We have one thing to ask - Can we play the part of the passenger seat belt next time?

[didntyouhear via Sports Illustrated]

Customers can start placing orders for the new 370Z today, to do so, they’ll need to spend at least $29,930 for the base 6-speed manual transmission. The price then goes up to $31,230 with the 7-speed Autobox or $35,760 if you plunk down for the auto Touring model with leather seats.

There’s two options packages: the $3,000 Sport Package brings 19-inch wheels, sticky tires, front and rear spoilers, bigger brakes, the controversial SynchroRev Match system and the limited slip differential; the $1,850 Navigation Package ads satellite navigation, a 9.3 GB hard drive to store music on and an iPod interface.

Today also marks the start of a new ad slogan for Nissan, “SHIFT_the way you move.” Previous slogans used “SHIFT_” but with different phrases for each product.

Nissan's press release follows:

Nissan Announces Pricing on All-New 2009 370Z Coupe
Revised Marketing Tagline "SHIFT_the way you move" Also Revealed

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (Dec. 30, 2008) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) gets an early start on the new year with the announcement of pricing of the all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe and a revised marketing tagline. The new Z® goes on sale today at Nissan dealers nationwide with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* starting at $29,930 for the 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission and $31,230 with the new 7-speed automatic transmission. The new Z® is also offered in a 370Z Coupe Touring model, which is priced at $34,460 with the 6-speed manual and $35,760 with the 7-speed automatic transmission.

Two option packages are offered: the Sport Package, priced at just $3,000, with 19-inch RAYS forged wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires, aerodynamic front and rear spoiler, larger Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match (6-speed manual transmission only) and Viscous Limited Slip Differential; and the Navigation Package, priced at $1,850, with Hard Drive-based Nissan Navigation System, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and Interface System for iPod®.

As the most powerful Z® ever produced, the new 370Z hits dead center in the sports car "sweet spot" of performance, design and value – with less weight, more power and enhanced handling, quality and style. With a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter V6, choice of two advanced transmissions and a full array of driver-oriented interior features, the new 370Z is designed to be one of the top performance values in the world.

Also today Nissan announced the rollout of a revised marketing tagline: SHIFT_the way you move. Previously, SHIFT_ was used with multiple complement words, which varied by product or media application. The move to one set phrase "the way you move" reflects alignment of the direction Nissan is taking to meet changing consumer needs and wants.

"SHIFT_ has always been the core of Nissan's DNA. It is rethinking the ordinary, changing your point of view, and being original, forward thinking and challenging," said Christian Meunier, vice president, Nissan Marketing, NNA. "Our commitment to the philosophy of SHIFT_ has become even more critical as we look to the future and the pressures of economic and environmental change that are affecting consumer behavior in how they interact with and impact the world."

All Nissan national marketing materials will include the new SHIFT_the way you move tagline beginning in January.

[via Nissan]

This commercial for the new 370Z is a far cry from The Run promotional video made for the debut of the 350Z, but it's cool none-the-less. Just listen to the beautifully angry sounds made from the VQ37VHR 3.7-liter V6 and you'll agree it's almost as good as The Kinks.
Hat Tip to A. Kaiser!

[via The 370Z]

All-New 2009 Nissan Z®: Sculpted, Engineered and Equipped to SHIFT_ Driving Excitement
– Super Evolution of the Iconic Nissan Z®Expands the Sports Car “Sweet Spot” With An Unmatched Balance of Performance, Style and Value
In the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z® since its re-introduction as a 2003
model, nearly every piece and component has been rethought or redesigned –
shorter wheelbase, greater use of lightweight body materials, new engine with more
horsepower and improved fuel economy, a new 7-speed automatic transmission with
paddle shifters, a world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching system for the
manual transmission, new high quality driver-centric interior and new available
technology features.
But to get the full measure of the new model, now designated the Nissan 370Z, one
need look no farther than the subtle upswept line of the new rear quarter window.
Quintessentially Z®, the window harkens back to the original 1970 240Z – a car that
revolutionized the sports car world with its unique combination of performance, style
and, especially, value. The new 370Z solidifies the Z®’s position as one of the most
desirable sports cars on the planet – at an affordable price – bringing true sports car
performance to everyone.
“The fresh character of the 2009 Nissan 370Z is immediately apparent in the crisp
new exterior design, which is sportier yet still immensely identifiable as a Nissan Z
®,” said Al Castignetti, vice president, Sales, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc.
“One usually thinks of evolution as being linear. The new 370Z’s ‘super evolution’
builds on the best features of both the first and last generations Z–cars – respectful
but not retro, simple yet sophisticated, and 110 percent pure Z®.”
Solidifying the strengths of its immediate predecessor, the new 370Z was conceived
as an “Everyday Sports Car,” targeting segment-leading performance and a base

MSRP of around $30,000 (final performance figures and pricing to be available at a
later date).
“The new 370Z lives in the sweet spot of performance, style and value, a position
that Nissan invented with the original Z® . It’s an authentic sports car that you don’t
have to make sacrifices to own – or drive everyday,” said Castignetti.
The new 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe model is scheduled to go on sale in North America
in January 2009, followed by a new 370Z Roadster for the 2010 model year.

