Engineering:Nissan Z (Z34)

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Short description: Seventh-generation of the Nissan Z sports car
Nissan Z (RZ34)
Nissan FAIRLADY Z (Z34) Version ST, 2022, left-front.jpg
Overview
ManufacturerNissan
Also calledNissan Fairlady Z (Japan)
ProductionApril 2022 – present
Model years2023–present
AssemblyJapan: Kaminokawa, Tochigi (Nissan Motor Tochigi Plant)
Designer
  • Naoyuki Ohkoshi (exterior)[1]
  • Takuya Yamashita (interior)[2]
Body and chassis
ClassSports car (S)
Body style2-door fastback coupé
LayoutFront mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive
PlatformNissan FM platform
RelatedNissan 370Z
Powertrain
Engine3.0 L VR30DDTT twin-turbo V6 (RZ34)
Power output400 hp (298 kW; 406 PS) 350 lb⋅ft (475 N⋅m)
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,550 mm (100.4 in)
Length4,380 mm (172.4 in)
Width1,845 mm (72.6 in)
Height1,315 mm (51.8 in)
us|uk|Kerb|Curb}} weight1,581–1,634 kg (3,486–3,602 lb)
Chronology
PredecessorNissan 370Z (Z34)

The Nissan Z,[3] known in Japan as the Nissan Fairlady Z (Japanese: 日産・フェアレディZ, Hepburn: Nissan Fearedi Zetto), is the seventh generation of the Z-car line of sports cars manufactured by Nissan. The model succeeded the 370Z, though is built on a modified and revised version of the previous generations platform.[4] The model also drops the numerical nomenclature of the previous generations.

History

In 2018, the seventh-generation Nissan Z was first hinted at by Alfonso Abaisa, Senior Vice President for Global Design of Nissan, confirmed to Australian automotive magazine WhichCar that a direct successor to the Nissan 370Z was in development.[5] On March 19, 2020, Nissan filed a trademark for a new version of the Z-car logo. On May 28, 2020, as part of Nissan's global restructuring plan, named "Nissan Next", Nissan's official YouTube channel released a short video showcasing its updated vehicle lineup, including the new Z-car; this video also confirmed that the new Z-car would have retro styling, with its overall shape and circular running lights referencing the 240Z.[6] On September 15, 2020, Nissan revealed the prototype version called the "Nissan Z Proto Concept".[7] The prototype was 4,382 mm (172.5 in) long, which is 142 mm (5.6 in) longer than the current Nissan 370Z, and no wider.

Production

Front view
Rear view

The production model Z was foreshadowed by the Z Proto concept, which was presented on September 15, 2020.[8] The production version of the Z was unveiled on August 17, 2021, at New York City by Nissan's official YouTube channel, and the car was presented by Cody Walker (brother of Paul Walker).[9][10] The production model comes in two trim levels: Z Sport (Fairlady Z Version S in Japan) and Z Performance (Fairlady Z Version ST in Japan). The production of the new Z, began in April 2022, sales to begin in June 2022.[11][12] In April 2022, Nissan announced worldwide deliveries of the Z will be delayed until the summer of 2022, due to the impact of the supply parts.[13]

Nissan announced the Z will not be available for the European market including United Kingdom , due to strict emissions and noise regulations. The Z will be sold only in the Japanese, North American, Australian and other markets.[14] pricing for the Japanese market announced in April 2022. The base version S (Sport version) starting at ¥5,241,500 (US$41,081 as of current exchange rates). The version ST (Performance version) starting at ¥6,462,500 (US$50,650 as of current exchange rates).[13] United States pricings also announced, starting at US$41,015 for the Sport version, US$51,015 for the Performance version.[15]

Z Proto Launch Edition

Nissan Z Proto Launch Edition at 2022 Osaka Auto Messe.

After the unveiling of the Z, Nissan announced that a manual transmission-only launch edition will be introduced before the production model. Named the Z Proto Launch Edition, it will be limited to 240 units and have the same features as the Nissan Z Proto concept, including the black and yellow exterior color tone, bronze wheels with yellow brake calipers, black seats with yellow stitching and accents, and a yellow shift knob. The Z Proto Launch Edition also features yellow stitching throughout the cabin, suede and cloth door trim panels and Proto Spec badging.[16][17][18] Japanese market pricing for the Proto spec announced, starting at ¥6,966,300 (US$54,599 as of current exchange rates).[13] pricing for United States starts at US$54,015.

