2027 Nissan Z Trim Guide: Which Z Is Right for You?

The legendary Nissan Z returns for 2027 with exciting updates, enhanced performance, and an even clearer distinction between its three available trims: Sport, Performance, and NISMO.

For over 50 years, the Z has represented Nissan’s passion for sports car performance, combining iconic styling with thrilling rear-wheel-drive dynamics. For 2027, Nissan has refined the formula with updated styling, chassis improvements, and one of the most requested upgrades ever—a manual transmission for the Z NISMO.

If you’re considering a new Nissan Z, here’s everything you need to know about each trim level.

What’s New for the 2027 Nissan Z?

The 2027 Nissan Z receives several important updates across the lineup, including:

• Refreshed front fascia and grille design
• Revised fuel tank design for improved performance during hard cornering
• New Shinkai Green exterior color
• Larger shock absorbers on Performance models
• Available Qi2 wireless charging
• GT-R-derived brake components on NISMO models
• First-ever manual transmission option for the Z NISMO

These updates help make each trim more specialized and appealing to different types of drivers.

2027 Nissan Z Sport

Pure Sports Car Performance

The Z Sport serves as the foundation of the lineup and delivers everything enthusiasts love about the modern Z.

Under the hood is a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through either a 6-speed manual transmission or available 9-speed automatic transmission.

Highlights include:

• 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6
• Rear-wheel drive
• 6-speed manual transmission available
• Updated front fascia styling
• Digital gauge cluster
• Nissan Safety Shield technologies
• Signature Z heritage design

For drivers seeking a pure sports car experience without stepping into premium performance upgrades, the Sport trim offers tremendous value.

2027 Nissan Z Performance

The Sweet Spot of the Lineup

Many enthusiasts will find the Z Performance to be the ideal balance between everyday comfort and serious performance capability.

Like the Sport, the Performance trim features the 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6, but adds several enhancements designed to improve handling, comfort, and technology.

Performance-exclusive features include:

• Larger monotube shock absorbers
• Forged 19-inch wheels
• Available tan interior
• Available Qi2 wireless charging
• Additional performance-focused equipment
• Enhanced handling dynamics

The result is a sports car that’s equally comfortable on a weekend road trip or your favorite back road.

For many Rochester-area drivers, the Performance trim strikes the perfect balance between excitement and everyday drivability.

2027 Nissan Z NISMO

The Ultimate Z

If maximum performance is your goal, the Z NISMO sits at the top of the lineup.

For 2027, Nissan gave enthusiasts exactly what they asked for: a manual transmission option. Previously available only with an automatic transmission, the NISMO can now be equipped with a specially tuned short-throw 6-speed manual transmission.

Performance upgrades include:

• 420 horsepower
• 384 lb-ft of torque
• Available short-shift 6-speed manual transmission
• GT-R-derived front brake rotors
• Retuned suspension
• Enhanced steering response
• NISMO-exclusive styling
• Performance-focused aerodynamics
• Track-inspired tuning

The NISMO is built for drivers who want the most focused and capable factory-built Z ever produced.

Quick Trim Comparison

Choose the Z Sport if:

• You want the most affordable entry into Z ownership
• You love pure sports car driving
• You want 400 horsepower and rear-wheel drive without extra upgrades

Choose the Z Performance if:

• You want the best overall balance of features and performance
• You enjoy spirited driving and weekend road trips
• You want additional comfort and technology features

Choose the Z NISMO if:

• You want maximum performance
• You plan to attend track events
• You want the most advanced and powerful Z available
• You’ve been waiting for a manual-transmission NISMO

Why the Nissan Z Continues to Stand Out

As sports cars become increasingly rare, the Nissan Z remains one of the few affordable rear-wheel-drive performance coupes available today. Enthusiasts have been especially excited about the addition of a manual-transmission NISMO, with many calling it the update they’ve been waiting for.

The 2027 updates further refine the Z formula while staying true to the heritage that has made the Z an icon for generations.

Find Your Nissan Z at Hoselton Nissan

Whether you’re drawn to the value of the Sport, the versatility of the Performance, or the track-inspired capability of the NISMO, the 2027 Nissan Z offers a trim for every driving enthusiast.

As new 2027 Nissan Z models arrive, Hoselton Nissan will be your destination for the latest inventory, information, and availability.

Contact our team today to learn more about the upcoming 2027 Nissan Z and discover which trim is right for you.