Seven years after the debut of the 350Z, the Z-car is thoroughly re-worked both inside and out for 2009. We're perhaps excited most by the mechanical change implicated by its nomenclature - lurking underhood is the 3.7-liter VQ37VHR V-6 that also powers the Infiniti G37. Nissan's not released specs on what the motor produces in Z-tune, but it manages to pump out 330 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque in the G37 - 24 ponies more than the 350Z's 3.5-liter V-6.
For those who don't climb underhood or stomp on the throttle, the most visible change will likely be the Z's new curves. Sure, it still carries the 350Z's general shape, but the car's form is considerably different. From what we can tell, the 370Z's proportions and taut body lines make the car look lighter and more akin to the original 240Z.
We hope, however, the 370Z's interior isn't a step back in time, but a step forward inline with the new 3.7-liter engine. We can't judge material feel and quality until we actually lay our hands on the car, but the interior rendering certainly looks attractive, what with leather-clad sport seats and matching suede door inserts. Though there's quite a few parts copped from the Nissan corporate parts bin, we're glad to see the nav system interface from the G37 (and hopefully its intuitive iPod interface) take its place in the Z.
We'll know more about the car's specifications, looks, and feel once Nissan officially unveils it at the 2009 Los Angeles auto show in November - but if you'd like to take a crack at "driving" the car, pick up a copy of "Need For Speed: Undercover."
Stay tuned to Automobile Magazine for all the latest news surrounding the 370Z and the 2009 Los Angeles auto show.