The initial excitement from the drifting teaser of the upcoming Nissan Z Nismo could be soon followed by a letdown as the hot Z will reportedly be an auto-only affair.
Screenshots of what appears to be an order guide for the 2024 Nissan Z, reveal that the 6-speed manual gearbox will be limited to the Sport and Performance trims, leaving the Nismo with the exclusive option of the 9-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.
The Nissan Z Nismo highlighted in the official teaser was indeed an automatic, as revealed by the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel and the lack of a third pedal. Still, Nissan fans hoped for a manual option for the sportscar, as is the case with the regular Z. Unfortunately, the recent post on the NewNissanZ forum suggests otherwise.
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A possible explanation for the lack of a manual – if confirmed – would be that this particular gearbox might not be compatible with the potentially increased torque figures of the Nismo. Nissan has yet to announce the specifications of the performance flagship of the Z range, but the model is expected to come fitted with a tuned version of the twin-turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine, reportedly producing as much as 500 hp (373 kW / 507 PS).
The leaked order catalog also reveals the color palette of the Nissan Z Nismo. Bi-tone options include Stealth Gray, Everest White Pearl, Passion Red Tricoat, and Brilliant Silver combined with a Superblack roof. There is also the Black Diamond Pearl shade for stealthier looks, and optional dual racing stripes. In any case, the interior comes with leather and Alcantara upholstery.
Nissan has yet to announce a debut date for the Nismo-branded Z which will arrive in the US this summer.
