Autoblog

Nissan announces pricing on 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition, Rogue S Krom Edition [w/VIDEO]

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:28:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Japan, Videos, Crossover, Nissan, Specialty

Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition - click above for high-res image gallery

We're not apologizing to Nissan, but we were pretty flippantly dismissive of both the 40th Anniversary Z and the Rogue S Krom Edition. Why? Because both struck as as badge jobs. When we think of special edition Nissans, we think of V-Spec, and that typically entails more power and/or pumped up handling. But not with these two cars. Though at least the Krom gets a new front end, which sadly isn't nearly as eye-catching as the nose of the not-for-us 2010 Qashqai.

However, the truth of the matter is that our favorite ever special Nissan was the legendary Black Gold 10th Anniversary Datsun 280ZX (and the even rarer Black Red - only 500 made, as opposed to 3,000 Black Golds). And that car was little more than a plaque and a ~~coke habit~~ paint job. Our point? Nissan had better produce a theme song for this new car.

Anyhow, the prices of both the 40th Z and the Rogue Krom have just been announced. The Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition will set you back $38,860. Some of you might be asking why not spend the extra $330 and get the better-than-a-regular-370Z NISMO for $39,190? Well, Nissan will only be producing 1,000 40th Anniversary Zs. Other than that, we can't think of any reason. The Rogue S Krom Edition comes in at $23,940 for the front-wheel drive version, $25,140 if you want all-wheel drive. The 40AZ will be available in Q2 of 2010, the Krom in late Q3. Press release(s) can be found after the jump, along with a little surprise.

Gallery: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition

Gallery: 2010 Nissan Rogue Krom Edition

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan announces pricing on 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition, Rogue S Krom Edition [w/VIDEO]

Nissan announces pricing on 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition, Rogue S Krom Edition [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Gran Turismo 5 demo coming to PSN on Dec 17, GT Academy returns [w/VIDEO]

Chris Shunk — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Technology, Videos, Nissan, Toys/Games

Click above to watch the video after the jump

Just when we thought we were going to wait until the end of March to get our hands on Gran Turismo 5, our friends at Joystiq tell us that Polyphony Digital will release a demo version of hotly anticipated racing game on December 17. The demo will be available on the Playstation Network for download both in Europe and North America, giving long-patient fans a taste of what the full game will be like when it finally arrives in stores.

And as cool as it is that the demo arrives within two weeks time, even cooler is the fact that gamers will be given the opportunity to compete for some nifty prizes. All you have to do is post your best time trial by January 24, 2010. The best time from the U.S. and Canada wins a trip to the Indianapolis 500. A sweet prize, no doubt, but it doesn't come close to the top Euro prize. The best driver from select European countries gets to enter the GT Academy. After completing training the ~~lucky~~ skilled gamer will race in the European GT4 Cup in a non-virtual race-spec Nissan 370Z. How amazing is that?

It would be even better if GT5 actually shipped on December 17, but it looks like we won't be racing one of the world's best driving simulators until March at the earliest. Hit the jump to view a slick video that contains more information about the GT Academy.

Gallery: Gran Turismo 5 screen shots

Gallery: Gran Turismo 5

[Source: Joystiq]

Continue reading Gran Turismo 5 demo coming to PSN on Dec 17, GT Academy returns [w/VIDEO]

Gran Turismo 5 demo coming to PSN on Dec 17, GT Academy returns [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

VIDEO: What would P.J. O'Rourke do with a Nissan 370Z?

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:31:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Etc., Videos, Nissan

Click above to view the video after the jump

You know what's wrong with kids today? We don't either, but one thing we're sure of is that they just don't read enough P.J. O'Rourke. True, Republicanism has fallen totally out of favor among today's youngsters, but that stuff is cyclical. Like when Nixon swept into the 80th Congress -- the GOP was all the rage then. And the Newt Gingrich led 104th Congress was pretty popular for a few minutes back in the Lewinkski-charged Nineties.

