First Drive Review
The shift performance and responsiveness of automatic transmissions have gotten pretty good in recent years. We still prefer manuals, of course, but a good set of paddle shifters and a quick-shifting sport mode—and, preferably, dual clutches instead of a torque converter—can occasionally allow one to weave a thrilling tale. (We can’t believe we just wrote that, either.)
The reality is that companies must now fit automatic transmissions to their sports cars, even track-oriented versions, if they hope to achieve more than modest sales. Such is the case with Nissan’s new 2015 370Z NISMO, which we just drove for the first time with its newly available seven-speed automatic transmission. Along with an optional navigation system and other nods to cushification, the automatic was added to the NISMO model for 2015 to broaden its appeal beyond the hard-core weekend racers previously targeted by Nissan. The transmission itself is the same one offered on non-NISMO 370Z models, although the rear differential’s final-drive ratio was shortened for quicker off-the-line punch. It has two operating modes, Drive and Manual, with manual gear selection performed via a separate shifter gate or long, arcing shift paddles fixed to the steering column.
Before we go on, we should note that, back in 2009, we tested a 370Z automatic and we didn’t hate it, calling its manual shifts “lightning-quick” and recording an even quicker zero-to-60 time than we did with the manual. But “lightning-quick” by 2009 standards is less so next to today’s intuitive and instantly responsive dual-clutchers. While flogging the NISMO-matic Z over some delightful two-lane back roads in Tennessee, we found that, despite its ability to rev-match downshifts, the transmission behaves rather like an old-school automatic, with each pause between gears sapping a bit of joy from the driving experience, which is otherwise pretty damn good, with talkative steering and copious grip.
Here’s the good news: There’s a cure available in the form of the Z’s good old six-speed manual transmission. With its smooth operation, well-defined gates, short throws, and hero-making SyncroRev rev-matching technology (which, of course, is defeatable for actual heroes), the manual is easily the better match for the NISMO’s better-breathing 3.7-liter V-6, which summons the same 350 horses and 276 lb-ft of torque it has offered since the package first appeared in 2009.
Aside from the powertrain, there’s much to like about the 2015 NISMO Z. We heaped praise upon its refreshed styling when Nissan first showed the car back in May, and we are happy to say that it looks even better in person, with our favorite element being the toned-down rear spoiler that could have been lifted from a vintage Porsche. The sense of occasion continues inside, with grippy new red-and-black faux-suede/leather seats and, if you’re the spendy type, a new Tech package with navigation, a backup camera, Bose audio, Homelink, and other upgrades that will do absolutely nothing to shave seconds off of your lap times but will certainly make the car a more livable daily driver.
Although most of these changes, especially the addition of the automatic, dilute the NISMO’s original track-star purpose, it’s good to know that the 370Z can still be rewarding, so long as you stick with the stick.
