- Combines legendary NISMO performance, style and technology with Nissan 370Z Roadster open-air motoring excitement
- One-off design study created to gauge market interest in an ultimate factory Z® Roadster
- Offers unique engine, suspension, exterior and interior features versus standard Nissan 370Z Roadster models – including 350-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 and NISMO-tuned suspension
- Would join current Nissan 370Z NISMO coupe model, expanding NISMO lineup to five models
As the heart and soul of Nissan performance for both the track and on the street, NISMO continues to set the standard for straight-from-the-factory enthusiast vehicles. The lineup of NISMO production models for 2015 includes the GT-R NISMO, 370Z NISMO, JUKE NISMO and JUKE NISMO RS.
Yet as the popularity of NISMO models continues to grow – the 2015 GT-R NISMO is sold out, the 370Z NISMO accounts for 20 percent of total sales and JUKE NISMO models for about 15 percent – one group of performance enthusiast remains left out: Open-air sports car lovers. Enter the Nissan 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept, which makes its world debut at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show. The custom vehicle combines the long list of 370Z NISMO Coupe performance equipment with a modified 370Z Roadster body and interior.
“The idea of adding NISMO levels of look, feel and performance to a Nissan 370Z Roadster is one that we’ve been considering for a long time,” said Pierre Loing, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. “The creation of the Nissan 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept brings that idea to life and lets us judge consumer reaction – which we predict is going to be outstanding.”
The Nissan 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept’s striking visual presence starts with the addition of its GT-R-inspired functional and fully integrated aerodynamic body pieces. In front, the deep front fascia with Hyper LED Daytime Running Lights, black headlight bezels, NISMO emblem and signature NISMO red stripe accents set the tone.
On the sides of the vehicle, the NISMO red accents and red sideview mirror covers continue the NISMO theme, adding a touch of flair to the dramatic top-down profile. In the middle of the vehicle, the fixed headrest bars are leather-wrapped with red accents. The rear is highlighted by a custom carbon-fiber rear spoiler created exclusively use on the 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept.
The convertible top itself, though it is expected to be rare that it is in the closed position, is a cloth power-folding roof with fabric inner liner design. It includes a single action top operation with automatic roof lock, steel tonneau cover and fixed glass wind deflector – just like every 2015 Nissan 370Z Roadster.
The dramatic exterior appearance is topped by an aggressive stance provided by the wide 19-inch NISMO super-lightweight forged aluminum-alloy wheels by RAYS (19×9.5-inch front, 19×10.5-inch rear), which receive a special custom finishing. Y-rated Bridgestone Potenza S001 245/40R19 front and 285/35R19 rear tires complete the package.
“With as much attention as the exterior modifications are expected to attract, we knew the interior had to be just as special, especially since with the convertible top in the down position everything is in plain sight,” said Loing. “It doesn’t disappoint.”
The NISMO-styled interior is anchored by black Recaro® leather-appointed seats with red stitching and stain-repellent, off-white premium Ultrasuede® inserts – chosen to resist heat build-up when parked in open sunlight. The interior features custom red stitching with NISMO logo, an Alcantara®-appointed leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel and NISMO red tachometer.
The 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept’s suite of technology includes Nissan Navigation System with 7.0-inch VGA touch-sensitive display, RearView Monitor and Bose® Premium Audio System with six speakers and dual subwoofers to provide a clear soundtrack, even with the top down.
Even more than racing-inspired aerodynamic bodies and driver-oriented cockpit-style interiors, at its core NISMO is all about performance. To that end, the 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept is conceived to incorporate most of the engine and suspension modifications (versus non-NISMO 370Z models) of the 370Z NISMO coupe. This includes its potent 350-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL). The 370Z NISMO’s enhanced engine power and acceleration (versus non-NISMO 370Zs) is provided through use of an exclusive H-configured exhaust system design and muffler tuning, along with optimized ECM (Engine Control Module) calibration, to help create 18 horsepower more than a standard 370Z. Torque is rated at 276 lb-ft.
The 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept utilizes Nissan’s refined 7-speed automatic transmission with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM), Adaptive Shift Control and manual shift mode with paddle shifters. “The majority of 370Z Roadster buyers prefer the automatic transmission, which with Downshift Rev Matching and paddle shifters comes close to the performance of a 6-speed manual – so that’s how we specified the 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept,” said Loing. “Matched with the NISMO-tuned engine, suspension and steering, it is a great combination, perfect for long open-top drives along the shoreline or mountain roads alike.”
The 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept adds a NISMO-branded strut town brace under the hood, along with a red engine cover. The NISMO-tuned 4-wheel independent suspension includes special springs and stabilizer bars. Large Nissan Sport Brakes and a Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD) – with a shorter final drive ratio for better acceleration feel – are also included.
“While it is only a design study at this point, we think the 370Z NISMO Roaster Concept would be a tremendous addition to the long and distinguished history of Z® sports cars,” said Loing. “There’s still nothing better than an open top and an open road ahead of you, especially when there’s a NISMO badge on the bumper.”
