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The 2024–2026 U.S. Nissan Z NISMO pairs 420 hp with upgraded chassis and brake hardware, but it was offered only with a nine-speed automatic. That changes for 2027: Nissan has announced an available six-speed manual, so the automatic-only criticism applies to the earlier NISMO model years, not the newest version. Nissan has not established the 2027 manual’s real-world performance in the sources cited here.
What the NISMO adds to the Nissan Z
The NISMO’s case is more than an output bump. Nissan’s 2024 specifications rate the NISMO at 420 hp at 6,400 rpm and 384 lb-ft from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. The Sport and Performance grades are rated at 400 hp at 6,400 rpm and 350 lb-ft from 1,600 to 5,600 rpm. Nissan attributes the NISMO’s gains to engine revisions including improved cooling, revised electronic wastegate control, and a separate ignition strategy—not a wholesale engine redesign. Nissan’s 2024 Z NISMO specifications list the figures and equipment.
- Chassis: NISMO-tuned suspension and steering, plus a mechanical limited-slip differential.
- Wheels and tires: Wider 19-inch fitment. Nissan specifies Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT600 tires in 255/40R19 front and 285/35R19 rear sizes for the 2024 NISMO. For replacements, confirm the model year, axle, load and speed ratings, and fitment before ordering; a cited specification does not confirm current stock.
- Brakes: Larger brakes than the other Z grades. Nissan’s 2027 press kit also describes GT-R-derived two-piece rotors, which Nissan says save 19 pounds of total front rotor weight. That is a manufacturer figure, not an independent measurement.
For a broader equipment check, Nissan’s Z specifications and Z product page describe the trim’s hardware. Equipment and specifications can vary by model year.
The automatic: what it does well, and where it falls short
2024–2026: automatic only
In the U.S., the 2024–2026 NISMO came with a NISMO-tuned nine-speed automatic; Sport and Performance grades offered a six-speed manual as well as an automatic. The NISMO automatic includes manual shift mode, paddle shifters, launch control, and downshift rev matching, according to Nissan’s 2024 specifications.
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Nissan says the NISMO transmission has quicker shift response and enhanced cooling. Its 2026 NISMO product page says Sport+ mode enables up to 50% quicker downshifts and uses special in-gear throttle logic. Treat these as Nissan’s claims: they are not independent measurements or proof of a lap-time advantage.
The trade-off is straightforward for drivers who want a clutch pedal and gear lever: paddles provide manual control over shifts, but they are not equivalent to a manual transmission. In its review of the 2024 Z, Autoblog said the NISMO automatic improved on the regular Z’s unit, while still criticizing its behavior under hard driving and judging it behind the Toyota Supra’s ZF automatic. Those are one outlet’s driving impressions, not a cross-publication consensus.
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2027: an available six-speed manual
Nissan announced a six-speed manual for the 2027 NISMO, with an upgraded clutch and a shorter shift stroke than the regular Z manual. Nissan says the manual-specific engine tuning adjusts throttle and ignition timing. The announcement changes the transmission choice going forward, but it does not establish how the 2027 manual drives in independent testing. See Nissan’s 2027 Z press kit for the announced details.
Nissan lists the 2027 NISMO manual and automatic at the same suggested list price: $67,260. The press-kit price table lists $1,325 for destination and handling and excludes tax, title, and license. These are U.S. figures from Nissan’s 2027 press kit; verify current pricing and availability with a dealer.
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- GENUINE: Authentically licensed by Universal
- ICONIC BRANDING: Attention to detail and expert styling cues that enhances the Nissan Z
- ENHANCEMENTS: Highly detailed sculpt, premium paint detail and custom logos
- HIT THE ROAD: Opening doors, trunk, hood, and premium rubber tires,
How it feels on the road—and what one review found
Autoblog praised the NISMO’s handling, describing responsive, communicative steering and a ride it found compliant enough for street use. It characterized the chassis as the Z line’s strongest point. The outlet also called the car expensive, so the performance hardware does not make the price concern disappear. These impressions come from that publication’s 2024 review, not a long-term ownership study or a broad comparison of independent tests.
Nissan’s specifications establish the power and equipment; they do not establish a measured lap-time advantage, long-term durability, ownership costs, or superiority over every rival. A test drive is especially useful if the automatic’s shift behavior or street ride is central to your decision.
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Is the Nissan Z NISMO worth it?
It is most compelling for a buyer who values the NISMO’s added output, limited-slip differential, tuned suspension and steering, wider tire fitment, and larger brakes enough to accept the price premium and, for 2024–2026 cars, the automatic-only configuration. The cited evidence does not establish a universal value verdict or quantify how much quicker the NISMO is than other Z grades.
If a manual is essential, model year is decisive: the 2024–2026 U.S. NISMO does not offer one, while Nissan has announced a 2027 six-speed option. If you are considering that newer version, wait for independent driving evaluations rather than assuming the manual’s behavior from Nissan’s specifications alone.
Quick Recap
Where to verify the details
- Nissan’s 2024 Z NISMO specifications for output, transmission, tires, and equipment.
- Nissan’s 2026 Z product page for its NISMO transmission claims.
- Nissan’s 2027 Z press kit for the manual announcement and listed pricing.
- Autoblog’s 2024 review for one independent outlet’s driving impressions.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
