z cars for the entire model year.
Nissan states that the strategy is aimed at aligning supply with demand and avoiding costly incentives that accompanied overproduction in 2024.
Limited availability of the manual NISMO version
According to a Nissan insider, less than 10% of total Z production will be NISMO versions with a manual transmission. Moreover, it is reported that these cars have already been allocated at the national level. In some dealer systems, only Sport and Performance trims remain available for order. This means that for the 2027 model year, there are no more dealer quotas left for the manual NISMO.
This is important because the Nissan Z Nismo with a manual transmission is exactly what enthusiasts have been waiting for. Previously, Nismo was only available with an automatic transmission, so the addition of a third pedal should have been a significant event. Instead, the opportunity to purchase one may turn into a lottery.
The combination of minimal dealer quotas with the production share of the most desired version being less than 10% creates a complex situation. Limited supply and confirmed demand give an advantage in pricing. Even if the MSRP does not change, actual transaction prices, as history confirms, are likely to increase. Throughout the Z’s lifecycle, there have already been periods when dealers placed huge markups on it, and undoubtedly, some will do the same now.
Impact on buyers and market prospects
In 2025, the Nissan Z gained significant momentum. In 2026, it seems to be trading that for scarcity. It is worth noting that some dealers commit to selling cars at the MSRP, regardless of circumstances. Therefore, if you are considering purchasing a Z, it is worth contacting such dealers and avoiding those unwilling to adhere to the manufacturer’s price.
The shift to build-to-order production is a logical step for inventory control and maintaining the model’s value, especially in the niche sports car segment. However, for true brand enthusiasts who were waiting for an accessible manual Nismo version, this news may be disappointing. This situation could also activate the secondary market, where prices for limited versions may significantly exceed the original cost. In the long term, such a strategy could strengthen the Z’s image as an exclusive and desirable car, but it may also distance it from part of the audience that expected more democratic access to the top modification.