NISSAN TURNS UP THE EXCITEMENT WITH FULLY UPDATED 370Z NISMO
- New 370Z NISMO features a host of design and engineering updates
- Incorporates new features developed for GT-R NISMO flagship
- Improved refinement, seating and equipment levels across the 370Z range
- On sale in Europe from September 2014
Nissan has strengthened its NISMO road car range with the release of a comprehensively updated 370Z NISMO. Following hot in the wheel-tracks of the flagship GT-R NISMO, the new 370Z incorporates a host of design and engineering improvements and is the sportiest and most focused 370Z to date.
In keeping with all Nissan NISMO models, the new 370Z NISMO encapsulates the essence of performance motoring, placing the driver at the heart of the action. Harnessing 30 years of NISMO spirit and engineering knowledge, the new 370Z NISMO has been extensively reworked to deliver a sharper and more engaging driving experience.
Design changes and new aero package
The 370Z NISMO has always been a head-turner, and with the introduction of a bolder, more powerful new look, it has even greater kerb appeal. The front bumper has been completely redesigned and features a larger air intake, additional air inlets ahead of the wheel arch and new LED daytime running lights. Other updates include the introduction of black headlamp bezels, special red NISMO trim at the base of the bumper, redesigned side sill and door mirror and special NISMO badging. The revised 370Z NISMO also features new 19-inch Rays alloy wheels finished in black and silver.
At the rear, Nissan has introduced a new bumper and spoiler design that typifies the brand’s approach to design and engineering. As part of a complete rework of the 370Z NISMO’s aero package, the new version features a smaller rear spoiler that works in tandem with the new front bumper to create significantly more downforce when driving at speed. What’s more, the force is now more evenly distributed over the front and rear axles, giving a more balanced feeling on the road. Nissan’s calculations confirm that the new aerodynamic system introduced on the 370Z NISMO gives it more downforce than any of its sector rivals.
Racing-inspired interior
Nissan knows that NISMO drivers have a passion for performance driving. To meet the demands of owners who like to fully exploit the 370Z performance and chassis, the new model features new Recaro seats that offer significant improvements in support and comfort.
Based on the acclaimed Recaro Sportster, the new seats have been tailored specifically for use in the 370Z NISMO and feature a host of detail changes to deliver maximum support for drivers. Every aspect of the seat and its position within the car has been analysed by Nissan to create the perfect driving position.
By adopting a new shell-based construction in preference over a traditional tubular frame seat, Nissan has also been able to improve rigidity and reduce weight at the same time. To complete the interior makeover, the seats are trimmed in red and black leather and Alcantara to match the steering wheel.
Incredible performance and improved chassis
The new 370Z NISMO is powered by a 344PS, 3.7-litre six-cylinder engine that delivers a raw and unforgettable driving experience. With exceptional torque at low revs and a broad power band, the 370Z NISMO can sprint from 0-100kph in just 5.2 seconds. Breathing through a NISMO dual exhaust system, the 370Z NISMO also delivers the perfect sporting soundtrack.
Available only as a coupe with a six-speed manual gearbox, the new 370Z NISMO features a number of suspension enhancements introduced as part of the 2015 MY updates (see section below for more details). To improve ride comfort, the rear spring and damper rates have been altered, while changes to the carpets and inner rear wheel arch protector have further reduced road noise.
Enhancements across the whole 370Z range
In addition to introducing a significant update package to the flagship NISMO model, Nissan has also made a raft of design and engineering improvements to the rest of the 370Z range – enhancing the driving experience and offering customers even better value for money.
Among the many detail changes for the 2015 Model Year are 18-inch wheels finished in Gun Metallic. Fitted as standard on standard and Pack models, they further improve the sporty appearance of the 370Z, giving it even more standout appeal.
Another significant improvement is the introduction of new seats. Designed to offer improved support and rigidity, the new Spinal seats use a shell construction that is both stronger and lighter than the previous metal frame units. The result is an improved driving position, enhanced comfort through high-speed corners and a sportier look.
Completing the 370Z’s update package is a revised suspension set-up that delivers improved ride quality and reduced cabin noise. Introduced across the range (including NISMO), the changes include revised rear spring and damper rates, a new inner wheel arch and new carpets. Combined, these improvements allow the driver to enjoy the 370Z’s strong performance without compromise.
Naturally, the 370Z retains all the features that have helped it become one of the strongest contenders in its sector. Power is supplied by a 328PS, 3.7-litre V6 engine that drives the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic transmission. The 370Z also remains the only car in the sector to offer Syncro Rev Control – the world’s first fully synchronised down/up shift rev control system.
Individual market prices and specifications will be announced closer to the launch later this year.