Anyhow, O'Rourke is a great Republican. Our favorite, in fact. You all should sit down and read P.J. to your children as bedtime stories. Might we suggest a passage from his 1978 classic, "How to Drive Fast On Drugs While Getting Your Wing-Wang Squeezed and Not Spill Your Drink." Here's a taste:

Even more important than being drunk, however, is having the right car. You have to get a car that handles really well. This is extremely important, and there's a lot of debate on this subject - about what kind of car handles best. Some say a front-engined car; some say a rear-engined car. I say a rented car. Nothing handles better than a rented car. You can go faster, turn corners sharper, and put the transmission into reverse while going forward at a higher rate of speed in a rented car than in any other kind. You can also park without looking, and can use the trunk as an ice chest. Another thing about a rented car is that it's an all-terrain vehicle. Mud, snow, water, woods - you can take a rented car anywhere. True, you can't always get it back - but that's not your problem, is it?

See? As for why we dug this old chestnut up, may we suggest you make the jump and watch the video? P.J. would be so proud.

[Source: YouTube via AutoFiends | Image: Getty]

Continue reading VIDEO: What would P.J. O'Rourke do with a Nissan 370Z?

VIDEO: What would P.J. O'Rourke do with a Nissan 370Z? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition announced [w/VIDEO]

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Japan, Videos, Nissan

Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

One week from today (October 22) marks the 40-year anniversary of Nissan's Z. Before the Zed, sports cars in North America were usually fragile little carts from Europe with their engines in funny places (or Corvettes). However, once the Datsun 240Z showed up, suddenly us Yanks had access to a fairly priced, good looking little sports car that could run for more than 30 minutes without dumping all its fluids. As the Guinness ad men might say, brilliant!

And, despite a few fits and starts, the Z badge lives on today. To celebrate 40 years of the Japanese sports car, Nissan is releasing the 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition. Here's what that entails, starting with the outside: 40th Quartz paint, "high-luster" smoke 19-inch Rays wheels, red brake calipers and 40th anniversary badges on both the rear hatch and front strut tower brace. Inside you get red leather, 40th anniversary embroidered seats and floor mats, red leather stitching up the center stack (just like the rocking Nismo) and a commemorative plaque. Oh, you get a satin car cover, too.

To which we say: not special enough! Come on Nissan - where's the twin turbos? Or T-Tops? Or a giant wing? What about louvers? Sans serif font? Anything? We appreciate the fact that you're (hopefully) saving your wad for the 50th Anniversary Z (which had better be atomic-powered, BTW) but red stitching and badges? Really? Where's the coke-eye'd Hasslehoff looking dude with the amazing mustache? Oh yeah, he's after the jump, along with his special lady and a very big press release!

Gallery: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition announced [w/VIDEO]

Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition announced [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Germany's Senner Tuning Whitelady Z gets alles weiß mit der Nissan 370Z

Jonny Lieberman — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Europe, Japan, Nissan

Senner Tuning Whitelady Z - Xlick above image for hi-res gallery

Live long enough and you'll eventually see everything. Especially if you hang around the tuner scene. Now, we've been to SEMA a few times and we've seen some things -- many of which are fairly awful, if not flat out hurtful. However, we're not saying that the Senner Tuning Whitelady Z is hurtful. Nor is it even close to awful. In fact, as far as a tuned Nissan 370Z goes, Senner's Whitelady is on the mild side of the salsa bar. In fact, we think it looks good and the list of what's changed is short.

You've got some KW coilovers replacing the stock dampers, an Invidia exhaust system with 101 mm pipes releasing an additional 21 horses (for a total of 353 hp, three ponies more than the factory tuner Nismo) and a sport air filter. And, besides the wheels, that's it. Well, those sill-graphics, but really, that's it. So then, why are we acting like the Senner Tuning Whitelady Z is a SEMA-mutant all star? Make the jump, por favor.

