2023 Nissan Z Performance Manual First Test – “Compromised but Still Intriguing.

 2023 Nissan Z Performance Manual First Test – “Compromised but Still Intriguing.

In actual use, the VR30DDTT engine has a refinement the older VQ engine could only hope for. Instead of acting, sounding, and feeling like a truck engine like the previous Z's VQ engine did, the engine now spins without vibration and makes pleasant guttural noises. The six-speed manual's shift lever still jerks when applying or fast releasing the throttle, but this is the only obvious physical indication of the engine's activity. As before, the Z doesn't have a "sport" mode; instead, it has two satisfying tactile buttons: one to disable the traction and stability control and another next to the shifter to activate the S-Mode function that matches the engine's revs. This transmission is manual (a nine-speed auto is optional at no cost)

As a 400-horsepower, rear-wheel-drive sports vehicle with a Performance trim option, the Z is sometimes referred to as a "track car," which at first glance appears bizarre. With that moniker come larger Akebono front brakes, a new clutch-style locking rear differential, and lightweight 19-inch Rays wheels. It would typically be puzzling to understand why its manufacturer would think a car configured in this way was inappropriate for use on a track, especially for a novice track day. However, that makes sense given the way the Z drives—kind, it's even. When you apply the brakes, the body drops, and when you rev the twin-turbo V-6, it goes on plane.

At our testing location, we drove the Z around a brief, twisty course and enjoyed it.As a 400-horsepower, rear-wheel-drive sports vehicle with a Performance trim option, the Z is sometimes referred to as a "track car," which at first glance appears bizarre. With that moniker come larger Akebono front brakes, a new clutch-style locking rear differential, and lightweight 19-inch Rays wheels. It would typically be puzzling to understand why its manufacturer would think a car configured in this way was inappropriate for use on a track, especially for a novice track day. However, that makes sense given the way the Z drives—kind, it's even. When you apply the brakes, the body drops, and when you rev the twin-turbo V-6, it goes on plane.

At our testing location, we drove the Z around a brief, twisty course and enjoyed it.

The interior trim vibrated over rougher roads despite the soft ride, and there is still that dated driveshaft windup that clunks its head up when shifting between lower gears at city speeds. Aging Nissan switchgear from previous generations is interspersed among the new displays. These flaws, many of which remain from the 370Z, might have been fixed in an entirely new vehicle. Nissan instead provides enthusiasts with marginally improved performance, more styling, and a new touchscreen. There's still a certain allure to that.