Retro makeover for Japanese icon

Jack Quick

Production Editor

2 min read

Nissan has previewed an update to its Z sports car at this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon ahead of its launch in Japan around the middle of 2026.

A lot of the stylistic cues of this updated Nissan Z have been inspired by the original S30-generation of the Nissan Fairlady Z, known as the Datsun 240Z and 260Z in Australia.

This includes the new Unryu Green exterior paint colour which is inspired by the original Grand Prix Green paint from the Fairlady Z, plus the machine-finished alloy wheel design.

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Highlighting this update is a revised front bumper which now features a body-colour bar across the grille and a ‘Z’ front badge replacing the standard Nissan badge.

Other subtle changes to the front bumper add 30mm to the overall vehicle length, while they are also claimed to reduce front lift by 3.3 per cent and drag by 1.0 per cent.

Under the skin there are larger pistons for the shock absorbers which are claimed to improve comfort and stability.

It’s worth noting no changes have been made to the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine which continues to produce 298kW and 475Nm, and is mated to either a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission.

Inside the changes are minimal. Nissan has introduced a new tan upholstery colourway on the seats, as well as the lower portion of the dash and door cards.

In addition to this updated Nissan Z, the Japanese carmaker revealed a manual version of the Z Nismo at this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon. To date it has only been offered with the nine-speed automatic transmission.

The Z Nismo manual gets a unique engine torque profile aimed to improve the throttle response, as well as a short-throw six-speed manual gear shifter.

At this stage it’s unclear if or when this updated Nissan Z or the Z Nismo manual will be coming to Australia. We’ve reached out to Nissan and will update this story once we hear back.

Jack Quick

Production Editor

Jack Quick has proven himself as one of Australia's most prolific motoring journalists since starting in the industry in 2021. He joined the CarsGuide team in 2025 after spending four years at CarExpert in various roles. Growing up on a farm in rural Victoria, Jack has been driving cars since before he could see over the wheel. He also gained plenty of experience operating heavy machinery. In fact, he currently holds a Heavy Rigid license. On the farm, Jack spent a lot of time bush-bashing in his family’s 1992 Suzuki Sierra soft-top and 1985 Holden Drover ute. This fuelled his life-long obsession with cars and was a key reason he purchased a 2020 Suzuki Jimny. This Jimny is now living out its days on the family farm and Jack currently drives a 2025 Renault Duster. You can find Jack on LinkedIn and Instagram. Expertise Heavy vehicles Off-road Education Bachelor of Arts (Photography and Journalism) | Deakin University | 2017-2021 Featured Publications CarExpert | 2021-2025 CarsGuide | 2025-present
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