Guys Literally Only Want One Thing—A Manual Transmission NISMO Z
Nissan may be cash-strapped and selling the office furniture to keep the lights on, but at least the company has recommitted to having a soul. The automaker is finally preparing to give purists what they’ve been begging for: a manual transmission in the NISMO Z.
Key Points
- Nissan confirms a manual transmission is coming to the Z NISMO, ending its run as an automatic-only model.
- The NISMO trim makes 420 hp and 384 lb-ft, with chassis and styling upgrades that make it the sharpest Z in the lineup.
- The stick-shift version is likely to arrive by 2026 or 2027, pairing top-tier performance with enthusiast-focused driver engagement.
Since its debut, the range-topping Zetto has inexplicably been sold exclusively with a nine-speed automatic, leaving the six-speed manual as an option only for lower trims. Well, that’s set to change, according to Nissan Americas chairman Christian Meunier, who confirmed on an Automotive News podcast that “we have a NISMO manual transmission coming.”
Meunier didn’t provide a timeline or additional details, but the news is a welcome sign of life from Nissan’s performance division. When the NISMO Z first launched, engineers argued that track-focused buyers preferred the quicker, more consistent automatic gearbox.
But not everyone is a track rat, and enthusiasts have continued to beat the drum for a stick-shift option in the most powerful Z to date.
The current NISMO Z uses the same twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 as the standard Z, but with some laptop magic that bumps output to 420 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque—an increase of 20 hp and 34 lb-ft. It also enjoys a limited-slip differential, stiffer suspension, larger brakes, and more aggressive bodywork.
Nissan hasn’t confirmed timing, but the move could align with either the 2026 or 2027 model year, depending on development progress.
The NISMO will likely use a version of the same FS6R31A six-speed offered in the standard Zetto—the basic internal design has survived through the 350 and 370Z generations—the CD009 version currently in production has numerous upgrades that should be able to handle the NISMO's additional power without breaking a sweat.
Some internet people claim to have pushed over 1,000 horses through the CD009 box in drift builds.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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Manual shifters rule!