All-New 2023 Nissan 400Z Coupe Expert Review

2023 Nissan 400Z kicks off the seventh generation of the brand’s hit Z cars and is the first without a number in the model name reflecting engine displacement. The production model remains very similar to the Nissan Z Proto concept that was first unveiled in 2020.

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The performance coupe is offered in two trims, and a special edition Proto Spec variant is also available. The car’s exterior styling has created the biggest buzz among enthusiasts, featuring a gaping rectangular jaw and design elements harkening back to performance Nissan engines from the 1970s, 80s, and 90s.

Nissan’s long-awaited new Z-car is a fun, relatively inexpensive sports car date. Several years ago, Nissan’s chief product specialist for the GT-R and Z, Hiroshi Tamura, purchased an R32 Skyline GT-R that had been upgraded to around 1,000 horsepower.

He made it his own by detuning it to 600 because sending over 150 hp to each driven wheel just overwhelmed the tire technology of the time and made the car completely unmanageable.

As he did with his R32, Tamura aims to make the new 2023 Nissan 400Z more of a dancing partner in contrast to the Godzilla GT-R persona. This overarching philosophy drives many of the decisions that now promise the difference between the significantly revised Z34 and its main rival, the Toyota GR Supra J29.

For 2023 Nissan ditched the 370Z viscous limited-slip differential in favor of a mechanical unit, standard on the Performance models, which uses a clutch package to quickly lock up when one of the tires slips. This provides a much more natural feel coming out of corners and also increases traction when launching the car in a straight line.

Cool retro style
Powerful twin-turbo V-6 power
Standard manual transmission
Lots of torque from the twin-turbo V6
comfortable ride
A fun mix of retro style and a modern touch
The new Z model replaces the previous 370Z
Turbocharged V6 is good for 400 horsepower
A long list of standard and optional technology features
Manual transmission is still available
Launched the seventh generation 2023 Nissan 400Z

2023 Nissan 400Z Reviews

Sports cars are having a moment—witness the revived Toyota Supra and splashy mid-engine Corvette both debuted last year—so it’s the perfect time for Nissan to redesign its aging Z coupe. Perfect too, because it’s clearly out of date. Historically, Nissan sports cars used alphanumeric names, such as the outgoing 370Z model and the original 240Z from 1969, but this generation will simply be called the Z.

The 2023 Z is powered by a 400 hp twin-turbocharged V-6 engine that drives the rear wheels via manual six-speed or nine-speed automatic. We were impressed by the Z’s pleasant handling and agile acceleration and we’re pleased to note that it’s smoother overall than the cars it replaces.

Thankfully, the Z has also received a tech update with new touchscreen infotainment, a reconfigurable digital gauge display, and a host of new driver assistance features. While the last-gen 370Z competed with more affordable sports cars like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Toyota 86 in terms of price and performance, the next-gen car is moving slightly up the market to put the Supra in its crosshairs.

Nissan’s iconic Z car is all new for 2023. Shown off by the Z Proto concept car, the new Z draws design inspiration from previous models but gives us a glimpse into the future with its latest technology and much-needed interior modernization. The new Z goes on sale in the summer of 2022 as a hardtop coupe but a convertible could follow at a later time.

HIGHEST

Ride to match, the spunky twin-turbo V-6 is available with a six-speed manual.

LOWEST

Comfortable cabin, indistinct center steering feel, and heavier than the previous 370Z.

THE CHARGE

Nissan has crafted the Z for the modern era, complete with lots of throwback styling elements that pay perfect homage to sports car history.

2023 Nissan 400Z Refresh

The new Z is the latest, and possibly last, petrol-powered generation of the company’s acclaimed two-seater sports car. It follows the last generation 370Z after a three-year gap. The new Z isn’t entirely new — it shares the same body structure as its predecessor — but Nissan has revised almost everything. There are more powerful engines, better handling and braking capabilities, updated cabs, and new technological features.

Under the hood is a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that develops 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque – a healthy increase over the 370Z’s maximum of 350 hp and 276 lb-ft. Purists will rejoice at the rear-wheel drive layout and the return of the six-speed manual transmission. Manually equipped Performance models come with a rev match feature so you’ll always hit the right target when you downshift.

It also comes with launch control if you choose the top Performance trim. Launch control is present on all Zs equipped with the available nine-speed automatic.

The new Z gets a thorough refresh on the inside, though some of the old elements remain. The new dashboard features a large touchscreen that runs more modern software. There’s also a slick new digital instrument panel that does a great job of conveying important information at a glance. Below the center display are three climate control dials similar to those on the 370Z.

