2009 Nissan 350Z: Road Test
2009 Nissan 350Z ▼
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- MSRP: $36,870 - $42,570
- Invoice: $34,148 - $39,419
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Our road test for the 2009 Nissan 350Z includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Nissan 350Z from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Nissan 350Z, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Nissan 350Z help you decide if a 2009 Nissan 350Z is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.8 |
Only manual-transmission versions have been made available for us to test so far. They delight with ample power from any speed. All models tested suffered from jerky clutch engagement, which made smooth launches from a stop difficult.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.2 |
In Consumer Guide testing, manual-transmission 350Z models averaged 19.4-19.6 mpg. Premium-grade gas is required.
RIDE QUALITY
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4.2 |
At highway speeds, 350Z suffers from high-frequency hop and jiggle on anything but glass-smooth pavement. Passengers feel just about every bump and rut. A remarkably stiff body structure means convertibles suffer little body flex or cowl shake.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 8.2 |
Though some of our testers wish for more road feel, the 350Z's steering is precise overall. The firm suspension tuning and stiff, high-performance tires mean excellent grip and balance through fast turns, as long as those corners are smooth. Any bumps can cause unnerving tail hop, making the car feel less stable than it really is. The brakes have confidence inspiring pedal feel and control.
QUIETNESS
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 3.3 |
The engine and exhaust note are fitting of the 350Z's sporty intentions, but some of our testers find them tiresome after long drives. There's also plenty of tire roar, and there's little sound insulation. Even with the top up, conversation at highway speeds can require raised voices.
CONTROLS
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.6 |
The clearly marked gauge cluster tilts with the steering column. Most controls are easy to reach, but the audio buttons are a bit undersized to operate easily while driving.
DETAILS
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5 |
Most interior panels are textured or padded, but the overall ambiance is drab, rather than sporty.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.5 |
These are among the more spacious two-seaters, though high doorsills and a low seating position give a closed-in feel. The seats have decent lateral bolstering, but some testers find the padding a bit thin for best comfort on long drives. Top-up visibility is hampered by the combination of seat headrests and a small rear window.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 0 | 1.4 |
No rear seating.
CARGO ROOM
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2.8 |
This convertible has a small, shallow trunk, though space does not shrink with the top down. Three covered bins in the rear wall of the cockpit behind the seat mean interior storage is good, but this space is not easily accessible.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.3 |
The Nissan 350Z convertible is solidly engineered and delivers pure sports-car satisfaction. It's not without typical sports-car vices; namely a rough ride and high noise levels. All models are pricey, but you must purchase the top-end Grand Touring version in order to get an antiskid system, an important safety feature we highly recommend.
Total Score
| Enthusiast, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 49 | 54.3 |
Total Score: 49
Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars
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