The Nissan Fairlady Z NISMO just received the update enthusiasts have waited for. Announced and released on August 27, 2026, the refresh stretches the nose, sharpens the stance and finally brings a manual gearbox to the NISMO grade. On paper, this is a modest facelift. In reality, it signals that Nissan still takes its sports car seriously.
Nissan Fairlady Z NISMO Goes Manual
The six-speed manual is the headline, and it matters more than any new wheel design. Engine control has been retuned for a stronger pull through the upper rev range. Drivers can choose between STANDARD and SPORT modes, with SPORT sharpening throttle response for spirited runs.
Chassis work deserves equal attention. Larger-diameter shock absorbers increase damper pressure area by 26.6 percent, limiting body movement when the road pushes back. Nissan’s performance ambitions echo the 2030 Nismo GT-R Vision Hypercar, though this Z is a road car with a far more practical mission.
| ⚙️Engine / Powertrain | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 (VR30DDTT) |
| 🐎Power Output | 405 PS (est.) |
| ⚡Peak Torque | 475 Nm (est.) |
| ⏱️0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) | 0-60 mph in 4.6s (est.) |
| 🚀Top Speed | 155 mph (250 km/h, limited) (est.) |
| 🔄Drivetrain / Gearbox | 6-Speed Manual / RWD |
| 💰Starting Price / Est. | ¥6,000,000 (est.) |
Brakes Borrowed From the GT-R
Stopping power receives a serious upgrade. Front discs now use the two-piece drilled rotors once reserved for the GT-R, improving heat dissipation and trimming unsprung weight. According to Nissan, the lighter rotors help the suspension react more quickly to surface imperfections.
Noir Editions Hit the Note Lineup
Meanwhile, the Note family received its own August 24 update. Most variants now feature a synthetic leather steering wheel called Tailored Fit, while Note Aura models add heated steering and front seats as standard. Black Edition and Black Limited trims bring a darker, more aggressive look to the range.
Predicting the Z’s Collector Future
Ultimately, the six-speed manual could be the detail that lifts this Z above its rivals. Manual sports cars are becoming rare, and enthusiasts pay a premium for them on the used market. Expect clean examples to hold their value well, especially if Nissan builds only limited numbers of the stick-shift NISMO.
Liam Campbell
Industry Intelligence & News Editor at Auto News Magazine. Tracking prototype spy shots, Nürburgring development mules, automaker corporate moves, and breaking global automotive scoops.
View all articles by Liam Campbell →