The New Exterior: Not Just Sculptural, Functional
The 2009 370Z’s dynamic new styling offers dual benefits – a more aggressive
appearance and a lighter, tighter structure for enhanced performance. The new Z’s
wheelbase is nearly four inches shorter than the previous generation Z® (100.4
inches versus 104.3 inches), accomplished by moving the rear wheels forward in the 2nd
generation FM platform, while overall length is reduced by 2.7 inches (167.1
inches versus 169.8 inches). At the same time, the overall width been increased by
1.3 inches, the rear track by 2.2 inches and overall height reduced by 0.3 inches,
giving the 370Z a much more aggressive stance.
The more compact exterior dimensions and expanded use of lightweight materials
help reduce weight. For the first time, the Z® features aluminum door panels, along
with an all-aluminum hood (the previous aluminum hood design utilized steel
reinforcements) and an aluminum hatch.
At the same time, the body structure was extensively revised, improving front body
torsion rigidity by 30 percent; a new front suspension cradle to reduce front body
lateral bending; new rear structural reinforcements; and an underbody “V-bar” to
help reduce rear lateral bending. Other enhancements include the use of a carbon
fiber composite radiator housing and strengthening of the rear fender and hatch
areas.
Rear body torsion rigidity is improved by up to 22 percent and rear body vertical
bending rigidity is improved by up to 30 percent. The result is enhanced overall
solidity and handling capability. Even with all of the new body strengthening
measures the overall body-in-white is lighter than the previous body-in-white.
“As every race car driver knows, weight is the enemy of performance and rigidity is
the foundation for handling – but they usually work at cross purposes from each
other,” said Castignetti. “With the new 370Z, the engineers were able to build a
body that is both stronger and lighter, enhancing Z® ’s athletic performance abilities.”
Along with its new structure and stance, the 370Z has a taut new skin – one that
looks completely new, yet completely Z®. The exterior design incorporates
intentional 240Z styling cues, a sleek aerodynamic shape, a “dynamic motion” feel
with a dramatic cantilevered roof (with Nissan GT-R styling cues) and a “low visual
gravity.”
The coefficient of drag is 0.30 (0.29 with the Sport Package), the same as the
previous generation 350Z Coupe. The new Z® also maintains the previous
generation’s zero front lift and zero rear lift when equipped with the rear spoiler,
thanks to extensive aerodynamics efforts – including an “inverse area” front bumper
design which smoothes the flow of air to the sides of the vehicle, while the rear
design maximizes the control of air flow from the roof to the rear hatch. In addition,
the front overhang was extended 1.2 inches and more than 200 rear quarter panel
patterns were made and wind tunnel tested to counter the negative aerodynamic
effects of shortening the wheelbase (versus the 350Z).
“The 370Z incorporates all of the signature Z® elements – the long nose, canopy
cockpit, muscular fenders, vertical door handles,” said Castignetti. “What’s new is a
more wheel-oriented, organic design with more of a sense of precision and agility.”
One of the most distinctive features of the bold new exterior design is the
headlight/taillight treatment, which features a fierce “boomerang” shape. High
Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with auto on/off feature are
standard.

