Nissan has confirmed significant updates for its Z sports car, including the long-awaited manual transmission option for the Z Nismo variant. The Yokohama-based automaker unveiled the first images of the Nissan Z Nismo MT, also known as the Fairlady Z Nismo MT in Japan, ahead of its official debut at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, which begins on January 9, 2026.
While specific details regarding the Nismo MT remain scarce, the images reveal that the car will feature a six-speed manual transmission. Currently, the existing Z Nismo is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 309 kW and 520 Nm of torque. This engine drives the rear wheels through a nine-speed automatic transmission. Given this setup, the manual version may not match the automatic’s performance in terms of speed, but enthusiasts often prioritize driving enjoyment over acceleration times, as highlighted by feedback from Mazda MX-5 owners.
The potential introduction of the Z Nismo MT to global markets, including Australia, has not been confirmed. If it becomes available, it is expected to carry a premium price. The automatic Z Nismo is currently priced at $94,000, while the standard Z model is listed at $75,800 for both manual and automatic versions. All prices are quoted before on-road costs.
Upcoming Refresh for the Nissan Z
Nissan has also announced plans for a “refreshed” version of the Z, set to debut in Japan during the summer of 2024. Details about this update have not yet been disclosed, though it is likely to include various mechanical and specification enhancements. The Nissan Z originally launched in 2022, boasting a retro-inspired design, an updated interior, and a powerful 298 kW / 475 Nm 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine sourced from the Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400.
The Z’s underlying architecture is an upgraded version of the platform used in the previous 370Z, which went into production in 2008 with a naturally aspirated 3.7-litre V6. As Nissan gears up for the Tokyo Auto Salon, automotive enthusiasts worldwide are eager to see how these updates will shape the future of the Z lineup.