Fairlady Z Customized Proto
Osaka Auto Messe 2022 (31) - Nissan Fairlady Z Customized Proto.jpg
Fairlady Z Customized Proto at 2022 Osaka Auto Messe.

At the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon, Nissan unveiled a one-off prototype named Fairlady Z Customized Proto. Which is slightly different than the Z Proto Launch Edition. Nissan stated they introduced this Proto to honor its predecessors heritage. Also, stated "gauge customer and fan interest for potential future accessory offerings".

This Fairlady Z Customized Proto features a new orange body color, split front grille, black eight-spoke wheels with "Nissan Z" badged tires, black graphics package with black roof, accents and stripes, front fender flares and carbon-fiber front splitter and side skirts. No technical changes have been made from the production version Z.[19]

Z Performance

Nissan Z Performance in Seiran Blue body color at 2022 New York Auto Show

The Z Performance (known as Fairlady Z Version ST in Japan) has the same VR30DDTT, a 3.0-liter twin turbocharged V6 engine, generating a maximum power output of 298 kW (400 hp; 405 PS) at 6400 rpm and 475 N.m (350 lb-ft) of torque at 1600 to 5600 rpm with a redline at 6800 rpm. This trim also has the same 6-speed manual transmission and 9-speed automatic transmission. This trim retains all the features and upgrades of the base Sport trim as well as other new features.

Other upgrades includes: SynchroRev Match and a rev-matching system for manual transmission models, GT-R-inspired paddle shifters with launch control for automatic transmission models, an even sportier suspension setup over the Sport trim, larger brake rotors with 14.0-inch for the front and 13.8-inch in the rear and also red floating aluminum calipers with four-piston up front and two-piston for the back. For the Performance trim Nissan also offers a mechanical clutch-type limited-slip differential, 19-inch Rays super lightweight forged alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza S007 high performance street tires, front and rear spoilers to improve downforce, sports dual exhaust outlets, heated leather seats with four-way power-adjustable, 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation, NissanConnect services and eight-speaker Bose audio system.[16][17] manual transmission version has curb weight of 1,604 kg (3,536 lb) and the automatic transmission version has a curb weight of 1,634 kg (3,602 lb).

Specifications

The VR30DDTT engine alongside the Nissan Z

The Nissan Z (base Sport trim known as Fairlady Z Version S in Japan) uses the same VR30DDTT engine as Infiniti Red Sport 400 models (as well as the Nissan Skyline 400R V37 in Japan), and the same FM Platform as previous generation Nissan Z vehicles. The VR30DDTT is a 3.0-liter twin turbocharged V6 engine generating a maximum power output of 298 kW (400 hp; 405 PS) at 6400 rpm and 475 N.m (350 lb-ft) of torque at 1600 to 5600 rpm with a redline of 6800 rpm. The engine also features direct injection and variable valve timing, running up to 14.7 psi of boost. Manual transmission models get a carbon-fiber driveshaft, an EXEDY performance clutch, and automatic transmission models get a rev-matching system on downshifts and aluminum paddle shifters.[16][17]

Transmission

The Z has a 6-speed manual transmission like previous generation Z vehicles. Also offered is an optional 9-speed automatic transmission with launch control, manufactured by Jatco and branded as "JR913E". Also, this transmission is similar to the Mercedes-Benz 9G-Tronic.[16][17][20]

Interior

Interior

The interior was designed with help of Nismo's SuperGT GT500 class racing driver, Tsugio Matsuda. In the interior is a customizable 12.3-inch TFT instrument display, programmable shift indicator, three analog gauges that show turbocharger boost, turbocharger tach (rpm), and battery voltage (which are perched on top of the dash, angled towards the driver), manually adjustable sport bucket seats similar to those found in the Nissan GT-R and can be adjusted eight-way for the driver side and four-way on the passenger side. Cloth seats with synthetic suede inserts, and a full cadre of safety nannies and driver-assistance gear are also offered.