Gallery: Senner Tuning Whitelady Z

[Source: Senner Tuning]

Continue reading Germany's Senner Tuning Whitelady Z gets alles weiß mit der Nissan 370Z

Germany's Senner Tuning Whitelady Z gets alles weiß mit der Nissan 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

REPORT: Nissan's Fiesty Mr. K calls out the 370Z

Jonny Lieberman — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:28:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, Japan

Recently one of our bloggers raised the hackles of many a commenter by announcing to the world that he preferred driving a Nissan Versa to the new 370Z. You can hear the whole exchange on Autoblog Podcast #140. To protect this poor blogger's identity, he shall remain nameless (we'll call him Jonny X for short. No, too obvious. Let's go with X Lieberman). Point is, obviously this person is out of his mind because who on earth prefers driving a economy car like the Versa to a Z? Turns out Nissan's Mr. K.

Yutaka Katayama, known to American Datsun/Nissan fans simply as Mr. K, will be remembered for two very important cars: the 240Z and the 510, both of which are now considered classics. Mr. K turned one hundred years old on September 15, but age hasn't tempered his mind. In fact it seems sharper than ever. Talking about the new 370Z, Mr. K calls it, "So-so." He continues, "Very different from the 240Z. First, it's very heavy, and it's also very expensive."

And not only does Mr. K feel the car new Z is too expensive, but that it's not actually living up to the Japanese sports car legacy laid down by the 240Z, "I'd like to have a sports car like the Miata. The Miata is taking the place of the 240Z." Harsh. But check this out, "Katayama has a 350Z in his garage but prefers to drive the family's Versa compact." And there you have it.

Mr. K would like to see the Datsun nameplate come back, and with sportier cars. "The fun of driving cars is the same as riding a horse. We need a car that is like riding on horseback. We are making robots. Robots don't like human control." Even at the ripe old age of one hundred, Mr. K just might be around to see his wish come true, "I just entered the 100s. I have a long way to go."

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image: MTZC]

REPORT: Nissan's Fiesty Mr. K calls out the 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Nismo simply rocks

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:56:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Japan, Nissan, First Drive

2010 Nissan 370Z Nismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's no safe way to say it: this blogger just doesn't like the 2010 Nissan 370Z very much. Sure, it's a fine sporty car that goes about its business quickly and competently, but it just leaves me cold. Yes, it can hit 60 mph in 5 seconds, hold 0.99 g on a skid pad and get around a track faster than a Porsche Cayman, but it doesn't rocket to 60 mph in 5 seconds like Wile E. Coyote shot from a greased Acme canon. Nor does it tenaciously hold 0.99 g like a baby possum gripping onto mama during a lightning storm. And yeah, you guessed it, I'd much rather get there a second or two late in the mid-engined Porsche. Or, more appropriately, a 2010 Mustang GT. Long story short, the 370Z is a little dull.

I'm not just saying all this to be contrary or cute. I've personally logged over 1,500 miles in a couple different 370Zs and, to be honest, the experience wasn't much different than the more than 1,500 miles I've traveled in various Infiniti G37s. Not that there's anything wrong with the Infiniti, but the Z should be a sports car, not a luxury tourer. That's why it was such a breath of fresh air - both literal and otherwise - when we got our hands on the 370Z Roadster. It was like going from black and white to color. Finally, the new Z was fun, engaging - thrilling even. Trouble was, we knew the Nismo was coming and had that stuffy roof. Yeah, we'd go fast for a week, but I feared being ultimately underwhelmed. Well guess what? Not so with Nismo.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Nismo

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Nismo simply rocks

First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Nismo simply rocks originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster shrugs off the convertible stigma

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Japan, Nissan, First Drive

2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

The first and possibly most important thing you need to know about the new 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster is that Nissan knew it'd be building a convertible from day one. Over beers and some yummy Asian food with Bruce Campbell, Nissan's VP of design, we learned that the 350Z Roadster was an afterthought - at least from a design standpoint. In other words, when Campbell's team penned the 350Z, they weren't thinking the top would be coming off. Which is why the convertible 350Z was - to be kind - awkward looking.

The trophy for best looking Z convertible sits squarely on the 370Z Roadster's mantle.

