Here's Why Nissan Might Be Rethinking A Manual Transmission For The New Nismo Z

May 28, 2023

While the Nismo Z embraces the trend of automatic transmissions seen in the industry, here's why you shouldn't rule out a manual variant in the future

In the dynamic world of sports cars, the 2024 Nissan Nismo Z has emerged as a thrilling contender, capturing the essence of speed, power, and driving exhilaration. As automotive enthusiasts eagerly anticipate its release, a notable absence has sparked discussions among fans and experts alike - the absence of a manual transmission.

In this exploration of the 2024 Nissan Nismo Z's evolution, we explore the performance enhancements that define its prowess, the rationale behind the choice of an automatic transmission, the potential for a manual variant, the delicate balance between modern performance and traditional driving nostalgia, and a deeper look into the industry's shift towards automatic transmissions.

Related: 10 Performance Cars That Still Offer A Manual Transmission In 2023

Under the sleek and aggressive exterior of the 2024 Nismo Z lies a re-imagined powerhouse. Nissan has meticulously tuned the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine to unleash an astonishing 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. These numbers not only surpass those of its direct competitor, the Toyota GR Supra but also signify Nissan's commitment to elevating the sports car experience. The engine, coupled with a meticulously calibrated nine-speed automatic transmission, ensures that the Nismo Z accelerates with an unrelenting surge of power, delivering an exhilarating driving experience like no other.

The transformation of the nine-speed automatic transmission is a triumph of engineering. Every gear change is executed with remarkable precision, eliminating any sluggishness that might hinder performance on the track. The transmission's newfound agility is achieved through a combination of revised engine management software and clutch pack enhancements. The result is shift speeds that are quicker than its predecessor, ensuring rapid and seamless transitions between gears, especially during spirited driving or track sessions.

Engine

3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 VR30 DDTT

Horsepower

420 horsepower

Torque

384 pound-feet (available from 2000 to 5200 rpm)

Cooling System

An enhanced system inspired by the GT-R NISMO

Transmission

Exclusive nine-speed automatic

Electronic Wastegate Control

Increased turbo boost and turbine speed

Spark-Timing System

Cylinder-specific, GT-R inspired

Downshift Times

Reduced by nearly 50% with improved engine management software

Drive Mode

Sport+ with racetrack-tuned shifting

Launch Control

Aggressive start system

Weight

3,704 pounds

Weight-to-Power Ratio

8.8 pounds per horsepower

Endurance is a cornerstone of Nismo Z's evolution. Nissan's focus on longevity is evident in the addition of an improved oil cooler, extending the car's capacity for sustained high-performance driving. This strategic enhancement opens the door to longer track sessions, allowing enthusiasts to push the Nismo Z to its limits without compromising its mechanical integrity. The symphony of power and endurance is orchestrated to cater to the demands of both track enthusiasts and discerning drivers seeking a refined yet thrilling on-road experience.

Related: The 2024 Nissan Z NISMO Is Missing The Most Important Element

The absence of a manual transmission in the 2024 Nismo Z may raise eyebrows among purists, but it underscores Nissan's dedication to crafting a track-focused performance machine. Customer feedback played a pivotal role in steering this decision. Nissan's director of advanced product planning, Paul Hawson, explained that the Nismo Z's primary audience consists of track-oriented individuals who prioritize lap times over nostalgic sentiments. The automatic transmission, optimized for on-track performance, minimizes time loss between gear changes, ultimately contributing to a more exhilarating and efficient driving experience.

The automotive landscape has witnessed a gradual shift towards automatic transmissions, even among performance vehicles. The Nismo Z's embrace of this trend aligns with a broader industry movement, where many high-performance cars, including the upper ranks, are now equipped with two-pedal systems. This shift is not merely a matter of convenience but a strategic maneuver to enhance overall performance on the track.

Related: Subaru Revives The Impreza RS But Axes The Manual Transmission In All Models

The industry-wide shift towards automatic transmissions is not just a fleeting trend; it is a strategic evolution rooted in performance and precision. As advancements in technology continue to reshape the automotive landscape, automatic transmissions have proven their mettle in enhancing lap times and overall driving dynamics. This transition allows drivers to focus more on refining their lines on the track and less on the intricate dance of gear shifting.

High-performance cars equipped with automatic transmissions have consistently showcased impressive lap times, a testament to the meticulous engineering that goes into their design. Vehicles like the Mercedes-AMG ONE and Porsche 911 GT2 RS MR, equipped with automated manual and dual-clutch transmissions, respectively, have set records at renowned circuits such as the Nurburgring. The Nismo Z's adaptation of an automatic transmission is, in many ways, a strategic alignment with this performance-driven ethos.

Related: The 10 Best Manual Performance Cars You Can Buy In 2023

For enthusiasts who yearn for the tactile engagement and driving intimacy that a manual transmission offers, there is a glimmer of hope. Nissan's stance on the matter is clear - the potential for a manual variant of the Nismo Z remains a possibility, contingent on consumer demand. While the initial release introduces the automatic transmission, the door to a three-pedal Nismo Z has not been firmly shut. Hawson acknowledged that if the market conditions that led to the automatic's introduction were replicated for a manual version, the traditionalist's dream could become a reality.

The introduction of a manual transmission would undoubtedly rekindle the connection between driver and machine, allowing enthusiasts to revel in the art of shifting gears and mastering the clutch. The prospect of a manual Nismo Z highlights the delicate balance between catering to modern performance demands and preserving the spirit of driving nostalgia.

Related: Watch How Much Faster A PDK Automatic Transmission Porsche 911 GT3 Is Over Its Manual Counterpart

In the heart of the 2024 Nissan Nismo Z's evolution lies a captivating narrative of performance, innovation, and the delicate interplay between tradition and modernity. As the automotive world propels itself into a new era of speed and precision, the Nismo Z stands as a testament to Nissan's dedication to pushing boundaries and embracing change. The absence of a manual transmission, while a departure from convention, underscores the brand's unyielding pursuit of track excellence.

Yet, the potential for a manual variant serves as a beacon of hope for enthusiasts yearning to relive the intimate connection between car and driver. By aligning market demand with driving desires, the Nismo Z could very well redefine the sports car landscape once again. As the countdown to its release continues, enthusiasts have a unique opportunity to shape the destiny of the Nissan Nismo Z, steering it towards a future that harmonizes performance with nostalgia in a symphony of mechanical mastery.

The tale of the 2024 Nissan Nismo Z is not just a chapter in the brand's history; it's a narrative that speaks to the evolution of sports cars as a whole. It's a story of power, precision, and the pursuit of driving perfection, all orchestrated to the symphony of modern technology and traditional driving passion. As the curtain rises on the Nismo Z's performance journey, enthusiasts stand at the crossroads of history, with the power to influence and shape the legacy of a true performance icon.

Meet Kris, a trusted contributor with a deep passion for cars. Having over 7 years of experience as a Mercedes-Benz technician, Kris brings extensive expertise and knowledge to the automotive world.