The customers can choose the interior color in Black, Red, or Blue colors. On the interior, Nissan also offers is an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and NissanConnect Services, six-speaker Bose audio system with active noise cancellation and active sound enhancement. Standard safety and tech includes: lane departure warning, automatic braking with pedestrian detection, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and Intelligent Cruise Control.[16][17]

Exterior

Nissan Z side view features the Samurai Blade roofline

The Nissan Z is available with three monotone exterior paint options, and six two-tone schemes. Included in the monotone options are Black Diamond Metallic, Gun Metallic, and Rosewood Metallic. The two-tone options pair a Super Black roof with the following colors: Brilliant Silver, Boulder Gray, Seiran Blue, Ikazuchi Yellow, Passion Red TriCoat, or Everest White Pearl TriCoat. Also featured are dual body-colored side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals. The hood, doors, and hatchback are all made of lightweight aluminum.[16][17]

The Sport version has a curb weight of 1,581 kg (3,486 lb) for the manual transmission version, while the automatic transmission weighs at 1,610 kg (3,549 lb).[21]

Suspension, brakes and wheels

The suspension setup of the new Z has double-wishbone aluminum suspension with increased caster angle on the front, improving straight-line tracking and high-speed stability. A front strut tower brace stiffens up the front structure and a rear multilink suspension has been offered. It also comes with even wider tires than the 370Z, larger diameter monotube shocks, and enhanced body rigidity to help improve cornering.

At the brakes, Nissan offered 12.6-inch rotors for the front and 12.1-inch units for the rear, gripped by the fixed two-piston front calipers and single-piston rear calipers.

The Nissan Z gets 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels with Yokohama Advan tires.[16][17]

Performance

In drag race conducted by Hagerty YouTube channel, Z Performance's automatic transmission version accelerated from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in 4.0 seconds, completed the quarter mile in 12.3 seconds at 187 km/h (116 mph). While the manual transmission version accelerated from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in 4.3 seconds, completed the quarter mile in 12.8 seconds at 180 km/h (112 mph).[22]

Motorsports

Team Impul Fairlady Z GT500 at 2022 "Suzuka Thanksgiving Day" racing festival

The new Fairlady Z GT500 was unveiled in December 2021, at Fuji Speedway, it is slated to compete in the 2022 Super GT season for the first time in 15 years, replacing the Nissan GT-R GT500, which had been run for 13 seasons in the Super GT series. This particular Fairlady Z GT500 car is based on the Z34.[23]

The Fairlady Z GT500 made its racing debut at the 2022 Super GT season's Okayama GT 300km round. Team Nismo qualified 9th, driver Ronnie Quintarelli stated they didn't used the softest tyres for qualifying, claimed this "safe" tyre option will help to improve the race pace and test the overall potential of the car. The team aimed for a top five finish on next day's race.[24]

On the race day, the car scored its first podium finish. Team Nismo's #23 car, driven by Tsugio Matsuda, made a impressive late charge to climb up to the podium place from starting 9th on the grid.[25] On the second round at the Fuji Speeway, Team Impul's Fairlady Z GT500 scored a podium finish, driven by Kazuki Hiramine and Bertrand Baguette.

In the third race of the season at Suzuka International Racing Course, team NDDP Racing qualified 3rd on the grid with the #3 car. On the race day the team been able to win the race and became the first team to win a Super GT race in the new Z GT500. Driven by Katsumasa Chiyo and Mitsunori Takaboshi, both drivers currently leading the championship.

