2007 Nissan 350Z

(from Nissan Press Release)  Nissan North America, Inc. today announced the availability and pricing of the revised 2007 Nissan 350Z and Nissan 350Z Roadster. Both feature a number of enhancements – highlighted by a new, more powerful, next-generation 3.5-liter V6 engine and a new front end appearance. In addition, 350Z Coupe Touring and Grand Touring models receive standard Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System with steering wheel-mounted controls.

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2007 Nissan 350Z increases only $250 from 2006 on all models except the 350Z Roadster Enthusiast model, which increases $500 and includes front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags that are now standard on all Z Roadsters. The 2007 350Z went on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide on January 5, 2007.

“The Nissan Z has built a tradition of exciting performance and outstanding value for 37 years now,” said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “This newest iteration, with its more powerful VQ-series V6, epitomizes the innovation and continuous improvement that has defined the Z’s success since its introduction in 1970.”

The new engine, which features nearly 80% redesigned major parts (except bolt, O-rings and clips), is rated at 306 horsepower* and 268 lb-ft of torque with both the close-ratio 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmissions.

The engine is part of Nissan’s VQ-series that has been on Ward’s “10 Best Engines” list for 13 consecutive years. The Z’s hood has been redesigned to accommodate the new dual intake system and to reflect the 2007 models’ more aggressive and sporty personality. Other refinements for 2007 include three new exterior colors – Solar Orange, San Marino Blue and Carbon Silver – and Roadster models receive a new optional gray convertible top (replaces the previous blue convertible top; a black top remains as standard).

All 350Zs continue to offer standard Nissan Advance Air Bag System with dual-stage front supplemental air bags, Zone Body construction with front and rear crushable zones and Active Head Restraints (except with Burnt Orange net seats). The Z has also earned NHTSA’s 5-star rating for side-impact crash test safety**.

Pricing and Model Availability

For 2007, the Nissan 350Z Coupe is available in four models – 350Z 6MT, 350Z Enthusiast, 350Z Touring and 350Z Grand Touring.

Starting MSRP for the 350Z Coupe with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission is $27,900. The Enthusiast Coupe adds cruise control, Traction Control System (TCS), Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD), aluminum pedals and more, and is available in a 6-speed manual configuration starting at $29,600 or in a 5-speed automatic configuration starting at $30,600.

The 2007 Nissan 350Z Coupe Touring model is available with a 6-speed manual starting at $32,700 and with a 5-speed automatic configuration starting at $33,200. Touring models add a 7-speaker Boseâ audio system, heated power leather seats and, with manual transmission, standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).

Nissan 350Z Coupe Grand Touring models start at $36,100 for the 6-speed manual configuration and $37,100 for the 5-speed automatic configuration, and add super-lightweight forged-alloy wheels, front and rear spoilers, Brembo brakes and VDC for both the manual and automatic transmissions.

For 2007, the 350Z Roadster is offered in three models – Enthusiast, Touring and Grand Touring.

The 2007 Nissan 350Z Roadster Enthusiast with a 6-speed manual configuration starts at $35,550, while the 5-speed automatic configuration starts at $36,550. Both feature power seats, a glass rear window with rear defroster and a rear wind deflector.

The 350Z Roadster Touring trim adds a 7-speaker Boseâ audio system and heated leather seats and starts at $37,900 for the 6-speed manual configuration and $38,900 for the 5-speed automatic configuration.

The 350Z Roadster Grand Touring model adds Brembo brakes and standard VDC for both the 6-speed manual configuration, which starts at $40,250, and the 5-speed automatic configuration, which starts at $41,250.

“The enhancements to the legendary Z for 2007 are a case of taking a great car and great value and upping the standard considerably,” said Bosley. “Its new engine makes a dramatic difference, while the new hood adds a fresh appearance while keeping all the ‘Z-ness” that legions of dedicated Z buyers have come to love.”