The hood’s deep character lines continue over the windshield into the new,
cantilevered roof design. The intense broad-shouldered rear shape is highlighted by
the integration of the boomerang taillights and wide, flared rear fenders.
The 370Z’s sleek silhouette is defined by its upswept quarter window design that is
echoed by the dynamic upward curvature in the lower rocker panel and the sense of
the taut sheet metal molding itself around the wheels and frame. Attention to detail
and functionality is evident throughout the exterior design, including the addition of
a flashing (repeater lamp) side marker lamp/emblem.
Performance body pieces are available as part of the optional Sport Package,
including a front chin spoiler and rear spoiler. The 370Z is offered in seven exterior
colors: Pearl White, Monterey Blue, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Black, Solid Red,
Platinum Graphite and a launch-year only, premium signature color, Chicane Yellow.
A Driver’s Cockpit Equipped To Make Car and Driver Feel Like One
The interior design of the new 370Z continues the Z® tradition of enhancing driving
pleasure, no matter what the road or traffic conditions offer. “As an Everyday Sports
Car, every aspect of the interior needs to address two needs – support and enhanced
driver performance during spirited driving and offer high levels of comfort and utility
for normal commuting and around-town activities,” said Castignetti.
The traditional 2-seat layout is built around a deeply scooped instrument panel with
a full-length center console separating the driver and passenger’s seat. In the rear
is an open cargo area with enhanced storage and accessibility. The design focus
incorporates a “layer concept,” with an information layer, an operation layer and a
holding layer.
The information layer provides enhanced visibility with easy access to all key data.
The gauges are once again attached to the steering column, so the driver doesn’t
have to choose between the perfect steering wheel position and visibility of the
gauges. The upper steering wheel opening in front of the gauges was also enlarged
to provide a better view of the readouts.

Gauge size has been increased over the previous generation design, including a 15
percent increase in the tachometer, and the gauge angle has been adjusted.
The instrument panel retains the traditional 3-pod cluster with oil temperature,
voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer now include an “initial
sweep” function, coming alive when the Z® is first started.
The operation layer includes the steering wheel, shifter and switchgear. The steering
wheel is an all-new “oval” 3-spoke design, which offers baseball-style stitching,
improved thumb grips and palm rest areas for improved feel on long drives. The
surface of the leather-wrapped wheel is “shaved” to provide a more kidney-like
shape to better fit in the hand. The shifter was also redesigned, with the manual
transmission shifter padded in different areas to improve the accuracy of diagonal
shifts and to feel softer in the hand for forward and backward motions.
The holding layer includes the seats, knee pads and door trim support. The driver’s
seat is uniquely different from the passenger’s seat, with lower seat cushion cut-outs
on the sides where the thighs rest – allowing the driver to push on the pedals
without the seat fighting them. The seat also features an improved frame that helps
it to better hold the driver in place during cornering. It also offers a 0.4-inch lower
hip point than the previous Z® driver’s seat.
Both the driver and passenger’s seats are structured with an anti-slip material in the
main seating surface. The sporty woven cloth seats feature standard 8-way
driver’s/4-way passenger manual adjustments, with heated 4-way power-adjustable
leather-appointed seats standard with the 370Z Touring model. Adjustable front
seat Active Head Restraints are also standard.
The door armrests have been designed to provide extra support when cornering and
the kneepads are better integrated to help the driver maintain the proper position
while cornering.

In addition, the available aluminum pedal pads utilize a new rubber insert material to
improve grip and the accelerator pedal and brake pedal are completely new. The
accelerator pedal is now floor-mounted (versus hanging) to provide better contact
with the foot, less effort to operate and easier pedal-to-pedal foot/heel movement.
The brake pedal is a new variable ratio design with enhanced rigidity and easier
operation.
Interior packaging is also enhanced from the previous generation, including the
removal of the rear strut brace (replaced with less intrusive structural
reinforcements) and by adding a new “shelf” area behind the seats, creating an ideal
area for storing briefcases. A retractable cover is standard on the 370Z Touring
model. A locking glove compartment has been added.
Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent Key™
with Push Button Start, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power
door locks with auto-lock feature, a center console box with a new non-intrusive
cover design, automatic climate control, rear window defroster with timer, two 12-
volt power outlets, four cupholders (two in door panels, two in center console), dual
overhead map lights and a AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system with illuminated
steering wheel-mounted controls.
The 370Z Touring model adds standard 4-way power adjustable heated synthetic
suede and leather-appointed sport seats with adjustable lumbar support, 6CD Bose
audio system with eight speakers (includes dual subwoofer) and MP3/WMA playback,
XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver and passenger seat mappocket.An optional Navigation Package includes the touch-screen Nissan Hard DriveNavigation System with XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic information (XM® subscription required, sold separately), 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and Interface System for iPod®. The 370Z interior is available Black cloth or for 370Z Touring models, a choice of Gray, Black or Persimmon leather-appointed seating.