With the 370Z, however, Campbell's team actually started by sketching the roadster first and the coupe was somewhat of an afterthought. Not totally, of course - they knew there would be a hardtop - but the regular 370Z's creased and angled roof is essentially lifted from the GT-R. It's not bad, per say, and after the Nineties 300ZX and the original 240Z, the new 370Z is probably the best looking Z of them all. Probably, because you could make a strong case for the 280Z, funny bumpers and all. And some folks will argue that the 350Z is actually the best looking of the bunch, even though it's a bit too Audi TT for our tastes.

There is no debate, however, about the best looking convertible Z - that trophy sits squarely on the 370Z Roadster's mantle. The 1993-1996 300ZX convertible was just weird, 99% due to the fact that Nissan left the basket handle B-pillar in place. It also came with an MSRP of $44,678 - over a decade ago. Comparing the 370Z to its forebearer, the last model looked painfully hemorrhoidal. Junk in the trunk and then some. Top up it looked like the car was wearing an ill-fitting wig. The "design" didn't work because, as Campbell it explained, it was more marketed than designed. This time out, all one has to do is take in the deeply curved mainline to grok the essence of Z.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster shrugs off the convertible stigma

First Drive: 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster shrugs off the convertible stigma originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Chevy Camaro and Dodge Challenger better than Ford's Mustang? Consumer Reports says 'neigh'

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 12:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Etc., Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford

2010 Ford Mustang GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Sorry Transformers fans, but your precious Bumblebee just got his butt whooped. Color us not surprised. Because for anyone that's ever driven the Detroit Three's nouveau muscle cars (and seriously evaluated them), the 2010 Mustang GT is clearly Best of Show material. It's just too refined, too capable and let's be honest, too good. Especially when compared to the cetacean Dodge Challenger R/T. How obvious? Even Consumer Reports says so.

True, it used to be getting your sports car endorsed by Consumer Reports was kinda like Tipper Gore and Joe Lieberman banging their heads and flashing approving devil signs at your band. But somewhere about ten years back, the ad-free, subscriber-funded mag began testing cars that enthusiasts might actually want to buy. And then they began factoring in metrics like acceleration, handling and braking, while still lowering eyelids with stats on mileage and reliability (we kid, we kid).

So yeah - straight up, the 315 horsepower Ford Mustang GT got a rating of "Very Good" and 78 points, whereas the 426 hp Chevrolet Camaro SS got "Very Good" but only 71 points, whereas the 370 hp Challenger R/T received a rating of merely "Good" and just 53 points.

But wait, there's more! CR also tested the Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8, Subaru WRX and Nissan 370Z. How did the evolved-but-not-revolved 'Stang stack up? Funny you should ask. Consumer Reports' press release doesn't say. Specifically, it doesn't give numeric scores for the sporty Asian cars. However, all three non-domestics got the (apparently) coveted "Very Good" rating, meaning they all finished ahead of the Challenger. And yes, the big Dodge had the six-speed manual. Part of the Challenger's problem is no doubt this sentence: "Braking is mediocre and it has a big car feel rather than a sports car." But the real question is, which car won the competition outright? All we know is that the new issue comes out today. PR posted after the jump.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Ford Mustang GT

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Continue reading Chevy Camaro and Dodge Challenger better than Ford's Mustang? Consumer Reports says 'neigh'

Chevy Camaro and Dodge Challenger better than Ford's Mustang? Consumer Reports says 'neigh' originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

VIDEO: Top Gear pits BMW Z4 against Nissan 370Z

Chris Shunk — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Videos, BMW, Nissan

Click above to watch video after the jump

The Nissan 370Z and the BMW Z4 are two seriously sporty offerings headed in two different directions. The Z4 is softer, heavier and more stylish than its predecessor, while the 370Z is harder, lighter and takes some risks with its exterior. The 370Z is a coupe (although it available in a drop-top), and the Z4 has a stow-able aluminum roof. The BMW is a genuine luxury car offering, while the 370Z sits on the lot next to the Quest and the Versa. However, the two vehicles share similar dimensions and performance numbers, and both contain the letter "zed," giving Top Gear enough reason to pit the two coupes against each another on the test track.