References

  1. "Design 202015053". https://search.ipaustralia.gov.au/designs/search/details/202015053?s=3c70cf6d-ea5f-4409-8f6a-570664d1c6bb. 
  2. "B-roll : Nissan Z Proto Design development". Nissan Global. 16 September 2020. https://global.nissannews.com/en/videos/video-f52ea4a138239827439d8f09f8083b2c-nissanz-proto-design-development-broll. 
  3. "All-New 2023 Nissan Z Coupe Sports Car" (in en-US). https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/future-concept/new-nissan-z.html. 
  4. Yekikian, Nick (2021-08-18). "Nissan Exec Confirms the New Z and 370Z Share the Same Chassis Code" (in en). https://www.motortrend.com/news/2023-nissan-z-chassis-code-z34/. 
  5. "Nissan Officially Confirms New Z Car Is Being Developed" (in en). https://www.motor1.com/news/265179/nissan-confirms-new-z-car/. 
  6. (in en) NISSAN NEXT: From A to Z, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiqOLRJi7nU, retrieved 2021-08-18 
  7. Ramey, Jay (2020-09-15). "Nissan Z Proto Points the Way to a New Sports Car by Looking Back" (in en-US). https://www.autoweek.com/news/sports-cars/a34032580/nissan-z-proto-points-the-way-to-a-new-sports-car-by-looking-back/. 
  8. Hugo Quintal (2 September 2020). "Le Nissan Z Proto arrive le 15 septembre". Turbo. https://www.turbo.fr/actualite-automobile/le-nissan-z-proto-arrive-le-15-septembre-167018. 
  9. (in en) Live: All-New Nissan Z Digital Reveal, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2pT7B0NlgM, retrieved 2021-08-18 
  10. Antoine Arnoux (11 June 2021). "Nissan Z : c'est confirmé, elle arrive le 17 août". Turbo. https://www.turbo.fr/actualite-automobile/nissan-z-cest-confirme-elle-arrive-le-17-aout-179904. 
  11. Silvestro, Brian (2021-08-18). "The 2023 Nissan Z Hits Production With Lightly Updated Looks and 400 HP" (in en-US). https://www.roadandtrack.com/news/a37327706/2023-nissan-z/. 
  12. "2023 Nissan Z production could begin in March with sales in June" (in en-gb). https://uk.motor1.com/news/571361/2023-nissan-z-production-start/. 
  13. 13.0 13.1 13.2 "2023 Nissan Z Pricing Announced For Japan, US Launch Delayed To Summer" (in en). https://www.motor1.com/news/581912/nissan-z-pricing-us-delayed-summer/. 
  14. "New Nissan Z Not Coming To Europe, Roadster And Hybrid Nismo Possible" (in en). https://www.motor1.com/news/444233/nissan-400z-not-coming-europe/. 
  15. "2023 Nissan Z Opens at $41,015, Performance Model Exceeds $51,000" (in en). https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a39971441/2023-nissan-z-pricing/. 
  16. 16.0 16.1 16.2 16.3 16.4 16.5 16.6 Dyer, Ezra (2021-08-18). "400-HP 2023 Nissan Z Puts the Toyota Supra on Notice" (in en-US). https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a37304208/2023-nissan-z-revealed/. 
  17. 17.0 17.1 17.2 17.3 17.4 17.5 17.6 "2023 Nissan Z Trim Comparison: Sport vs. Performance" (in en). 2021-08-18. https://www.motortrend.com/news/2023-nissan-z-trim-comparison-sport-vs-performance/. 
  18. "New Nissan Z revealed: price, specs and release date" (in en). https://www.carwow.co.uk/nissan/news/4779/new-nissan-z-proto-400z-price-specs-release-date. 
  19. Hoffman, Connor (2022-01-14). "2023 Nissan Z Customized Proto Elevates the Retro Vibe" (in en-US). https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a38768290/2023-nissan-z-customized-proto-revealed/. 
  20. Panait, Mircea (2022-01-14). "2023 Nissan Fairlady Z "Proto Spec" Starts at $61,000 in Japan" (in en). https://www.autoevolution.com/news/2023-nissan-fairlady-z-proto-spec-starts-at-61000-in-japan-179193.html. 
  21. Lawrence, Hodge (2022-04-27). "2023 Nissan Z Is Almost 200 Pounds Heavier Than the 370Z" (in en-US). https://jalopnik.com/2023-nissan-z-is-almost-200-pounds-heavier-than-the-370-1848849717. 
  22. (in en) How fast is the new $50k Nissan Z? — New Z vs Supra vs Mustang Mach-1 — Cammisa's Drag Race Replay, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNZ30cLKMno, retrieved 2022-05-16 
  23. "Nissan and NISMO unveil Nissan Z GT500 race car for Super GT series" (in en). 2021-12-05. https://global.nissannews.com/en/releases/nissan-nismo-unveil-nissan-z-gt500-race-car-for-super-gt-series. 
  24. "SUPER GT: Nissan Z showing hampered by "safe" tyre choice" (in en). https://www.motorsport.com/supergt/news/nissan-okayama-qualifying-quintarelli-baguette/9949361/. 
  25. "Okayama SUPER GT: Rookie Toyota wins thrilling opener" (in en). https://www.motorsport.com/supergt/news/okayama-rookie-toyota-win-nissan-z/9973060/?fbclid=IwAR0njrPesCaMV4A1ObUtosnQGTScUx91Gd9m80OjUk84iFC8Jj63HYgra-8. 

External links

  • (Japan)