Nissan used the occasion of the ZCON 2026 gathering in Phoenix, Arizona this week to unveil a new concept. The Z Kaze, a new interpretation of the current Nissan Z, gets a removable T-top as well as several elements inspired by 1990s modified car culture.
The name Kaze meaning “wind” in Japanese refers here to the joy of open-air driving, a feature that marked several generations of Nissan's sports car. For the time being, the automaker presents its new concept vehicle as a design exercise and is not saying if it could lead to a production version.
A T-top and a retro look
The most significant transformation obviously involves the roof. Nissan designed a custom T-top that allows two panels to be removed while retaining a central section. This configuration recalls certain former Zs offered with a more open body style.
The Pacific Teal paintwork also contributes to the 1990s vibe. So do the vented hood, fender flares and aerodynamic kit, all of carbon-fibre.
Nissan also restored a set of 18-inch forged Nismo LMGT2 wheels, which are 10 inches wide at the front and 11 inches at the rear. These wheels have been out of production for several years but they continue to hold a special place in the world of modified Japanese cars.
The cabin receives white leather-trimmed seats as well as various carbon-fibre trim pieces. Bose Personal Plus speakers are integrated into the headrests to bring the sound closer to the occupants when the roof panels are removed.
Nismo and GReddy components
Under the skin, the concept retains the Nissan Z's twin-turbo 3.0L V6. However, the manufacturer is announcing no figures regarding power or torque.
The powertrain receives several parts from tuner GReddy, notably a Supreme SP exhaust, front-mounted air-to-air intercooler and Airinx air filters. The suspension was also modified using Nismo components.
"The Z Kaze concept celebrates some of Nissan's most iconic open-top sports cars, while paying homage to 1990s tuning culture," said Ponz Pandikuthira, senior VP responsible for product and planning at Nissan Americas.
Following its presentation at ZCON, the Nissan Z Kaze eill make its way to the Japanese Classic Car Show on October 3. Nissan has announced no plans to market the concept.