It’s an old-school design, but the dial is easier to use than some of the newer, more complicated on-screen climate controls.

We’re glad the Z exists, and the prospect of getting a 400-hp sports car at a reasonable price is certainly appealing. But in some respects, we feel that Nissan did not do enough to revitalize the Z compared to the recent versions of the BMW 2 Series coupe, Ford Mustang, and Toyota Supra.

Check out our test team’s Expert Rating below to see where the new 2023 Nissan 400Z shines and where it falls short.

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2023 Nissan 400Z Specifications & Performance Options

It’s fashionable for automakers to promote their new performance fares with limited editions, such as the Z Proto Spec meant to be. This package is only available for the higher Z Performance trim. It was capped at 240 copies, the figure referenced the 240Z, the original Z car. It includes two cosmetic exterior modifications, yellow brake calipers, and bronze wheels.

Inside, the exclusive Proto Spec consists of leather seats with yellow accents, suede and fabric door trim with yellow stitching, and a package-specific shift knob for versions equipped with a manual transmission.

For a new Nissan sports car to up the ante, look no further than the 2023 Nissan 400Z Coupe. At George Harte Nissan, our dedicated sales team can help you learn all about the 2023 Nissan Z’s engine specs, transmission options, and more. What engine is in the new Nissan Z? Both the 2023 Nissan 400Z Sport and Z Performance models are equipped with a 400 horsepower V6 Twin Turbo engine that will let you fly to your next destination with confidence.

A 6-speed close ratio manual transmission with EXEDY high-performance clutch comes as standard, or an upgrade to the optional 9-speed automatic transmission is available on both 2023 Z trims. Additional specifications and performance features for the 2023 Nissan 400Z may include:

3.0-liter V6 Twin Turbo engine with 400 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque
Unique paddle shifter
Launch control
Rev Down Match (9AT) or SynchroRev Match® (6MT)

2023 Nissan 400Z Interior Technologies & Options

Sit into the interior of the 2023 Nissan Z and prepare to be blown away. Whether it’s the leather upholstered seats on the new Z Performance model or standard infotainment technologies like Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ and Bluetooth®, you’ll find that the 2023 Nissan 400Z will leave you and your lucky copilot breathless.

Book a Nissan Z 2023 nearby to enjoy even more interior amenities, such as the Bose® audio system available with eight speakers, Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement for the best listening experience. Additional 2023 Nissan 400Z cabin features may include:

9.0-in. touch screen display with navigation
Exclusive Proto Spec interior seats, trim and badging
Siri® Free Eyes
NissanConnect® with WiFi hotspot

2023 Nissan 400Z Comfort, and Cargo

Although new for 2023, Nissan hasn’t changed the layout of the Z’s cabin. It remains a two-seater coupe with no remaining rear seats à la Porsche 911. However, what has changed is everything. The new Z receives a modernized cabin with updated materials—a welcome improvement from the 370Z’s dated interior. Leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control are all available.

Cargo space remains a mystery, but we don’t expect the Z to be a Costco run champ; we stuffed three carry-on cases in the boot of the old 370Z, which should be plenty for most sports car buyers.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Nissan has brought the Z into the twenty-first century with a standard 8.0-inch infotainment screen (9.0-inch unit with optional navigation), 12.3-inch digital gauge display, SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Six-speaker stereo is standard but audiophiles can upgrade to an optional premium audio setup engineered by Bose; an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot is also available.

2023 Nissan 400Z Exterior: Contemporary Vintage Inspiration

It may have some old bones, but you could never tell by looking at the new Z. The old 370Z’s proportions never looked out of date, it just needed a small fastener with some modern fittings to feel like a product fit for the 2020s. Some have maligned the Z box’s front grille, but personally, we think it really lives up to the design. In fact, we love everything about heritage-inspired design.

The semi-circular LED headlamps hark back to the Japan-only 240ZG, while the LED taillights are clearly inspired by the Z32 300ZX. Everything is modern and vintage, and we absolutely love it.

Talking about the things we love, Nissan offers a bright color palette that is acceptable for its newest sports car. There are plenty of subtle colors like Gun Metallic, Black Diamond Metallic, Everest White TriCoat, Brilliant Silver, and Boulder Grey, but we love that there are more whimsical options like Rosewood Metallic, Passion Red TriCoast, Seiran Blue Metallic, and our personal colors. favorite, Ikazuchi Yellow.

