Nismo goes manual
The Nissan Z gains its first manual Nismo, a redesigned Z Coupe front end, and equipment and chassis upgrades across the range.
The headline change for 2026 is the arrival here of the six-speed manual Nismo, pictured. It’s the first time the marque’s most focused Z has been offered with a manual transmission in this country.
It joins the existing automatic variant, taking the Z line-up to four grades along with the manual and automatic Z Coupes.
The Nismo manual uses a short-stroke six-speed gearbox with an exclusively tuned drive mode. In this form, it delivers 309kW of power and 520Nm and torque for an increase of 11kW and 45Nm over the standard Z Coupe.
For 2026, the Z Nismo models also adopt two-piece front-brake rotors derived from the GT-R paired with a new brake caliper colour. These components reduce unsprung mass by around 9kg.
The new Z Coupe has a redesigned front bumper and grille, and new 19-inch alloys. In addition, both manual and automatic variants feature upgraded Nismo monotube dampers for improved handling and ride comfort.
Leading the Coupe’s colour palette is a new hero shade called unryu green, which is joined by the return of boulder grey two-tone with a black roof.
Inside, all Zs feature a new wireless smartphone charge. A no-cost tan interior is optional on the Coupe. Other detailed upgrades include a frameless auto-dimming rear-view mirror, start-up animation and intelligent-key design.
The 2026 Z range, including the new manual Nismo, is now available for order with first customer arrivals slated for September.
Steve Milette, managing director of Nissan Oceania, says: “The Z is an icon. It has always been about the connection between driver and car, so bringing a manual to the Nismo and genuine GT-R-derived hardware doubles down on our promise to our most committed enthusiasts.”
The Z Coupe starts at $89,990 and the Z Nismo is priced from $108,500, plus on-road costs. Prices are manufacturer’s recommended list price, and exclude premium paint and statutory charges.
