The 2027 Nissan Z Gives the NISMO a Six-Speed Manual — Here's the Full Picture

Nissan has officially pulled the wraps off the refreshed 2027 Z, and the biggest news is what enthusiasts have been asking for since the current generation launched: a six-speed manual transmission for the Z NISMO. This update brings track-focused enhancements across the lineup, with design updates and handling improvements that sharpen the Z's performance edge.

The 2027 model year marks a comprehensive refresh for Nissan's iconic sports car. While the core formula remains - rear-wheel drive, twin-turbo V6 power, and a driver-focused cockpit - the updates target the details that matter most to driving enthusiasts. Here's what Nissan has confirmed so far.

Three Trims, Two Transmission Choices

The 2027 Z lineup includes three trims: Sport, Performance, and NISMO. All three feature rear-wheel drive and the VR30DDTT 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo engine, but power output varies by trim.

The Sport and Performance trims produce 400 hp at 6,400 rpm and 350 lb-ft of torque between 1,600 and 5,600 rpm - a broad torque band that delivers strong acceleration from low revs. The Z NISMO steps up to 420 hp at 6,400 rpm and 384 lb-ft of torque from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm, thanks to NISMO-specific tuning and an enhanced engine oil cooler.

All three trims come standard with a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission featuring an EXEDY high-performance clutch. The Sport and Performance trims offer an optional nine-speed automatic. The NISMO includes both the six-speed manual and a NISMO-tuned nine-speed automatic as standard options. If you choose the automatic in the Performance or NISMO trims, you get paddle shifters for manual control.

Track-Ready Hardware

The Performance and NISMO trims include a mechanical clutch-type limited-slip differential, which helps put power down more effectively in hard cornering. Both trims also feature SynchroRev Match with the manual transmission - a system that automatically blips the throttle on downshifts for smoother, faster gear changes.

If you opt for the manual transmission, you get a carbon fiber composite drive shaft that reduces rotating mass for quicker throttle response. The automatic transmission uses a steel drive shaft but includes launch control for consistent hard launches.

The NISMO trim adds NISMO-exclusive red anodized Drive Mode buttons, giving you quick access to the car's performance settings. The NISMO also features a NISMO-enhanced engine oil cooler for better thermal management during track sessions.

Design Updates

The 2027 Z receives updated exterior styling across all trims. The Performance trim features body-coloured door handles, front and rear bumpers, and a black front grille. It also includes a front chin spoiler, rear spoiler, and side sill spoilers.

The NISMO takes a more aggressive approach with NISMO-exclusive front and rear fascias, a unique front grille, and NISMO-specific side sills. The NISMO also gets a three-piece rear spoiler, black mirrors with a red NISMO strip, and a black "katana" blade styling element. NISMO emblems appear at the front and rear. The black roof is standard on the NISMO and optional on the Sport and Performance trims.

Interior and Technology

Inside, all three trims include Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, automatic temperature control, and power windows with one-touch up/down. The Performance and NISMO trims add a wireless device charger with Qi2 compatibility, HomeLink Universal Transceiver, and aluminum-trimmed sport pedals.

The NISMO features NISMO-exclusive red anodized engine start and Drive Mode buttons, reinforcing the performance focus. All trims include USB charging ports (one USB-A, one USB-C) and dual sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors.

Safety features include Intelligent Cruise Control, a RearView Monitor, and front and rear parking sensors across all trims.

What We're Still Waiting to Learn

Nissan has not yet released pricing for the 2027 Z lineup. Fuel economy ratings are also listed as "to be determined" for all trims and transmission combinations. Canadian availability and delivery timelines have not been officially announced.

The Bottom Line

The 2027 Nissan Z refresh delivers what enthusiasts have been asking for: a manual transmission option for the Z NISMO, along with design updates and handling improvements across the lineup. The addition of the six-speed manual to the NISMO trim gives drivers the full track-focused experience, while the updated styling sharpens the Z's presence on the road.

If you're interested in learning more about the 2027 Nissan Z or want to be notified when it arrives at Fredericton Nissan, contact our team. We'll keep you updated on availability, pricing, and ordering details as soon as Nissan releases them.