2026 Nissan Z

The 2026 Nissan Z is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car and part of a long line of similarly named sports cars that stretches all the way back to the early '70s. This newest version was introduced for the 2023 model year, dropping the various numbers and sticking solely with "Z" for its name. Its styling echoes classic Z cars, but its powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, modern cabin aesthetics and technology mean it's a thoroughly 21st-century car. Seeing as how the Z was so recently reintroduced, we're not anticipating any major changes for the 2026 model year.

Edmunds spotlight: Nismo makes a difference

Nissan brought back the Nismo edition in 2024, and with it a variety of upgrades that sharpen the Z's performance. The suspension is firmer, the steering is more direct and accurate, and the brakes are bigger. Combined with Nismo-exclusive wheels and extra grippy tires, the Z Nismo promises a sharper driving experience than the standard car, which we believe is soft enough to feel more like a grand tourer than a proper sports car. The Nismo's engine puts out 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft, which is up 20 hp and 34 lb-ft from the other Z trims. Curiously, although a nine-speed automatic is standard on the rest of the Z lineup, the optional six-speed manual transmission isn't available on the Nismo. Go figure.

Competitors to consider

As with all classic nameplates, the Z has a crosstown rival — in this case the Toyota GR Supra. While it's true the current Supra owes its existence to a joint venture between Toyota and BMW, Toyota has given the Supra an edgy character and unique personality. Other choices for Z shoppers include the BMW 2 Series and even the Ford Mustang, both of which offer small rear seats that are useful in a pinch. They're also both plenty quick, especially if you're smart when filling out your options sheet.

We love to see a sports car in the Nissan lineup, but we'd like to see Nissan imbue every Z model with some of the Nismo's edge. And, while we're filling out our wish list, give the Nismo the manual transmission.