2013 Nissan 370Z review

The 2013 Nissan 370Z boasts an updated look, a standard 3.7-liter V6 engine making 332 BHP, and a

reputation for remaining modern and sporty. Drivers can choose between a 6 speed manual transmission or a shiftable 7 speed automatic. The base 2013 Nissan 370Z starts at $33,000, meaning it's a bit more expensive than it used to be, but the 2+0 configuration remains unique for the price.

The car once called the Datsun Fairlady in Japan has seen more than a few changes over the years since its advent in 1970. None of those changes was more iconic than giving the Fairlady the "Z" badge for its importation into the United States. Whether a Datsun or a Nissan, the Z series cars, the 240, 260, 280, 300, 350, and now the 370Z, have kept changing with the times.

EXPLORE NEW & USED NISSAN Z SERIES LISTINGS

The Nissan 370Z has been freshened for 2013. The front fascia has been redesigned to incorporate vertical LED daytime running lights. A red reflective piece has replaced a black non-transparent or reflective piece on the rear. Rounding out the cosmetic changes are new shades of red or blue, and new wheel choices.
The standard 370Z features a 3.7L dual overhead cam V6 engine producing 332 BHP and 270 ft.-lbs. of torque laid down via the real wheels through either a 6 speed manual transmission or a shiftable 7 speed automatic.

The 6-speed manual can include an optional racing inspired synchronized downshift rev matching system. This system enables drivers of every experience level to not mismanage rapid downshifts by electronically "blipping" the throttle to match the shift point required, reducing shock on the clutch and strain upon the transmission. While a great boon to drivers who may have never really shifted on their own, or who haven't done so in perhaps decades, some drivers won't want to use it daily, so it can be turned off.

The 370Z's 7-speed automatic performs a very similar feat of engineering with its Downshift Rev Matching and Adaptive Shift Control. These technologies are designed to offer quick shifts that mimic a manual, but which can also be utilized through paddle shifters mounted on the steering column. The technical magic of the automatic not only keeps the performance on par with the manual, it shifts more efficiently around town too, returning one more mile per gallon on the city cycle, 17 to 16. In either configuration the 370Z is rated 26 mpg on the highway

In the earlier iterations of this car we'd be finished now. When you bought a 280Z, no matter how it was equipped it was always one name covering the variants. Now there are four Z flavors, the Coupe, rounded out with the Coupe Touring and NISMO Z, and the Z Roadster, a convertible sharing the same power train as described before.

It's the limited edition NISMO Z that puts a little bit of hooliganism into the refined 370Z formula. The NISMO offers a horsepower bump to 350 BHP, gains a viscous limited slip differential, and features improved sport suspension and braking bits, as well as unique styling, paint, and wheels. The automatic is not available on the NISMO version, making the NISMO a $6,000 premium over the manual Touring Coupe.

With base prices ranging from $33,000 to $43,000, the 370Z is a little more expensive than it used to be, but its 2+0 configuration remains unique at its price point.