NISMO TAKES NEXT LEAP WITH 370Z NISMO ROADSTER CONCEPT AND GT-R LM NISMO RACE CAR
– On display at the Chicago Auto Show, full lineup of NISMO machines for the track, the street and potentially the future –
NISMO, Nissan’s performance arm, is poised to become an even greater force in the North American marketplace with its latest “takeover” at the Chicago Auto Show – four different NISMO models on sale now, two concepts and a racing machine that is ready to take on the world.
For more than 30 years NISMO has been a powerful part of Nissan, but only in recent years has the brand expanded in the United States on Nissan vehicles – first on the Z® sports car, then in 2013 on the JUKE NISMO, 2014 on the JUKE NISMO RS and most recently the mighty 600-horsepower 2015 GT-R NISMO.
NISMO is always looking to expand on the brand. At the 2015 Chicago Auto Show, the 370Z NISMO Roadster Concept was unveiled, a one-off design study created to gauge market interest in an ultimate factory Z® Roadster. Designed to provide the best of two worlds – the open-air driving exhilaration of a standard 370Z Roadster and the racing-inspired style and performance of a 370Z NISMO Coupe – it features unique engine, suspension, exterior and interior features versus standard Nissan 370Z Roadster models, including a 350-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 and NISMO-tuned suspension.
The new Z Concept sits side-by-side with the 240-plus horsepower Sentra NISMO Concept, first seen in 2013 at the Los Angeles International Auto Show.
“NISMO is the ultimate expression of Nissan’s ‘Innovation and Excitement’ as a performance and personalization brand,” said Pierre Loing, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America. “With its highly credible motorsport heritage and passionate attitude in pursuing victories and continuous performance improvement, the NISMO name is not to be taken lightly, nor are Nissans that wear the NISMO badge. This lineup helps reinforce NISMO’s goal of becoming the most recognized and respected performance brand from Japan.”
Taking On The World, One Le Mans At A Time The latest project for the NISMO team is the Le Mans P1-class Nissan GT-R LM NISMO – the ultimate Nissan GT-R, created to take on formidable competition on the highest levels. A global effort, the GT-R has been designed, engineered, built and tested by a team of carefully selected experts in Japan, the United States and Europe. Unlike other LM P1 cars, the GT-R’s V6 3.0-liter twin-turbo gasoline engine sits in the front of the front-wheel-drive car, while the hybrid power is harvested from the front driveline to augment acceleration.
This is the first time in 16 years that Nissan will be competing at the top class at Le Mans, but it has been a tour-de-force as an engine supplier in the LM P2 class with three wins over the past four years. Nissan has been also a major factor in the “Garage 56” at Le Mans, a unique program set up by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO) that is reserved for innovative technology that falls outside of normal regulations, with vehicles such as the ZEOD RC, which competed in 2014.
“LM P1 cars are the most extreme sports cars in racing today and for Nissan and NISMO, the opportunity to innovate at the highest level cannot be missed,” said Darren Cox, Global Head of Brand, Marketing & Sales, NISMO. “We are excited to be going head-to-head with the best sports car racing manufacturers in the world, representing the pinnacle of current racing technology, with energy recovery systems, fuel-efficient engines and innovative aerodynamics that will be transferable to Nissan road cars of the future.”
About NISMO: Nissan’s Global Motorsports and Performance Car Brand
- Performance brand of Nissan Motor Company, responsible for motorsports activities and specialty performance cars
- Founded in 1984 and has produced out-of-the-box factory performance and design variants of Nissan models as well as parts and accessories for more than 30 years
Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. (NISMO) was founded in September 1984 as a specialty company to support all motorsports activities of Nissan Motor Company (Nissan). As Nissan’s performance and enthusiast image leader, the NISMO mission is to achieve success in motorsports using Nissan vehicles, Nissan engines, and components. NISMO also is responsible for developing and marketing base vehicles and parts for competition, supporting the motorsports clientele that has grown globally over the past several years.
In February 2013, NISMO relocated its headquarters and R&D center to Tsurumi Operations Center, near Nissan’s Yokohama Plant Area No.3. The new headquarters centralized all the functions of the company into one building, co-locating engineers, designers, planners and business development professionals with the goal of accelerating the global expansion of the brand. Within the new headquarters, teams involved in activities such as motorsports engineering provide direct feedback from racing experiences and technology to teams involved in production car and parts development.
The headquarters building is home to 180 employees, including a single-floor layout of staff working in the race car maintenance center, engineering workshop, grinding room, carbon parts autoclave and a parts warehouse.
NISMO is an integral part of Nissan’s development process for future cars, as well as the prime player in the company’s motorsports strategy. As Nissan’s halo performance division, NISMO strives to solidify its role in the company in the years to come.
The spirit of NISMO is built on its motorsports heritage and creative engineering philosophy. High performance and bold-yet-intelligent design are the key ways it demonstrates this spirit, in both its race machines and road cars.
“NISMO’s high-performance sports models possess technology and performance garnered from decades of motorsports activities,” said Cox. “NISMO’s standard DNA of high quality, high performance, unique styling and dynamic sports-handling are injected into each product.”
