2026 Nissan Z: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The core 2026 Nissan Z lineup is a carryover with no major changes from 2025. Sport, Performance, and NISMO retain the same powertrains, safety equipment, cabin technology, and chassis setups; the separate Heritage Edition is an appearance treatment rather than an update to those trims.
About the 2026 Nissan Z
7th generation (RZ34), fourth model year, just before the expected 2027 refresh.
Nissan positions the Z as a modern version of a classic two-seat sports coupe: rear-wheel drive, twin-turbo V6 power, a driver-focused cockpit, and styling cues that connect it to older Z cars. Its appeal is straightforward rather than flashy: strong performance, a real manual transmission on most trims, and a cabin built around the driving experience. In today’s market, it stands out as one of the few mainstream two-seat, rear-drive sports cars that still leans heavily into heritage and traditional sports-car feel.
Sport is the straightforward 400-hp version, with an 8-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital gauge display. Performance adds stronger Akebono brakes, a traction-aiding limited-slip differential, heated leather-appointed seats, and a 9-inch navigation screen, while the 420-hp NISMO brings a more track-focused suspension, stronger brakes, added cooling, and Recaro sport seats.
2026 Nissan Z specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V6, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 9-Spd NISMO-Tuned | Manual, 6-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 24 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 420 hp | 400 hp | 400 hp |
| Torque | 384 lb-ft | 350 lb-ft | 350 lb-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2026 Nissan Z?
No major changes were made to the core 2026 Nissan Z lineup. Sport, Performance, and NISMO carry over their engines, transmission choices, safety equipment, infotainment systems, and chassis setups from 2025.
How is the 2026 Nissan Z different from the 2025 model?
The regular 2026 Nissan Z is essentially the same as the 2025 model. Its three core trims continue without meaningful mechanical, technology, safety, or structural updates.
Was the 2026 Nissan Z redesigned?
No, the 2026 Nissan Z was not redesigned. It remains part of the seventh-generation RZ34 lineup and keeps the same basic body and chassis setup as 2025.
Did the 2026 Nissan Z get more power?
No, power output is unchanged for the core 2026 lineup. Sport and Performance retain a 400-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, while NISMO retains its 420-hp version.
What is the 2026 Nissan Z Heritage Edition?
The 2026 Heritage Edition is a separate appearance treatment inspired by the 300ZX. It does not change the standard equipment of the Sport, Performance, or NISMO trims.