2009 Nissan 370Z NISMO
The NISMO package adds more power, a firmer sport suspension, wider tires, and aerodynamic body modifications to the already-capable 2009 370Z.

Factory-tuned performance cars can be an appealing choice for shoppers who want to spice up their vehicle but don’t want to take a chance by modifying it themselves. The promise of additional performance with the security of a full factory warranty is a tempting combination. The Honda Civic Si, MazdaSpeed 3, Subaru WRX, and Volkswagen GTI are all examples of cars that get special factory treatment, which turns them into products that offer a good deal more performance than their more mainstream siblings.

But what to do about tuning a car that already offers a lot of performance? The redesigned-for-2009 370Z packs a 332-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine into a lightweight body. Rather than an all-out re-working of the powertrain, body, and/or suspension, engineers gave this sporty car a few tweaks, putting it together in a package dubbed NISMO. The name stands for Nissan Motorsports, the company’s factory-performance division.

Click here to read our review of the 2009 Nissan 370Z.
Introduced late in the 2009 model year, the 370Z NISMO packs the same 3.7-liter V6 as the standard 370Z Base and Touring models. The NISMO, though, boasts 18 additional horsepower (350 total) and 6 pound-feet of torque (276 total). Its sole transmission is a 6-speed manual with Nissan’s “SynchroRev Match” feature, which automatically increases engine speed when downshifting; it negates the need for drivers to “blip” the throttle in order to smoothly engage a lower gear. Other NISMO-specific changes over the stock 370Z include a firmer sport suspension, wider 19-inch tires, and aerodynamic body addenda.

Here’s our take based on a recent preview test drive.

What’s Cool…

Track-Ready Handling
From the word “go,” the 370Z NISMO is ready to tackle any corner. Body lean in fast turns is nearly non-existent, steering feel is excellent, and the brakes deliver controlled stops. Nissan’s SynchroRev Match works very well, giving even modestly experienced drivers an added measure of confidence.

Plenty Powerful
Though it doesn’t feel much faster than the standard 370Z, the NISMO is still quick by any measure. Power comes on smoothly and strongly across all engine speeds.

Functional Aerodynamics That Shouldn’t Compromise Fuel Economy
The 370Z NISMO incorporates specific ground effects, functional rear spoiler, and a lowered suspension, all designed for aerodynamic efficiency. While it has more power, the NISMO’s EPA fuel-economy rating is the same 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway as the standard 370Z.

…What’s Not

The Noise
The main culprits here are the engine and tires. The NISMO’s motor isn’t the most refined mill among sporty cars, emitting a gravelly sound in nearly any driving condition. NISMO models have specific high-performance 19-inch tires that drone loudly on most every pavement surface.

The Ride
Even for a performance-minded car, the NISMO’s ride is almost brutally stiff. You feel every little bump and road imperfection, even on road surfaces that appear smooth. While this car has no pretensions of coddling its occupants, even the most serious enthusiast likely will find the ride tiring.

The Price
With a starting price of around $30,000, the base 370Z is actually something of a performance bargain. Not so much the NISMO. With destination, the performance-oriented Z costs a much more sobering $39,850. For those wanting to extract more performance out of their cars, the nearly $10,000 premium over the base car could buy a lot of third-party parts, though admittedly you don’t get the benefit of a full factory warranty.

CG Says:

Only the most serious Z enthusiasts need apply for the NISMO. While it does offer a measure of handling greater than that of the base 370Z, it’s not enough to justify its stiffer ride, elevated noise levels, and much stiffer price tag. Its home is on the race track, not as an everyday commuter.  

09.25.2009