It’s no secret that the Japanese manufacturer is working on the next generation of this iconic sports car. The testing model has been spotted on the Nurburgring track and we are eagerly waiting to see it on the road, considering that the current generation is far more than outdated. At this point, the company keeps many things as secret, but there are some details we’ve managed to find out, while others are quite easy to predict. Anyway, here are some of the things that seem pretty certain for the next-generation Z Car.
No county for Old Men
One of the first things that come to mind about the new model is the engine. Times have changed and there is no place for naturally-aspirated gasoline engines in cars that tend to be light and agile. Therefore, the new model will also get help from a turbocharger. Moreover, we are about to see two of them, as the new model is about to come with a familiar 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6, which can be found under the hoods of Q50 and Q60 sedans. The max output will go around 400 horsepower, though Nismo models will probably be even more powerful.
Another thing that comes to mind is the transmission. In the two Infiniti models, an automatic transmission is the only choice, but we are pretty sure that the new Z Car will be offered with a manual gearbox as well. Some sources suggest that the AWD version will be in the offer as well, though we are pretty sure that Nissan will stick to tradition in this case and that the new version will be strictly offered with rear-wheel-drive.
Clean Lines, Modern Interior
Another thing that comes to mind is the styling. One of the things that seem certain is that the new model will stick to its roots and that we are about to see clean lines and curvy overall shape, instead of modern angular design solutions. Several sources suggest that the new model will come with retro styling, where the legendary Datsun 240Z would serve as an inspiration. Moreover, some insiders claim the new model will come with round headlights, inspired by the 300ZX model. In any case, we count on a lot of retro flavor in this case.
When it comes to interior design, there is no doubt that the familiar layout will remain. The new model will carry on as a two-seater, though we count on a completely new cabin layout. This would mean a significant improvement in terms of materials, while the dashboard will come with a new shape and the latest tech goodies. Whether the new model is to come with a retro dashboard or not, big changes are coming.
How About the Name?
Another thing that bothers car enthusiasts is the name. So far, the company has been giving the names of Z cars depending on the engine size. Therefore, it would be logical to see this model with the 300Z name. However, some reports the company would rather accentuate the max output, so we could easily see the 400Z badge. However, that could cause problems with the Nismo version and its name, as this one would come with notably more power.
Release Date and Price
The new model is in the testing phase and some reports suggest we could see a premiere in the second half of the year, while sales would start next year. When it comes to the price, the new version will certainly cost much more than the current model, which starts at around 31/32.000 dollars. Most likely, the new version will feature the starting price around 40.000 dollars, roughly.