“Of all the tremendous enhancements to the new Z® interior, one that is easy to
overlook is the enhanced quality – both in fit and finish and in the quality of
materials and designs,” said Castignetti. “Z® is proving once again that outstanding
performance is available at an affordable price and so is outstanding quality.”
Taking Performance To A New Level
Since so many aspects of a sports car’s performance come down to the simple
formulation of power-to-weight, the engineering teams behind the development of
the new 370Z made that their priority focus. On the weight reduction side of the
equation, they put the new Z® on an extremely restrictive diet. Beyond just the
pounds shed with the body-in-white, every component throughout the vehicle was
scrutinized. For example, fuel tank weight was reduced by 13.9 pounds, the exhaust
system by 3.8 pounds, the audio system by 3.5 pounds and the 19-inch wheels by
approximately seven pounds each for the fronts and six pounds for the rears – an
estimated 225 pounds total.
Along with the reduced weight, the center of gravity was lowered through use of a
lower engine positioning (-0.6 inches) and lower driver hip point (-0.4 inches).
Rotating mass was reduced with a shorter carbon-fiber composite driveshaft. All of
these weight savings were needed, of course, to counter the added weight of the
Z®’s enhanced body structure and new technology and safety features. The net
weight reduction is 95 pounds for the 2009 Nissan 370Z over the comparable 350Z
Enthusiast model.
On the power side of the targeted class-leading power-to-weight goal, the new Z®
picks up 26 horsepower utilizing the fourth generation of Nissan’s award-winning VQ-
series V6. The new 3.7-liter VQ37VHR engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and
Lift) is rated at 332 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm,
compared with the previous 3.5-liter V6’s 306 horsepower @ 6,800 rpm and 268 lb-
ft of toque @ 4,800 rpm.

Along with its larger displacement, the new engine gives better power delivery all the
way to the 7,500 rpm redline, improved low-end power and more high-end torque,
creating an entirely new driving experience. Approximately 35 percent of the
engine’s parts are new, versus the previous design.
Key to the enhanced performance is the VVEL system, which is able to optimize
intake valve open/close movements, allowing the needed air to be sent promptly to
the combustion chamber at the precisely optimized time.
Since the VVEL system can adjust to open the valves slightly, it improves fuel
efficiency by reducing camshaft friction and fuel waste. It also provides cleaner
emissions by allowing for quicker warm-up of the catalyst and by stabilizing
combustion when the engine is cool. The engine also has a new “growl” from the
dual exhaust system due to reduced back pressure, enhancing driving enjoyment.
The new engine is backed by a choice of two new advanced transmissions, both
designed to improve driver performance. The new close-ratio 6-speed manual
includes an available world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching system,
which allows drivers of any skill level to experience professional-like gear shift
performance. The “SynchroRev Match” function automatically controls and adjusts
engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially
“blipping” the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the
driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves vehicle balance and
smoothness by reducing the typical “shock” when the clutch is engaged. The system
can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer less
vehicle intervention. The SynchroRev Match system is offered as part of the optional
Sport Package.
“The SynchroRev Match system takes nothing away from the driver – you still have
to engage the clutch and move the shifter – it just gives you a performance edge by
smoothing out the gear engagement,” said Castignetti.
Overall shift feeling has also been improved, with reduced vibration and noise
(accomplished through improved lubrication) and a modification to the lever angle of
the short-throw shifter.

The 370Z’s new 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Adaptive
Shift Control (ASC) is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in
manual mode with a target time of 0.5 seconds between shifts. Drivers can use the
standard paddle shifters or the shift lever. With new torque converter lock-up logic,
the new 7-speed automatic feels more direct, like a manual transmission. The new
7-speed’s wide gear ratios offer improved fuel efficiency, while the Adaptive Shift
Control is designed to adjust to the driver’s driving style.
“The combination of the new 3.7-liter engine and advanced new transmissions puts
the Z® solidly at the front of the class in terms of responsive acceleration,” said
Castignetti. “Add in the enhanced handling from the revised suspension – which
provides better grip, reduced understeer, improved road holding, reduced impact
harshness and better ride – and you’ve got a new standard for thrilling
performance.”
Estimated fuel economy is 18 mpg City/26mpg Highway for both the 7-speed
automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions – increases of 1 mpg City/2 mpg
Highway for the automatic and 1 mpg Highway for the manual transmission versus
the 2008 350Z.
The previous generation Z®’s suspension has also been rethought to reduce weight,
improve strength and improve camber change and lateral displacement. The double-
wishbone front suspension (replacing the lower multi-link setup in the 350Z) uses
lighter forged aluminum arms and a lightweight rigid aluminum-alloy cradle, along
with a lighter stabilizer bar with a 35 percent improved lever ratio.
The 4-link rear suspension is also now stiffer and lighter, with the rear cradle entirely
integrated into a single part (no welding). All-new “high response” shock absorbers
are utilized on each corner, with ride comfort improved through reduced shock
friction.
The standard 370Z wheel and tire package features 18x8.0-inch front/18x9.0-inch 5-
spoke lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/50R18 front/P245/45R18 rear
Yokohama ADVAN Sport maximum performance summer tires.

