As far as the new model's exterior and interior go, I'm inclined to agree with McNabb's 'enhanced' comment. It should be mentioned,
however, that Nissan has improved the Z's interiorinrecent years, with higher quality plastics and better fit and finish.It doesn't offer a premium experience yet, but at leastit's respectable. The 2006 model should enhance the recent improvements, butonly a full road test, coming in the near future, will confirm this.
To continue, the updates that constitute the revisioninclude new headlights with xenon low and high beams, LED tail lamp clusters and a new grille. The lightweight forged five-spoke 18- and 19-inch wheels first seen on the special 35th Anniversary Edition will also be made available as an option on Coupe models.
While visual changes may rate low on the Z's exterior and interior, there's more beneath the skin. As of 2006, all Zs featuring the 6-speed manual gearbox will have an output increase to 300-horsepower, while models equipped with the 5-speed automatic gearbox are rated at 287-horsepower. Commensurately the manual loses a little torque, from the previous car's (and automatic-equipped Z's) 274 lb-ft to 260.
Speed-sensitive power steering also makes its
debut on the newly shaped models for greater feel at high speeds and easier low-speed maneuverability.
Replacing the limited edition 35th Anniversary model will be a new Grand Touring Coupe model that will act as the range-topper. Standard to this car are 18- and 19-inch wheel and tire packages, Brembo brakes, front and rear spoilers, as well as Nissan's Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) stability control system.
Rounding out the additions are two new metallic paint colours and MP3 capability for the Bose CD stereo system.
In the end, it's difficult to understand why Nissan continues to gouge Canadian consumers with this car. In base trim a 2005 model will cost our friends to the south $26,800, while we are forced to pay $45,998. While we expect to pay a premium due to the need to crash test Canadian car's separately, as well as our devaluated loonie, but today's direct exchange rate equals $31,600 and change. Even factoring in our dollar's increased value in recent months, some extra equipment the base Canadian 350Z includes which the U.S. one doesn't, and any enhanced pandering Canadian retailers may offer over those in the States, the difference is outrageous.
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| As far as the new model's exterior and interior go, we're inclined toagree with McNabb's 'enhanced' comment. (Photo: Nissan Canada) |
To continue, the updates that constitute the revisioninclude new headlights with xenon low and high beams, LED tail lamp clusters and a new grille. The lightweight forged five-spoke 18- and 19-inch wheels first seen on the special 35th Anniversary Edition will also be made available as an option on Coupe models.
While visual changes may rate low on the Z's exterior and interior, there's more beneath the skin. As of 2006, all Zs featuring the 6-speed manual gearbox will have an output increase to 300-horsepower, while models equipped with the 5-speed automatic gearbox are rated at 287-horsepower. Commensurately the manual loses a little torque, from the previous car's (and automatic-equipped Z's) 274 lb-ft to 260.
Speed-sensitive power steering also makes its
 |
| As of 2006, all Zs featuring the 6-speed manual gearbox will have an output increase to 300-horsepower. (Photo: Nissan Canada) |
Replacing the limited edition 35th Anniversary model will be a new Grand Touring Coupe model that will act as the range-topper. Standard to this car are 18- and 19-inch wheel and tire packages, Brembo brakes, front and rear spoilers, as well as Nissan's Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) stability control system.
Rounding out the additions are two new metallic paint colours and MP3 capability for the Bose CD stereo system.
In the end, it's difficult to understand why Nissan continues to gouge Canadian consumers with this car. In base trim a 2005 model will cost our friends to the south $26,800, while we are forced to pay $45,998. While we expect to pay a premium due to the need to crash test Canadian car's separately, as well as our devaluated loonie, but today's direct exchange rate equals $31,600 and change. Even factoring in our dollar's increased value in recent months, some extra equipment the base Canadian 350Z includes which the U.S. one doesn't, and any enhanced pandering Canadian retailers may offer over those in the States, the difference is outrageous.