2023 Nissan 400Z Performance: Infiniti To The Rescue

Nissan’s trusty VQ37VHR engine can finally be put to rest, as the new Z adopts the fresher VR30DDTT 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that also functions under the hood of the Infiniti Q50 Sedan and Q60 Coupe. The Z got the most powerful tone available to the mill, producing 400 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, a substantial increase compared to the 370Z.

This powerhouse takes the Z into the realm of modern performance, posting 0-60 sprints in a low four-second span (you’ll be quicker on auto).

Power flows to the rear wheels via a standard six-speed manual transmission with rev matching, or a no-cost nine-speed automatic that comes to life in the Titan pickup truck. Despite its humble origins, the nine-speed feels like a huge improvement over the 370Z’s seven-speed box. In fact, we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the car, for that doesn’t detract from the fun.

The Toyota-derived ZF box from Toyota is quicker and more responsive, but we’d prefer not to use the Nissan too much for a well-executed automatic.

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Driving Impression: Sporty GT

At its first-ever drive in Las Vegas, Nissan brought out the 370Z so we could compare how the new Z felt against the old. The lighter electric steering rack feels lighter without losing an iota of precision. The same can be said about both transmissions.

We no longer feel the need to wrestle with shifters to get it into gear like the old 370Z manual, and an automatic, the shifts feel sharper and more timely than the seven-speed unit in the 370Z.

Then there’s the machine. Adding two turbochargers makes a world of difference, creating an entirely different driving experience. Unlike the 370Z, the new car doesn’t require drivers to crank it to the redline to squeeze every last ounce of power out of it. Instead, you can accelerate at moderate rpm and still bake the tires with turbocharged torque. The VR30 sounded pretty good on the Q50 and Q60, but it really sings here.

We’d go so far as to say that this engine produces a more pleasant sound than the GT-R’s twin-turbo six, also a VR family bike, for the record.

On the Track: Room For Nismo

We’d describe the Z as more of a sporty GT car than a track-raised monster. This description felt accurate as we pushed the Z down the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, catching up to our instructor without much difficulty. Power is plentiful around the track, which we last used in the Shelby GT500, but other experience elements like the suspension are more comfortable on the road.

The Z was very capable on full grade, but we found the suspension too soft for frequent track use. This is where the Nismo could step in with stiffer springs and some more aggressive Recaro seats (we nearly fell off the base seats).

Nissan only includes two driving modes (Normal and Sport) on automatic trim, so there’s not much to tweak before you get a quick spin on it. Automatic models come standard with easy-to-use launch controls, helping to get off course with ease. Performance values that are manually set get a new advanced launch assist control system, which allows you to choose the launch rpm. While we had a bit more fun on the manual, the automatic never felt like a hindrance on the track.

Compare Nissan Z Trims 2023: Z Sport vs. Model Z Performance

2023 Nissan 400Z Sport

400-hp 3.0-liter V6 Twin Turbo engine
Nissan 6-speaker audio system
Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™
Dark-painted aluminum wheels
Smart Auto Light

2023 Nissan 400Z Performance

Unique paddle shifter
RAYS® super light forged aluminum wheels
8-speaker Bose® Audio with Active Noise Cancellation & Active Sound Enhancement
NissanConnect® with WiFi hotspot
9.0-in touchscreen display with navigation

2023 Nissan 400Z Engine

Like its sibling, the Nissan GT-R, the Z is powered by a twin-turbocharged V-6. However, instead of the 565 hp 3.8-liter engine that sits under the GT-R’s hood, the Z gets the 400 hp 3.0-liter engine from the Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400 paired with a six-speed manual. or a nine-speed automatic. While the all-wheel drive was available on the Infiniti, Nissan kept rear-wheel drive exclusively for the Z.

The Turbo six gave the Z plenty of zip but our manual-transmission test car hit 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, far behind the Supra. The cornering grip is plentiful as long as you don’t drive too close to the Z limit. Push hard, though, and suspension tuning turns out to be up to the task. Compliance provides good comfort on the go, but rival sports cars offer sharper reflexes.

Customized And Tuned Twin-Turbo

With the 2023 Nissan 400Z using only two wheels to transmit power to the road, the 400 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque produced by the VR30DDTT engine are also used by the Infiniti Q50 and Q60 Red Sport models to fully “outperform” the traction capabilities of the Yokohama ADVAN or Bridgestone Potenza rear tires. S007. And while the engine’s peak output figures haven’t changed, it’s not a simple engine change.

