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Under the bonnet the new 370Z is a reworked version of Nissan's awarding winning VQ engine with 243kW of power and 366Nm of torque. Photo Gallery
We were wondering how Nissan could possibly follow up a stunner like the 350Z.
To tell the truth, we were a little concerned they'd muff it - but as it turns out we needn't have been.
Unveiled at this week's Los Angeles motor show, the Zed's successor, the 370Z, looks every bit as good . . . if not better.
In fact, it's a better looking, much more elegant device than Nissan's brutish, Porsche pummelling GT-R.
We were there in 2007 for the unveiling of the GT-R in Tokyo and the new 370Z received the same kind of rock star welcome when the wraps came off as the first cab off the rank in LA.
You see not everyone can afford a GT-R, but the iconic and delectable Zed is within striking distance of the average motoring enthusiast and is easily the best all round package in its price bracket.
The new model takes its name from the larger, more powerful 3.7-litre V6 that can be found under the bonnet.
It's a reworked version of Nissan's awarding winning VQ engine, this time with 243kW of power and 366Nm of torque on tap, and revving all the way to 7500rpm.
The car's smaller and lighter too, which means it's going to be quicker and it will use less fuel.
The previous model produced 230kW and 358Nm and was good for 11.7 or 11.8 litres/100km depending on transmission.
To go with the new engine is a revised close ratio six-speed manual or seven speed automatic transmission, with paddle shifts.
In line with Nissan's “anywhere, anytime, anyone” philosophy, the 370Z is also going to be easier to drive, in manual form at least, with the world's first syncronised downshift rev matching system, so even the biggest bogan won't muff a gear change.
The “SynchroRev Control” function automatically matches engine speed when changing gear to the exact speed of the next gear, essentially blipping the throttle to smooth out any down/up shifts.
Eagled-eyed observers will notice the upturned rear quarter window of the 370Z, a styling cue from the original 240Z.
The “barbed” headlights and matching tail lights give the car a more aggressive look, with four-pot front brakes and standard 18 or optional 19 inch forged alloys.
As with other models Nissan has also put a lot of work into upgrading the interior, with a starter button, larger easier to read dials and the use of higher grade finishes.
There's a new factory fit navigation system and 240watt Bose sound system with two subs and a 9.3Gb hard drive, along with bluetooth and iPod integration.
The cockpit is arranged in a three-layer design which groups items in the order that the driver sees and uses them, to give the driver a completely connected feel whenever they drive.
At 2550mm the car is 70mm shorter than the one it replaces, with a 100mm shorter wheelbase.
But it is 33mm wider and has a 55mm wider rear track.
Those familiar with the current model will immediately notice the absence of the strut brace behind the seats.
Because of the lighter, stronger chassis it is no longer necessary.
The 3.7-litre DOHC V6 features has a longer stroke and higher compression, with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL).
It has been constructed using 35 per cent new parts.
Underpinning the car's performance potential is an electronic stability control system, viscous limited slip differential and anti-lock brakes with brake assist.
Safety equipment includes active head restraints with front, side and curtain airbags.
The new 370Z is due to arrive in the first half of next year, with price and specification still to be confirmed.
