It’s at the 2026 New York Auto Show: The Anticipated 6-Speed Manual 2027 Nissan Z NISMO

• Z NISMO now offers a six-speed manual transmission engineered specifically for the performance grade.

• GT-R-derived front brake rotors reduce weight and improve cooling for repeated track use.

• The manual NISMO Z is sure to be a favourite among track enthusiasts.

Nissan is updating the seventh-generation Z NISMO for 2027 with notable changes, including targeted chassis revisions and a major addition for enthusiasts: an available six-speed manual transmission on the Z NISMO. The refreshed coupe is scheduled to arrive at dealerships this summer, with pricing to be released closer to launch.

For 2027, Z NISMO buyers will be able to order the track-oriented model with a manual gearbox engineered specifically for the grade –a true driving enthusiast’s preferred operating tool. The transmission uses an upgraded clutch compared to the Z Sport and Z Performance, along with a revised shift lever travel intended to shorten throws and deliver more direct gear changes.

Nissan also recalibrated the twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 for manual-equipped NISMO models. Throttle and ignition timing adjustments were made to deliver sharper responses and a more sustained torque delivery under acceleration. Active Sound Enhancement and Active Noise Cancellation were also revised for the manual version, with intake and exhaust sounds amplified more strongly in Sport mode. An unnecessary step, we conclude.

Beyond the transmission, Nissan focused on repeatable track capability. The 2027 Z NISMO now uses two-piece front brake rotors derived from the Nissan GT-R. The iron-and-aluminum construction improves cooling while reducing overall mass. Nissan says the new front rotors reduce front unsprung weight by 19 lbs and help lower brake pad temperatures during lapping sessions.

That weight reduction led to further chassis work. Nissan retuned the NISMO suspension to account for the lighter front-end. The steering rack was also revised, with internal friction reduced by 20%, a change the company says results in a smoother cornering feel and fewer corrective inputs.

The rest of the Z range also received attention, but the Z NISMO is a rare treat for drivers not afraid to work for speed. And with proper hand-eye-heel-toe-left-leg coordination, the 6-speed manual Nissan Z NISMO can be nothing short of an extremely rewarding sports car around a track. And a fast one at that.

The 9-speed automatic 2026 Z NISMO is priced from $78,857 with fees. Expect the 2027 6M NISMO’s price to be identical to the 2027 9A NISMO.