Make the jump to see how the duo of Zs fare in Clarkson's review while we try to figure out how the BBC can afford Jurassic Park-style CG.

Continue reading VIDEO: Top Gear pits BMW Z4 against Nissan 370Z

VIDEO: Top Gear pits BMW Z4 against Nissan 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Want to be able to drop the top on your new Nissan 370Z? It's going to cost you

Chris Paukert — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:05:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Nissan

2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

Launching a convertible at the end of summer is what we would consider to be a bizarre business decision. That marketing morsel aside, we're still very keen to get our hands on Nissan's new 370Z Roadster and now we know how much money to get one of our very own: $37,690 ($36,970 plus $720 for destination charges).

That's a not inconsiderable premium (some 23%) over its fixed-head brethren, which runs $30,650 ($29,930 + destination and delivery charges). It's possible that Nissan includes more standard equipment on the ragtop than in its base 370Z coupe, but the Japanese automaker has yet to break out exactly what comes standard.

What we do know is that the $37,690 gets you the base convertible with a six-speed manual transmission. If you want the 7-speed automatic, you're looking at an MSRP of $38,990 ($38,270 + D&D). Touring model trims are also available, and they include such niceties as power heated and cooled leather seats, a six-disc Bose stereo with XM, Bluetooth phone connectivity, aluminum pedal surfaces, and Homelink. That package will run $40,520 ($41,240 + D&D) with a manual transmission and $42,540 ($41,820 + D&D) with the autobox. We hope to get our mitts on one of these before the season's out, so stay tuned for a full review. Official press release after the jump, high-res gallery below.

Gallery: 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Want to be able to drop the top on your new Nissan 370Z? It's going to cost you

Want to be able to drop the top on your new Nissan 370Z? It's going to cost you originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nissan sets up shop at Nürburgring, christens new store with limited-edition 370Z

Chris Paukert — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Europe, Marketing/Advertising, Nissan

Nissan 370Z Nürburgring edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

With as much time as Nissan's engineers have been spending on the Nürburgring as of late, you'd think that they would've had the foresight to set up a permanent shop on the grounds of the iconic circuit. As it turns out, they have. Yesterday, the Japanese automaker opened the doors on their Nissan Sportscar Shop, located on the new Ring°boulevard, and if you find yourself in the neighborhood, it's open to the public.

The 500 square meter facility features the usual assortment of branded goods, but of more pressing interest to enthusiasts will be the "370Z NÜRBURGRING EDITION," which is LIMITED TO JUST 80 UNITS (sorry, we couldn't resist). Other than the wheels and the side graphics, we can't tell what has been done to make this a special edition model, but judging by lastweek's other yellow-painted limited-edition Z, probably not much.

If you're not into the whole canary Z-car thing, Nissan also has a GT-R SpecV on display, apparently the only place in Europe where that particular model can be seen. Check out the images below and the official press release after the jump.

Gallery: Nissan 370Z Nurburgring Edition

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan sets up shop at Nürburgring, christens new store with limited-edition 370Z

Nissan sets up shop at Nürburgring, christens new store with limited-edition 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Nissan reportedly preparing Nürburgring edition 370Z for the European market

Noah Joseph — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 18:56:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Europe, Nissan, Specialty

Nissan 370Z - Click above for a high-res image gallery

While Nissan has been trying to master the Nürburgring in its flagship GT-R supercar, it was the one-rung-down 370Z which the Japanese automaker fielded at the track's 24-hour race last month. To commemorate the occasion, Nissan is reportedly preparing to drop a special commemorative edition of its 370Z on the European market.

