420 hp and a Clutch Pedal: The 2027 Nissan Z NISMO Arrives This Summer in Ontario

420 hp and a Clutch Pedal: The 2027 Nissan Z NISMO Arrives This Summer in Ontario

Nissan has just pulled the wraps off the refreshed 2027 Z, and the biggest news is what enthusiasts have been asking for since the current generation launched: a six-speed manual transmission for the NISMO. The 2027 lineup gets a comprehensive refresh across all three trims - Sport, Performance, and NISMO - with updated styling, handling improvements, and new tech features. Here's what Nissan has confirmed so far.

The Manual Returns to NISMO

The NISMO trim offers a six-speed manual transmission. Nissan pairs it with an EXEDY high-performance clutch and a carbon fibre composite drive shaft (manual models only; automatics get a steel shaft). The manual NISMO also gets SynchroRev Match, which automatically blips the throttle on downshifts for smoother gear changes.

If you prefer an automatic, the NISMO comes standard with a NISMO-tuned 9-speed automatic with paddle shifters and launch control. Both transmissions are standard on NISMO - no upcharge for the manual.

Power and Performance by Trim

All three trims use the VR30DDTT 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo, but output varies:

Trim

Horsepower

Torque

Sport

400 hp @ 6,400 rpm

350 lb-ft @ 1,600 - 5,600 rpm

Performance

400 hp @ 6,400 rpm

350 lb-ft @ 1,600 - 5,600 rpm

NISMO

420 hp @ 6,400 rpm

384 lb-ft @ 2,000 - 5,200 rpm

The NISMO's extra 20 hp and 350 lb-ft come from NISMO-specific tuning and a NISMO-enhanced engine oil cooler. All trims run rear-wheel drive with a mid-mounted engine layout.

Sport and Performance trims offer a 6-speed manual as standard with an optional 9-speed automatic. NISMO includes both the 6-speed manual and NISMO-tuned 9-speed automatic as standard equipment.

What's New for 2027


Beyond the manual NISMO, the refresh brings design updates across the lineup. The NISMO gets exclusive front and rear fascias, a three-piece rear spoiler, NISMO-specific side sills, and a black katana blade styling element. Black mirrors with a red NISMO stripe replace the body-coloured units from Performance.

Inside, NISMO buyers get red anodized engine start and Drive Mode buttons. Performance and NISMO trims add a wireless device charger (Qi2 standard). All trims keep the Nissan Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, USB charging ports (one USB-A, one USB-C), and HomeLink Universal Transceiver (Performance and NISMO).

Handling Hardware

The Performance and NISMO trims come standard with a mechanical clutch-type limited-slip differential and SynchroRev Match (manual only). Launch control is standard on Performance trim and NISMO. All trims include Hill Start Assist and front and rear parking sensors.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Nissan includes Intelligent Cruise Control and a RearView Monitor across the lineup. All trims also get front and rear parking sensors as standard equipment.

What We're Still Waiting to Learn

Nissan has not yet released Canadian pricing, fuel economy ratings, or exact on-sale dates for the 2027 Z. We also don't have confirmed colour options or detailed option packages. As more information becomes available, we'll update our coverage.

The Bottom Line

The 2027 Nissan Z refresh addresses one of the biggest requests from driving enthusiasts - a manual transmission for the NISMO - while updating the entire lineup with fresh styling and new tech. If you've been waiting for a manual NISMO or considering the Performance trim, the 2027 updates make this the strongest Z lineup since the current generation launched.

Want to stay updated on 2027 Z availability and ordering? Contact Waterloo Nissan in Waterloo, ON. Our team can walk you through the trim differences, answer questions about the manual vs. automatic, and let you know as soon as we have Canadian pricing and delivery timelines.

Contact us button-icon

Other Articles That May Interest You

2026 Nissan Kicks: The Design, Cargo, and Tech That Set It Apart in Ontario
plus
Waterloo Nissan

2026 Nissan Kicks: The Design, Cargo, and Tech That Set It Apart in Ontario

The 2026 Nissan Kicks brings a fresh take on the subcompact crossover segment with design cues borrowed from sneaker culture and football helmets. Starting at $27,198, this practical daily driver offers five trims across FWD and AWD configurations, delivering style and function for different budgets and driving needs. This overview covers the Kicks's standout features - from competitive cargo...

Read more link-icon
Six Trims, Two Power Levels, One Serious Tow Rating: The 2026 Nissan Armada Explained
plus
Waterloo Nissan

Six Trims, Two Power Levels, One Serious Tow Rating: The 2026 Nissan Armada Explained

The 2026 Nissan Armada is a full-size, three-row SUV built for families who need serious towing capacity, room for eight passengers, and the capability to handle Ontario winters and cottage-country roads. If you're shopping for a large SUV that can pull a boat or trailer while keeping everyone comfortable, here's what you need to know. What Body Style and Seating Does the Armada Offer? The...

Read more link-icon
Gas, PHEV, or Rock Creek? The 2026 Nissan Rogue Buyer's Guide for Ontario
plus
Waterloo Nissan

Gas, PHEV, or Rock Creek? The 2026 Nissan Rogue Buyer's Guide for Ontario

The 2026 Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV built for families who need space, efficiency, and modern tech without the premium price tag. This year brings a new plug-in hybrid option alongside the proven turbocharged gas engine, giving buyers more powertrain flexibility than ever. Who the 2026 Rogue Is For The Rogue fits buyers who want a practical, fuel-efficient SUV without sacrificing comfort or...

Read more link-icon