Also available as part of the optional Sport Package are 19-inch RAYS forged
lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A P245/40R19
front/P275/35R19 tires.

The Z ®’s already advanced braking system has been upgraded to include improved
overall brake feel, better fade resistance and improved NVH. With adoption of the
new variable ratio brake pedal, pedal stroke feel is more direct. The standard 4-
wheel vented disc brake system includes Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with
Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The optional Sport
Package includes Nissan Sport Brakes with large diameter 14.0-inch front and 13.8-
inch rear rotors (versus 12.6-inch front/12.1-inch rear standard rotors) with 4-piston
front and 2-piston rear aluminum calipers.
Steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion
deign that has been reworked (including redesigned mounting bushings and a
column insulator) to provide improved response. Unwanted steering kickback and
vibrations are reduced with the addition of a solenoid valve that acts like a damper
when there is a harsh impact load. The standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)
system has also been revised with new electronic hardware and all-new logic.
The Nissan 370Z’s long list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced
Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt
and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air
bags; roof-mounted side-impact air bags; seat belts with pretensioners and load
limiters, Active Head Restraints, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple
zones, Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Vehicle Security System and Tire
Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

A Simplified Model Line-up
The new 2009 370Z’s model line-up has been greatly simplified, versus the 2008
350Z, with just two models – 370Z and the 370Z Touring.

The 370Z Touring adds heated leather-appointed power seats, HomeLink
® Universal Transceiver, Bluetooth ® Hands-free Phone System, 8-speaker Bose ® audio system,
XM ® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription, sold separately) cargo cover and aluminum
pedals to the long list of standard Z® features and equipment.
Two option packages are offered: the Sport Package, with 19-inch RAYS forged
wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires, aerodynamic front and rear spoiler, larger
Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match (6-speed manual transmission only) and
Viscous Limited Slip Differential; and the Navigation Package, with Hard Drive-based
Nissan Navigation System, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and Interface System for
iPod®.

“This exciting new Z® represents the essence of the Nissan brand, just as the original
240Z did nearly 40 years before,” said Castignetti. “It provides passionate
performance at an excellent value – just what was needed then and just what sports
car enthusiasts are looking for today.”

At a Glance: 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe
The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z, the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z®since its
reintroduction as a 2003 model, solidifies the strengths of its predecessor with an
unmatched balance of performance, style and value. Targeting segment-leading
performance and a base price of around $30,000, the new Z® provides passionate
performance at an excellent value. This new “Everyday Sports Car” is scheduled to go on
sale in North America in January 2009, followed by a new 370Z Roadster for the 2010
model year.
Nearly every piece and component of the 370Z has been rethought or redesigned
(compared to the previous 350Z) – a shorter wheelbase, greater use of lightweight body
materials, larger engine with 26 more horsepower, a new 7-speed automatic transmission, a
world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching 6-speed manual transmission, a new high
quality interior design and new available technology features.
The 370Z’s new aerodynamic body is more compact and offers a more aggressive stance.
Attention to details such as the new “boomerang” headlights and taillights increases its
dynamic presence, elevating the overall styling to much higher quality and emotional levels.
Performance has been enhanced with a more rigid body structure, better power-to-weight
ratio and a new 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and
Lift Control (VVEL). Crisp handling is provided by a refined 4-wheel independent
suspension, while steering and braking systems, including available Nissan Sport Brakes,
have also been upgraded.
The dramatic new interior utilizes an innovative driver-centric three-layer design which
groups items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place –
so drivers feel completely connected and engaged whenever and wherever they drive.
Available technology features include Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® with
Real-Time Traffic Information (XM ® subscription required, sold separately) and 9.3GB Music
Box Hard Drive and a Bluetooth ® Hands-free Phone System. The new Z® is offered in two
models: 370Z and 370Z Touring.

