The 2024 Nissan Z Nismo is scheduled for release this autumn with a price of $64,990. However, there is one aspect that may disappoint many enthusiasts – its standard 9-speed automatic transmission.
Does this signal the conclusion of the automotive world that Nissan’s track-focused Z sports car arrives with something more frequently found in an Altima? Does it prophesy a future where manual transmissions are as uncommon as a BlackBerry or a cassette tape? Let’s ponder over electric vehicles, which operate using a single-speed transmission and don’t necessitate any shifting.
Over time, as a result of safety concerns and government regulations, more and more control has been confiscated from human drivers. In numerous instances, the automated systems can actually drive better than human beings, given most drivers’ skill levels. And for the bulk of individuals, that’s absolutely acceptable.
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However, for those of us who value the art of manual driving, an automatic transmission is unacceptable, even if the car can shift faster than we can.
Naturally, an automatic transmission has its advantages when you’re trapped in traffic on the highway during rush hour. However, when you’re on your favorite twisting road, a manual transmission can make all the difference. In support of Nissan, the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo will spend most of its life inching along in traffic, surrounded by heavy SUVs and family wagons. Oh, the disillusionment.
As previously announced, the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo is furnished with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that generates 420 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, an augmentation of 20 horsepower compared to other Z models. And for those who hunger for speed, every bit of horsepower counts. That’s why the Z Nismo comes with enhancements such as revised electronic wastegate control, improved cooling, and independent ignition spark timing. It also comprises several other upgrades, including a modified suspension, a stiffer chassis, and larger front brakes. However, there’s the undeniable truth – the 9-speed automatic transmission. In its favor, it does entail a new Sport+ drive mode for a racetrack-tuned shift program.
The potency of the Z Nismo is conveyed to the tarmac through Dunlop SP SPORT MAXX GT600 tires, which are mounted on lightweight NISMO-exclusive gloss black RAYS 19-inch wheels.
The car flaunts a revamped design, encompassing a redesigned front fascia that Nissan refers to as a Grand Nose, paying tribute to the styling legacy of the Z. It also exhibits a three-piece rear spoiler, a reshaped rear bumper, redesigned side sills, and red pinstriping, including on the side mirrors – a pleasant touch.
During the trial run, the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo garnered enthusiastic acclaim from speed enthusiasts, and rightfully so. Despite the automatic transmission, this car is remarkably swift. Still hesitant? Give it a go.
Nissan’s engineers have executed an impressive job of reinforcing the mechanical components of the Z, leading to sharp responsiveness and disciplined handling. The steering is precise, transforming the Nissan Z Nismo into a confident speedster. It’s also sufficiently comfortable to serve as an exceptional daily driver.
Nevertheless, there is one significant drawback – the infotainment screen has one of the poorest user interfaces in existence, despite its ample size. This is a common issue with Nissan vehicles and is long overdue for enhancement.
All in all, this sports car offers exhilarating and swift enjoyment. Because of its restricted production, it’s an unusual sight on the road. However, the nearly $13,000 premium over the previous top-of-the-line Performance trim might make the 2024 Nissan Z Nismo a less conventional option.
Ultimately, your decision to get behind the wheel will depend on your perspective of automatic transmissions.
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