Weren't Nissan considering using the GTR drivetrain package and put it in an Infiniti sedan.

I think you've misunderstood me a little Luw...

I'm not saying that the new Z ought to get the AWD system from the GT-R but what I am saying is that they could certainly achieve some synergies without all the GT-R's complexity and ultra-performance. These synergies comprise the use of the transaxle DCT gearbox in rear-drive config only without the centre diff, second propshaft and front differential. I think this would be a great opportunity for Nissan to make the Z an even better car, infused with GT-R DNA but without the out and out complexity and monster dynamics. Instead, it'll be a purists dream with perfect weight distribution and fine RWD dynamics in a simpler, cheaper format.

[Source: CarScoop]

I was expecting a new car, but this will be like a 911 style comprehensive facelift.

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I'm optimistic that we'll at least see some mechanical innovation and differentiation from the current 350Z though experience gained from the X-Trail and Murano II suggests that Nissan has a propensity for going with what works at the moment.

The saddest bit about this new generation is the fact that those hideous door handles remain it seems. F*&k - I hate those things.

I have to give Nissan some credit here. In a world where Toyota won't build a sports car under their own brand, while taking forever to release the Lexus supercar, Nissan builds not one but 2 sports cars. One a serious world-beater and the other an relatively affordable sports car for the masses. Toyota and Mitsubishi should be ashamed of themselves for letting Honda (S2000) and Nissan runaway with this market. Hell even Mazda has something for the serious sports car lover, the RX-8. Toyota: richest and the most boring.


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I'm loving it already. Would absolutely love to own one!

Great proportions. Side DLO shape is quite individual and shallow without compromising visibility a la AM Vantage.

Front detailing looks promising. And, as for the drive, I've no doubt that it's a corker!

Only one criticism: I hate those vertically oriented door handles.

These are the first spy pictures of the Nissan 370Z, due to be unveiled next month at the Los Angeles motor show.

The successor to the 350Z was caught testing by our spies in Germany, and shows the complete look of the new car thanks to the low levels of disguise. The Nissan 370Z is shorter and wider than the 350Z it replaces, but maintains the coupe’s distinctive styling and vertical door handles, although they’re much smaller.

The car gets a version on Nissan’s 3.7-litre V6, as used in the Infiniti’s European models.

That means the 370Z will have at least 326bhp, a substantial improvement over the 309bhp of the 350Z.

The 370Z’s shorter and broader stance has created a more aggressive look. It keeps the split twin exhaust but looks to have more pronounced rear haunches, emphasising its increased power and agility.

The 370Z will get a significantly improved interior, bringing it more into line with the sector and its competitors. A diesel version is expected later in the cars lifecycle to challenge Audi’s sporty TT oil-burner.

Customers will get the choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed automatic with paddle-shift controls when the 370Z goes on sale in the UK in the first half of 2009.

Autocar - Spied: Nissan 370Z

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Interior scooped:







Here's an automated transmission with paddle shift of some sorts, much better quality interior and push-button engine start.