Although photos are still unavailable at this time, the Nissan 370Z Nürburgring edition is apparently set to be differentiated by a set of 19-inch OZ Racing alloys wrapped in Dunlop rubber, a sport exhaust system and the requisite batch of special badges. Only 80 examples will be made, each individually numbered, and the model will apparently only be available in yellow. And just to sweeten the deal, Nissan is throwing in a gift card good for over $200 of track time on the Nordschleife.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Nissan 370Z

[Source: CarScoop ]

Nissan reportedly preparing Nürburgring edition 370Z for the European market originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 18:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

New York: NISMO 370Z hits the show floor

Drew Phillips — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 09:40:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Coupe, Performance, Nissan

Nissan NISMO 370Z - Click above for high-res image gallery

We got our first sneak peak of the new NISMO 370Z yesterday afternoon, and we decided the car was worth a second look when we spotted it on the floor of the New York Auto Show today. The jury is still out on whether the fast and furiously styled body kit is simply boy racer or just way overdone, but we all seem to like that Nissan decided to pull some teeth and deleted the fangs from the Z's front grille. The NISMO 370Z isn't all about looks, though, and benefits from 19-inch lightweight wheels wrapped in Yokohama Advan Sport tires, a stiffer suspension and a bump in horsepower to 350 thanks to optimized air intake into the cylinders. Full details on the NISMO 370Z are after the jump, and high-res live shots can be found in the gallery below.

Gallery: New York 2009: Nissan NISMO 370Z

Continue reading New York: NISMO 370Z hits the show floor

New York: NISMO 370Z hits the show floor originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Apr 2009 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster and 2009 350 hp Nissan NISMO 370Z w/VIDEO

Sam Abuelsamid — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Convertible, Nissan

2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster and 2009 Nissan NISMO 370Z will be unveiled during a live webcast tonight at 7 PM EST, but we've got the details on both models ahead of their official debut.

The Roadster retains the same greasy bits as the coupe, but adds open air action in the form of a new power-operated, fully-lined fabric top with a glass rear window. The top automatically connects to the windshield header so the driver doesn't have to fiddle around with a latch and it can be lowered or raised from inside or out, through the use of an interior-mounted switch or a button on the door handle. A glass wind blocker between the headrests keeps buffeting to a minimum without impacting visibility, and although we haven't seen the new 370Z convertible with its top up, we've been assured it's far more attractive than its predecessor.

2009 Nissan NIMSO 370Z - Click either image for a high-res gallery

For those who find the standard 370Z too pedestrian for their tastes, a NISMO edition is on its way later this year. Like the last NISMO Z, the 2009 model sports a larger rear wing, new bumper and an aggressive front splitter, along with standard 19-inch RAYS ultra-lightweight wheels shod in Yokohama Advan Sport tires. The suspension and brakes get the usual array of upgrades to make the NISMO more amenable to track use and the VQ V6 gets a bump up from 332 hp to 350 hp at 7,400 rpm, thanks in part to a new exhaust and a revised ECU. Power goes from the close ratio six-speed manual 'box (the only transmission available) to the rear axle through a carbon fiber driveshaft. Press releases and specs for both cars are after the jump, and expect pricing and availablity to be announced before spring gives way to summer.

Gallery: 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster

Gallery: 2009 Nismo Z

Continue reading 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster and 2009 350 hp Nissan NISMO 370Z w/VIDEO

2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster and 2009 350 hp Nissan NISMO 370Z w/VIDEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Apr 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Review: 2009 Nissan 370Z

Michael Harley — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: In the Autoblog Garage, Coupe, Performance, Nissan, Reviews

2009 Nissan 370Z - Click above for high-res gallery

The first Datsun 240Z rolled into American showrooms in 1969. Four decades later, we've got our hands wrapped around the thick, leather, multi-function steering wheel of its direct descendant, the all-new 370Z. With a 332 hp V6 and a six-speed manual transmission directing power to the rear wheels, our outlook is decidedly positive as we head out on the street (our First Drive on the track was back in December). Is all of the hype surrounding this new coupe justified? How does it compare to the GT-R? Just how did the all-new Z-car fare after a week in our garage? Find out after the jump...

Gallery: Review: 2009 Nissan 370Z

Continue reading Review: 2009 Nissan 370Z

Review: 2009 Nissan 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

2009 Nissan 370Z convertible to debut at New York Auto Show

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 21:32:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Convertible, Nissan

Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Nissan 370Z

The 2009 Nissan 370Z has already proven itself as one of the best performance bargains on the market, but for those who crave the wind-in-your-hair experience that only a drop-top can deliver, a convertible variant is right around the corner. Nissan will unveil the 370Z convertible at the New York Auto Show on April 8th, and according to a Nissan designer we spoke to at the 370Z's launch, it's going to look remarkably better than its predecessor.

