There’s nothing wrong with a “Z” but it isn’t enough.
BMW might claim that “M” stands for “most powerful letter in all of the world,” but JDM fans would disagree. The long-awaited sports car, simply called the Nissan Z, finally went into production in August. This is 13 years after the 370Z. It will be available for purchase as a 2023MY at some point next-year. In the meantime, it has been seen roaming Phoenix’s streets.
Why are the Z and Nissan badges still hidden at the rear? This prototype is in production and has a manufacturer license plate. It’s finished in Gun Metallic and offers a rare opportunity to view the rear-wheel-drive sportscar in a different color than the Ikazuchi yellow or Seiran blue shown in official photos. There will be nine colors to choose from with six single-tone and three two-tone options.
The taillights are a modern version of those found in the 300ZX. While the spoiler suggests that we are dealing with the more powerful Performance trim level, we like them quite a lot. This video, which was shot inside a Ford Focus ST (or RS), shows a regular version rather than the limited edition Proto Spec. The latter has bright yellow brake calipers, while this one has them in red.
The Z badges on the quarter panel as well as the front are hidden under tape. This is to prevent people from mistaking it for the new, but not all-new Nissan Supra. The Toyota Supra competitor is better seen in open to get a better idea of its retro-styled design and how it looks with a more subtle paint job.
We don’t know the exact cost of the 2023 Z, but it is likely to start at $40,000 with options. Although the car isn’t yet available for purchase, rumors are already circulating about a sped-up Nismo that will be revealed next year. However, we would take this rumor with a pinch of salt. It is possible that Nismo upgrades may be offered, but not a full fat performance version as it would be too early in its life cycle.