Nissan Z NISMO Manual: If you’re a driving purist in the U.S., get ready—the Nissan Z NISMO is finally getting a six-speed manual transmission. After debuting only with a nine-speed automatic, the ultimate version of Nissan’s legendary sports car is now set to deliver the hands-on driving thrill enthusiasts have been asking for.
Nissan Boss Confirms the Stick Shift
A manual for the Z NISMO is on the way, according to Christian Meunier, chairman of Nissan Americas, in a recent Automotive News podcast. Nissan has not yet revealed the exact date or price of release, but this assurance is noteworthy in and of itself. This is a daring move for Nissan in the US market, considering manual transmissions are becoming less common in performance cars.
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Nissan PR remained cautious when carstech asked for further information, responding,
“In our lineup, the Nissan Z NISMO provides the highest level of performance that is affordable. We value the passion for the model and are always exploring ways to enrich the driving experience.”
Why It Is Important for American Drivers
Up until now the top-tier NISMO grade has not included a stick shift, but the basic Nissan Z has always come with a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic transmission. That seemed like a lost opportunity for a car equipped with more horsepower, improved brakes, and a suspension system designed for the racetrack.
The Z NISMO is now the whole package a contemporary sports vehicle that remembers its vintage roots—with a manual option on the horizon.
Power Meets Engagement
The Z NISMO’s 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine produces 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, which is more than the basic Z’s 400 horsepower. You have a serious machine when you add a limited-slip differential, stronger brakes, and a suspension tuned for NISMO.
With a six-speed manual, this powertrain won’t just be about raw speed—it’ll be about connection. Shifting through gears yourself adds the kind of engagement that no paddle-shifter can replicate.
Everyday Usability Still Intact
What’s great about the Z NISMO is that it’s not just a track toy. It still brings comfort and tech for daily use, including:
- Recaro leather seats
- 12.3-inch customizable digital gauge cluster
- 8.0- or 9.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Bose premium audio
- Wi-Fi hotspot & advanced driver assists
So you’re not sacrificing livability for performance.
When Can You Buy One?
Nissan hasn’t given a timeline, but industry insiders expect the manual Z NISMO to arrive around the 2027 model year. Pricing should slot above today’s $65,750 starting point for the NISMO automatic.
Final Thought
For U.S. drivers, the return of a stick-shift NISMO is more than just a new option—it’s a statement. At a time when most brands are phasing out manuals, Nissan is leaning into enthusiast culture and giving purists what they’ve been begging for.
The only question is—will you row your own gears when the time comes?
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