2016 Nissan 370Z
New for 2016
Changes for 2016 are limited to the addition of a new Deep Blue Pearl exterior color, and a Bose audio system for the 370Z coupe.
History on its Side
It’s never easy updating a nameplate with such history, but the 2016 Nissan 370Z honors the legacy evoked by the last letter of the alphabet. Showing just how far cars have come since the original Datsun 240Z, the 370Z is both a great-driving sports car and a modern cruiser with the road manners and technology of Nissan’s more mainstream models.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2016 Nissan 370Z offers everything a driving enthusiast could want. From its nimble rear-wheel drive chassis to its powerful engine, the 370Z pulls plenty of moves from the traditional sports car playbook.
All 370Z models feature a naturally-aspirated 3.7-liter V6. This engine has been in the inventory for years, and has seen use in a variety of models from Nissan and its luxury brand, Infiniti. In the 370Z, it provides plenty of muscle with a responsive and refined character.
In the base 370Z Coupe and Roadster, the V6 produces 332 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. All 370Z models are offered with either a seven-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual with Nissan’s Synchro RevMatch system, which automatically blips the throttle to smooth out shifts.
Ford a little added performance, there’s also a 370Z NISMO coupe that’s been tuned by Nissan’s performance division. The NISMO boasts an upgraded version of the 3.7-liter V6 with 350 hp and 276 lb-ft of torque, plus sportier suspension and brakes, and a limited-slip differential. The styling also gets an upgrade, with a more-aggressive front fascia, rear spoiler, and lightweight 19-inch wheels.
Nissan 370Z coupe models get an EPA-rated 21 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway)* with the seven-speed automatic transmission, and 21 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 26 mpg highway)* with the six-speed manual. The 370Z Roadster returns 21 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway)* with the automatic and 20 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 25 mpg highway)* with the manual.
Features and Trims
The 2016 Nissan 370Z is a two-seat sports car available as either a coupe or convertible. It comes in six distinct trim levels, with prices starting at $29,990**.
Even the base model comes well equipped with standard features like HID headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, electroluminescent gauges, pushbutton start, and remote-lowering windows
From there, the 370Z Sport adds features such as 19-inch wheels, heated exterior mirrors, a front chin aero deflector, and body-color rear spoiler, in addition to the applicable standard features from the base model.
The next model in the lineup is the Sport Tech, notable features of which include navigation, Nissan’s RearView Monitor, Bluetooth with streaming audio, and a Bose eight-speaker sound system.
For the standard 370Z, the top model is the Touring, which includes all of the applicable standard features from the previously-listed models, plus leather sport seats with driver lumbar support, synthetic suede trim, and aluminum-trimmed pedals.
The 370Z NISMO tops the Touring in terms of pricing, and brings some more specialized styling and performance upgrades. That includes the more powerful version of the 370Z-standard V6 engine, suspension, brake, and drivetrain upgrades, and revised styling listed above. There’s also a 370Z NISMO Tech model that includes technology features like navigation, the RearView Monitor, and a Bose audio system.
Note that the 370Z Roadster is available in base, Touring, and Touring Sport models, with broadly the same standard equipment offered on the 370Z coupe.
Exterior/Interior
The Nissan Z series of sports cars dates back to the original Datsun 240Z of 1970, and today’s 370Z incorporates much of that car’s visual DNA, but with a modern flair.
In profile view, the shape of the 2016 370Z’s fastback roofline and its long head definitely bring the 240Z to mind, while the convertible Roadster’s dramatically up-sweeping rear fenders give it one of the best shapes of any topless car on sale today.
Muscular fender flares aren’t present on the somewhat delicate 240Z, but they give the 370Z a more aggressive look, and make room for the standard 18-inch alloy wheels. Standard LED daytime running lights and taillights further help to update the look.
On the inside, the 370Z is all business. Its sport seats provide plenty of support during hard cornering, the steering wheel is perfectly sized, and the motorcycle-like three-bay gauge cluster is easy to read at a glance. The cabin can also be made pretty luxurious with leather seats, a Bose audio system, and rearview camera.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2015 Nissan 370Z includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and front, seated-mounted side, and curtain airbags. Nissan’s RewView Monitor is available as an option.
Bottom Line
The 2016 Nissan 370Z lives up to its legendary reputation with all of the qualities of a great sports car: evocative styling, a powerful engine, and joy-producing handling.
Be sure to contact us online or visit us at Hall Nissan Virginia Beach to schedule a test drive.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices list are the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other charges.
Image: Nissan