At a time when sports cars are disappearing and manual gearboxes are becoming increasingly rare, Nissan has made a move that enthusiasts have been asking for. The 2027 Nissan Z NISMO is finally available with a six-speed manual transmission, proving that there is still room for driver-focused performance in an industry rapidly shifting toward automation and electrification.
With the legendary GT-R now retired and the sports car segment shrinking every year, the Z has become Nissan’s sole performance icon. Instead of following the trend of removing manual gearboxes, Nissan has chosen to double down on driving engagement.
A Manual Transmission Finally Arrives for the Z NISMO
For years, the Z NISMO was available only with a nine-speed automatic transmission, leaving many purists disappointed. Nissan has now addressed those concerns by introducing a six-speed manual option for its most track-focused Z.
This isn’t simply a gearbox borrowed from another variant. Nissan engineers made several mechanical changes to ensure the manual transmission complements the NISMO’s higher-performance character. The company has also equipped the manual-equipped model with upgraded front brakes to match its increased driver involvement and track capabilities.
The result is a sports coupe designed not just to deliver speed, but to create a more rewarding driving experience behind the wheel.
Updated Pricing Across the 2027 Nissan Z Lineup
Alongside the manual transmission announcement, Nissan has confirmed pricing for the complete 2027 Z family.
Every variant now carries a modest price increase of $1,460 over the previous model year. However, Nissan continues its customer-friendly approach by charging the same price for both the manual and automatic transmissions.
The entry-level Z Sport now starts at $45,725, while the better-equipped Z Performance is priced from $55,725.
The flagship Z NISMO, now available with either transmission, starts at $68,505.
This pricing strategy gives buyers the freedom to choose their preferred driving experience without paying a premium simply for selecting three pedals.
Performance Remains the Heart of the Z
Both the Z Sport and Z Performance are powered by Nissan’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 400 horsepower.
The Z Performance builds on the standard model with several hardware upgrades, including forged 19-inch RAYS alloy wheels, larger brakes, revised suspension dampers, and a limited-slip rear differential. These enhancements improve handling and stability without compromising everyday usability.
The Z NISMO raises the performance bar even further. Its upgraded version of the same twin-turbo V6 develops 420 horsepower, making it the most capable production Z currently available.
Combined with the newly introduced manual gearbox, the NISMO now offers an experience that many enthusiasts believed had become nearly impossible to find in today’s market.
Manual Sports Cars Are Becoming Rare
Nissan’s decision comes as the list of affordable manual sports cars continues to shrink.
The retirement of the Nissan GT-R, along with the announced end of production for the Toyota Supra and BMW Z4, has significantly reduced the number of enthusiast-focused coupes available worldwide.
Among the remaining rear-wheel-drive performance cars offering manual transmissions, buyers now have very few choices. The BMW M2 remains one of the closest rivals, starting around $69,550, while the Ford Mustang GT continues to offer a V8-powered manual alternative from $48,795.
As manufacturers increasingly prioritise electric vehicles and automatic transmissions, models like the Nissan Z are becoming increasingly significant for enthusiasts who still value mechanical engagement.
A Welcome Move for Driving Enthusiasts
The 2027 Nissan Z may not represent a radical redesign, but its biggest update is arguably the one enthusiasts care about most.
Rather than chasing technology for its own sake, Nissan has focused on preserving one of the purest elements of performance driving. By giving buyers the option of a six-speed manual in its flagship Z NISMO without adding a price premium, the company reinforces its commitment to enthusiasts at a time when many competitors are moving in the opposite direction.
With the GT-R now part of Nissan’s history, the Z carries the responsibility of keeping the brand’s performance heritage alive. Judging by this latest update, Nissan intends to keep that legacy firmly in the hands of drivers who still enjoy shifting their own gears.