Highlights of the 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe include:
Body:
•All-new high rigidity body with a dynamic presence and enhanced aerodynamics
•Authentic Z® sports car design and proportions with long hood and canopy cockpit
•Improved body rigidity for enhanced handling, NVH (noise/vibration/harshness), ride
comfort and safety
•Shorter wheelbase (100.4 vs. 104.3 inches) and length (167.1 vs. 169.8 inches) than
previous generation Z; more aggressive stance
•Lightweight aluminum hood, doors and hatchback
•High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights and LED brake lights with
distinctive “boomerang” design
•Signature vertical door handles, dual remote control mirrors
•Electric rear window defroster
•Front fender-mounted “flashing” Z® emblems/sidemarkers
•Available front chin spoiler and rear spoiler

Engine and Driveline
•Front engine/rear-wheel drive
•Fourth-generation VQ series 3.7-liter engine, 24-valve DOHC V6 (VQ37VHR), rated at
332 horsepower @ 7,000 RPM, 270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 RPM
•Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) system
•Micro-finished crankshaft and camshaft; small pitch, silent cam chain; drive-by-wire
throttle
•Available electronically controlled 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift
mode, Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and standard paddle
shifters; or 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission with available “SynchroRev Match,”
the world’s first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission allowing
perfectly matched heel-toe-like downshifting
•Dual outlet exhaust
•Carbon Fiber composite driveshaft

Suspension, Steering and Braking
•4-wheel independent multi-link suspension with use of lightweight aluminum
components
•New double-wishbone front suspension, rear multi-link suspension; 3-point front strut
tower brace; high response shock absorbers
•Large diameter front and rear hollow stabilizer bars
•Vehicle speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering
•Available Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD)
•Power-assisted vented front and rear disc brakes, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System
(ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)
•Available Nissan Sport Brakes with 14.0-inch front/13.8-inch rear rotors and 4-piston
front/2-piston rear aluminum calipers
•18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and P225/50R18 front / 245/45R18 rear Yokohama
ADVAN Sport tires
•Available 19-inch RAYS lightweight 5-spoke forged-alloy wheels with P245/40R19 front /
275/35R19 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires

Interior Features
•Enhanced, high quality interior with innovative, driver-centric “three-layer” design with
information, operation and holding layers
•2-passenger seating, with unique driver and passenger seat designs and functions
•Driver’s seat shaped to help hold the body firmly in place without interfering with
shifting
•8-way manual driver’s seat, 4-way manual passenger’s seat with manual seatback fold-
down function; available 4-way power adjustable heated seats
•Standard black woven “carbon” seat cloth; available synthetic suede and leather-
appointed seating
•3-bay gauge pods – similar to the original 240Z design
•Tilt steering column with integrated instrument cluster
•Adjustable front head restraints
•Standard automatic temperature control
•Leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel with Z®emblem
•Revised center console with aluminum styling trim
•Available Bose®audio system with 6-disc CD changer and 8 speakers (standard on
Touring model)
•Available XM®Satellite Radio (standard on Touring model, XM®subscription required)
•Available Bluetooth®Hands-free Phone System (standard on Touring model)
•Available Nissan Navigation System with XM NavTraffic®with Real-Time Traffic
Information (XM®subscription required, sold separately) and 9.3GB Music Box Hard
Drive, Interface System for iPod®
•Power windows with auto one-touch up and down feature
•Power door locks with auto locking feature
•Available aluminum pedals (standard on Touring model)
•Available HomeLink®Universal Transceiver (standard on Touring model)
•Two 12-volt power outlets, four cupholders (two in door panels, two in center console)
•Available rear cargo area cover (standard on Touring model)
•Standard cruise control
•Standard Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition Safety and Security
•Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags
with seat belt and occupant classification sensors
•Front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags
•Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags
•3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
•3-point ALR/ELR seatbelts (driver’s seatbelt ELR only)
•Front seat Active Head Restraints
•Zone Body Construction
•Energy-absorbing steering column
•Standard Vehicle Security System
•Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System
•Standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
•Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Models
•370Z Coupe offered in two models: 370Z and 370Z Touring
•Two available packages: Sport Package and Navigation
(Anybody think Nissan is being thin on the details? We've had textbooks with fewer pages)

Initial impressions are Nissan’s designers have done a great job thoroughly updating the 370Z. It’s about the same size inside and out, but it looks much more aggressive and more than a bit like a BMW Z4 Coupe around the rear 3/4. The interior, which in the old car was a bit too cheap, has been seriously reworked and should prove a much nicer place to spend time. Oh, and can anyone figure out what the Differential Power Switch does?

