On the way: Nissan 370Z

The recent coverage of the $148,800 GT-R has glossed over the fact that Nissan has another sportscar in the wings.

A new 370Z is on the way and will get its first public airing at next month's Los Angeles Motor Show.

As these photos show, the car is more evolutionary than revolutionary and remains faithful to the previous coupe's styling.

However, Nissan's designers have managed to make the car more contemporary and aggressive with flare wheelarches and a C-pillar kink through the rear side window.

The chunky vertical chrome door handles carry over and at the back the deep-set hatch is more sculptural and has an integrated spoiler.

At the front, the headlights give the car a dramatic look and are now a major focal point of the new Zed's styling.

In addition to their new zig-zag shape, the headlights are believed to use the latest-generation LED technology.

Inside there are lashings of leather, scalloped sports seats and deeply recessed gauges that evoke the dashboard styling of the original 240Z.

Nissan Australia spokesman, Jeff Fisher, says the car is expected to go on sale here mid-next year.

"The Zed is iconic," he says.

"It was the car that symbolised Nissan's return to health years ago and it is a strong favourite with buyers."

Nissan Australia sells about 60 a month and Fisher expects sales to lift with the new car.

"Given that it's now a five-year old car, it's still selling well," he says.

Although specifications are yet to be determined the 370Z will get reworked version of the VQ35R 3.5-litre V6, bumped to 3.7-litre with a lift in power and torque.

The engine is tipped to developing around 246kW and like the current car, drive the rear wheels.

Like the current car, both Touring and Track models will be available.

The car is shorter than the current model but sits on a wider track, using double wishbones up front and a multi-link rear suspension.

Brembo brakes, as well as 18-inch and 19-inch wheels are also expected to be part of the 370Z's arsenal.

Nissan is believed to have put the 370Z on a crash diet too, shedding weight in an attempt to deliver a quicker and crisper handling car.

It has used the famous Nurburgring in Germany to hone the car's handling up to the limit.

The coupe, codenamed C53D, arrives first, followed by the Roadster convertible.

Although unconfirmed by Nissan Japan, there are reports the car will be available with a 4.5-litre V8.