The Z cars will likely do more track days than their Infiniti counterparts, so the intakes receive a pressure-holding recirculation circuit during the brief throttle lift for corner entry. The world feels smoother, smoother, and more powerful when pushed backward with the 370Z. Engaging Sport mode adds an electronic engine roar, which struggles to drown out the exhaust tone of the new Z vacuum cleaner at high rpm.

Real World Fuel and MPG Savings

According to the EPA, the most efficient Z is with an automatic transmission. It is rated for 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. Using the manual brings those numbers down to 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. When we have the chance, we’ll test the Z on our 75 mph fuel economy test route and update this story with the results. For more information on the Z’s fuel economy, visit the EPA website.

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Nissan Z 2023 Safety Features

No matter which 2023 Z model you choose in the George Harte Nissan, you will be rewarded with advanced driver assistance features. Get the peace of mind you deserve with standard safety technologies like Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and more.

Additionally, the 2023 Nissan 400Z design incorporates Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, an energy-absorbing steering column, and many other engineering innovations that help keep you safe on Connecticut highways and local race tracks. Find the 2023 Nissan 400Z in West Haven, CT to learn more about standard safety features, such as:

Smart Cruise Control
Lane Departure Alerts
Blind Spot Warning
Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection

2023 Nissan 400Z FirstDrive

We really didn’t expect that to happen, but the 2023 Nissan 400Z is finally here to replace the 370Z after an 11-year production run. After more than a decade of minimal changes, you’d forgive us for thinking Nissan would ditch its long-running sports car nameplate. While this is technically a seventh-generation Z car, the numberless Z isn’t quite as new as you might think.

In fact, it retains the Z34 370Z’s platform designation and that car’s FM platform. And just to remind you how old the FM platform is, it debuted on the 350Z back in 2002.

How can a car on a two-decade-old platform stand against the combined forces of BMW and Toyota with the more modern GR Supra that will soon have a manual transmission option to match the Z? Nissan’s cost-cutting was worth it, as the Z entered the sports car market with prices ranging from $39,990 – $3,500 under a four-cylinder Supra – and a 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6 (18 hp more than the BMW-sourced Inline-six).

Some time behind the wheel in Las Vegas shows Nissan knows what it’s doing with the Z.

Recommended Trims

The 2023 Nissan 400Z is available in two trims: Sport, which starts at around $41,000, and Performance, which costs around $51,000. Although Z Performance packs upgrades such as a clutch-type limited slip differential, suspension modifications, and larger Rays wheels with wider Bridgestone Potenza S007 summer tires, the car still feels a bit awkward to drive in track driving situations.

That makes us think the regular Z Sport is the one to get — it’s also a lot of fun, and its much lower starting price saves you money on fuel, tires, and your own performance upgrade options.

2023 Nissan 400Z Price

Despite a higher base price than the outgoing 370Z, the new Z still offers a bargain price compared to major rivals such as the Supra and Audi TT. To justify its higher price tag, Z is upping the ante with more luxury features and more desirable styling. We’ll go with the mid-range Z Performance trim, which adds a sportier suspension tone, limited slip differential, upgraded brakes, 19-inch wheels with summer tires, and power-adjustable seats with faux-suede upholstery.

Z Sport $41,015
Z Performance $51,015
Z Proto Spec $54,015

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Main Competitors:

Toyota Supra
Chevrolet Camaros
Ford Mustangs
Dodge Challenger

Verdict

We can’t say the 2023 Nissan Z is the greatest new sports car available in the market. However, given its starting price of under $40,000 and the 400 hp powertrain, we can easily call it one of the best offerings in the sports car segment. The Supra offers faster performance and a nicer interior but costs about $12,000 more than the base Z for a 3.0 inline-six. We could say the same about the Chevrolet Corvette, which costs $20,000 more than the Z.

Meanwhile, cheaper sports cars like the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Toyota GR 86, and Subaru BRZ can’t even match the Z in power.

It may seem like a copout to say the Z is “great for the price,” but we commend Nissan for analyzing the market, being smart with its resources, and coming up with a product that sits right in the sweet spot between an entry-level sports car and a more expensive premium option. If you’re currently looking in the $40,000-$50,000 price range, the new Z is a great option.

It’s worth noting, though, as the base model isn’t equipped with all the great handling features you’d want to take advantage of for 400 hp.

All-New 2023 Nissan 400Z Coupe Sports Car Expert Review