Thanks to a leaky auto show website we now know the 370Z will be capable of 332 hp, an increase of 26 hp from the 3.5-liter VQ V6. We also know the Nismo S-Tune will bring upgrades tot he 370Z shortly after its release. It's worth noting, again, all of this has happened before the car has been released. [GTR-World]

The Original Z

The biggest single influence on the original Z was Yutaka Katayama, affectionately referred to as the “Father of the Z”. In the pre-Z years, Katayama fell in love with the Jaguar XKE and viewed it as perfect; the epitome of the sports car. Fueled by Katayama’s passion and the acquisition of the Prince Motor Company (a small company of enthusiasts who birthed the Skyline) in 1966, Nissan put the Z into production during October of 1969. Badged as the Datsun Fairlady Z in Japan, this small GT gained huge acclaim for both its design and performance. When it came time to sell the Z in the U.S. the cars were shipped wearing the Fairlady badges, but Katayama felt strongly against using the Fairlady name in America and shifted to the numbered designation that we know today (the Fairlady name is still used in Japan). Despite this small discrepancy between the two markets, the Z quickly gained cult status here in America.

The New Z

Fast forward to today and you’ll see that same kind of passion in the new-for-2009 Nissan 370Z. The five-point design criteria for the original Z car was:

1.) A coupe design for safety and comfort.
2.) A style that would set it apart from other coupes.
3.) A design that allowed part sharing for lower development costs.
4.) An innovative use of design and technology.
5.) It had to be functional and fast.

The outgoing 350Z was a great attempt to rebirth these original design philosophies, but the car was portly; something the original Z was most definitely not. It appears Nissan's attempted to combat this, shortening the 370Z significantly and returning it to the 99-inch wheelbase, long regarded as the "perfect" sports car wheelbase. This cut in length translates into a lighter, more taught Z; the added horsepower doesn’t hurt either. Katayama would be proud.

Z vs. Z

These changes (and others) beg a comparison to the original car, so let's do that. Below we’ll dissect the design of the 2009 Nissan 370Z in each sector of the car — the front, the side, the rear, the interior and of course, the badging.

Front

Other than the twin protruding “teeth” in the grille, the most noticeable change to the front end of the 370Z is a set of controversial “boomerang” headlights mimicking the design language set forth by the new 2009 Maxima.
The lights now house LED turn signals as opposed to the 350Z’s bumper mounted set. Gone are the geometric shapes that dominated the front of the outgoing car and we welcome the new aggressively shaped mouth, the outer edge of which hints at its brethren, Nissan GTR. Add the lights to the toothy grin of the grille and you'll see a much more aggressive look to the 370Z and add a sense of depth to the front when compared to the outgoing model.

Side

The first thing you’ll notice on the side of the 370Z is the radically changed upper profile which now peaks sharply at the top of the A-pillar (more than a little reference to the GTR) and slopes quickly toward the rear of the car.
The new window shape is a distinct throwback to the original 1969 240Z and helps highlight the ultra aggressive rear fenders. The fender edges have also grown in size to add to the muscular new stance. The lower rocker area has been reshaped to help lessen the 370Z’s visual mass and provide interest to the previously dull body side. Also of note is the shorter wheelbase and overall length. If you look closely you’ll see that Nissan took most of the visual mass out of the front and rear overhangs, but less noticeable is the decreased surface area between the trailing door shut line and the rear wheel opening.
The controversial mechanically designed door handle returns, but in a more streamlined, delicate form. It features a raised touch surface for the keyless entry system; a feature similar to that found on the GT-R.

Rear

The muscular, shorter tail of the 370Z is clearly visible when directly compared with the 350Z. This is the view where the rear haunches are most noticeable; punching out from the rear fender sheet metal. The roof/hatch cut line sweeps quickly to the rear and forms the outer edge of the new “boomerang” style rear LED taillight. Gone is the rear wiper setup, providing a much cleaner look to the rear hatch glass which itself has been reshaped and now tucks in between two channels forming the top edge of the deck surface. The deck surface now sits taller with a taught trailing edge with an integrated CHMSL. The rear plate pocket sits lower in the fascia drawing your eye toward the two large tailpipes and pulls its shape from the 1984 300ZX model. Gone are the twin reverse lamps of the 350Z, replaced by a single lamp situated low on the fascia, between the tailpipes.

Interior

The new interior looks to be a vast improvement over the 350Z and follows in line with current Nissan/Infiniti interior design language as well as paying homage to the original 240Z. The 3 spoke steering wheel is taken from the new ‘09 Maxima as are the navigation and HVAC controls. The main adjustable gauge cluster retains its 3 pods with the tachometer taking center stage, the speedometer sitting to the right and to the left is a new driver information display containing all the secondary readouts. The instrument panel beltline remains low and wraps into the doors and the console sweeps into the center stack; design features from the original 240Z. The triple gauge pod returns at the top of the center stack and houses the oil and volt gauges as well as a clock, now located in the furthest binnacle. Continuing the tradition of current sporting Nissans is a push button start for the keyless entry system. Nissan even included a cup holder for your Big Gulp. The door skins feature a new cut and sew leather pad (also seen on the console), a huge improvement in comfort, though the passenger loses the door pull from the 350Z. The large cross support bar of the 350Z is gone, replaced by a smaller, stiffer bar that does not impede on rear storage space.

Badge

The design of the 2009 370Z badge resembles the outgoing model’s, but like the exterior of the car, the Z is now more crisp, more muscular and more purposeful; the perfect expression of this new model. It can be found on the front nose, the front fenders aft of the front wheels and prominently displayed on the airbag cover of the new steering wheel.

Conclusion

The 2009 Nissan 370Z arrives with the long hood, short rear deck proportion of the original 240Z and does so in a fresh and handsome new way. Although we'll have to see it in person to know for sure, so far this appears much less an evolution of the 350Z and more a homage to the original Z car design philosophies, something we wholeheartedly welcome.

The redesigned Fairlady Z breaks through the usual bloat-a-thon most automakers disguise as platform development and gets both a smaller wheelbase and lightweight body materials. The innovative Variable Valve Event and Lift system is Nissan's take on how the greasy bits in this new engine should be controlled. VVEL gives the Engine Control Module complete control of both valve lift and timing using DC stepper motors to increase cylinder head flow efficiency. Translation: More power, better fuel economy and greater responsiveness. Transmission choices include a 6-speed that actually does the heel-toe downshift throttle blip for you electronically or a 7-speed automatic specifically tailored to the killjoy tastes of Buzz Killington. [LA AutoShow]

ALL-NEW 2009 NISSAN Z MAKES ITS WORLD DEBUT IN EA'S NEED FOR SPEED UNDERCOVER

EA and Nissan shift into high-gear this holiday! TheNeed for Speed series continues the tradition of featuring the most desirable cars as Black Box, a studio of Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ:ERTS) and Nissan today revealed the highly-anticipated all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z. This marks the first time an auto manufacturer has partnered with a videogame company for the world premiere reveal of a car. The Nissan ZÒ will be available exclusively in this holiday’s hottest action driving title, Need for Speed™ Undercover, available in North America on November 18 and in Europe on November 21.

“For the past 15 years, Need for Speed has helped define contemporary automotive culture by bridging the gap between gamers and the world’s hottest cars. As such, we are very excited to partner with one of the automotive powerhouses today to exclusively reveal the all-new Nissan ZÒ,” said Keith Munro, vice president of Marketing at Electronic Arts. “Need for Speed is about style, fast-paced action and power; this is definitely a car made for Need for Speed fans. Come November, they’ll be able to test drive the all-new 370Z in the game before the car is released on the market.”

“Our relationship with EA has been instrumental in bringing the Nissan brand to a passionate and unique audience,” says Christian Meunier, vice president, Nissan Marketing. “By launching the all-new 2009 Nissan ZÒ first through Need for Speed: Undercover, we also gain the spirit and energy that EA gamers experience so strongly. Together with EA, we have truly integrated the all-new 370Z in the overall game experience in a meaningful, multi-layered and profound way.”

With the signature boomerang headlights and taillights to the enhanced powertrain, Need for Speed Undercover designers worked closely with Nissan to accurately replicate the overall look, feel and performance of the all-new Nissan ZÒ. From the game’s opening moment, players will be thrust right into the action with gamers whipping the 370Z in-and-out of traffic at high speed.

The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z is a super evolution of the iconic Nissan ZÒ, building on the strengths of it’s predecessor, finding the sports car “sweet spot” in performance, style, and value. The 2009 Nissan Z marks the first full redesign of the Nissan ZÒ since its reintroduction as a 2003 model.

The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z Coupe will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 19, hitting dealerships in early 2009.

Need for Speed Undercover takes players back to the franchise’s roots and re-introduces break-neck cop chases and spectacular highway battles. Players discover a world of high-stakes and high-speed action in some of the world’s hottest cars. The all-new Heroic Driving Engine propels the action forward as players experience the dramatic story through spectacular Hollywood-style live-action in-game movies.

Nissan offers the first look at the upcoming 2009 370Z Coupe, which makes its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show on 19 November. The all-new 2009 Nissan 370Z, the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z since its reintroduction as a 2003 model, solidifies the strengths of its predecessor with an unmatched balance of performance, style and value. The all-new Z will go on sale at Nissan dealers in early 2009.

[Source: Nissan]