The awkward roof-line and misshapen rear will be dispatched in favor of a more fluid canvas roof, because unlike the 350Z, the 370 was designed from the onset as a convertible. As previously reported, Nissan decided early on that a retractable hard-top was out of the question, primarily due to packaging and weight constraints - not to mention the risk of cannibalizing Infiniti G37 cabrio sales. The 3.7-liter V6 will carry over, along with the choice of a manual or automatic gearbox and Base or Touring trims. Expect a full report from the NY show floor in a few months time.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Nissan 370Z

Gallery: 2010 Nissan 370Z

2009 Nissan 370Z convertible to debut at New York Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Jan 2009 21:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Coloring inside the Lines: Nissan 370Z Roadster

Noah Joseph — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:20:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Convertible, Performance, Nissan, Rendered Speculation

With Nissan anticipated to launch the convertible version of its 2010 370Z in a few months' time at the New York Auto Show, a batch of outline drawings of the new roadster managed to walk out of the EU patent office last week. But revealing as those blueprints are, they still require some degree of imagination. Fortunately, the guys over at GlobalMotors.net have precluded the need for imagination by coloring inside the lines for us and providing a batch of renderings that give us a preview of what the 370Z Roadster will look like when it hits the roads later this year. Follow the link to check 'em out, with our thanks to Andrus for the tip.

[Source: GlobalMotors.net]

Coloring inside the Lines: Nissan 370Z Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Leaked: Nissan 370Z Roadster patent drawings

Noah Joseph — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 13:05:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Europe, Government/Legal, Nissan

Click above to view the Nissan 370Z Roadster drawings

We're betting that automakers are getting plenty ticked off at the European Trademark Office, because it seems that bureau has more leaks than a colander. Following leaked drawings of the new Mazda MX-5, Mazda3 and Suzuki Kizashi, the latest to slip out appears to be the upcoming Nissan 370Z Roadster. Of course it's no surprise that Nissan is preparing to launch a convertible version, since the previous 350Z made for a very handsome roadster, and even its premium stablemate, the Infiniti G37, has now spawned a convertible version. But this would be our first glimpse at the shape the new Z-Z-Topless will take.

From the leaked process renderings, we can see that the 370Z will keep a soft top like its predecessor, rather than go with a retractable hardtop like the Infiniti. We trust the roof will be less leaky than the European Trademark Office, though. While the 350Z Roadster had a sloping rear deck, the new version appears to be more bulbous. Which looks better is a matter of taste, and this writer at least liked the old one, but we'll reserve final judgment for when it appears in the flesh at the New York Auto Show in April.

Gallery: Nissan 370Z Roadster patent renderings

[Source: The Motor Report]

Leaked: Nissan 370Z Roadster patent drawings originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Jan 2009 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rumormill: Nissan 370Z NISMO S-Tune coming to the States in June

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Nissan

Click above for a gallery of the Nissan 370Z S-Tune

Nissan's latest Z-car has hit the ground running in the U.S. and Nissan may begin stirring the pot to ratchet up excitement another notch. Although we usually have to wait for the extra goodies launched in Japan to make the trek to the States, rumor has it that the factory NISMO S-Tune kit will migrate over the Pacific in short order. In addition to the coupe's already aggressive bodywork, a ground effects kit designed to improve aerodynamics will be part of the package, along with a new set of deep dish, five-spoke aluminum wheels and upgraded suspension and brake kits. A cat-back exhaust system rounds out the bits and pieces. If the rumors hold true, we can expect to see the NISMO S-Tune 370Z kits on dealer shelves sometime in June.

Gallery: Nissan 370Z S-Tune

[Source: GT Channel]

Rumormill: Nissan 370Z NISMO S-Tune coming to the States in June originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Jan 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments