The Nissan Z Is Flourishing Due to an Unexpected Champion: Your Parents

      Alex Bellus Photography

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      You can give credit to your parents and their peers for the current attention, resources, and investment being directed towards the Z at Nissan.

      On Wednesday at the 2026 New York auto show, Ponz Pandikuthira, Senior Vice President and Chief Planning Officer for Nissan North America, exclusively shared with The Drive that, “One fascinating aspect about the current buyers of the Z is that many have desired this car since their teenage years or in their 20s, but could never afford it. Over time, the car somewhat lost its appeal, and enthusiasm waned. However, they are excited about this new version. As a result, we are seeing many older buyers who are purchasing this car as a trophy or retirement vehicle. The performance variant of the Z is selling extremely well, with a specific niche market interested in track use opting for the Nismo model.”

      “We maintain a steady sales rhythm for this car and are appealing to the right demographic. The 22-year-olds seeking a car are typically going for more affordable options that they can modify. Thus, we’ll support that lifecycle through animation,” Pandikuthira stated.

      What does that imply? Nissan is poised to fully embrace this approach.

      “It will be based on heritage,” Pandikuthira emphasized, adding that Nissan plans to “return to the authenticity of the Z’s past. We will create special editions that connect with that heritage while sustaining the animated cycle. Nissan intends to continually engage with it, rather than just building it and moving on. Expect to see a lot of that animation through special variants.”

      The 2027 Nissan Z will feature a slight refresh, including an updated front bumper and a manual transmission option for the Nismo model. However, obtaining the Z will become more challenging in 2027 as the manufacturer shifts to a build-to-order approach for the sports car. Pandikuthira confirmed this change, stating, “These are individuals who have longed for the car, and they’re saying, I love that maroon color. I want it in British racing green. I want tan camel interior seats. I prefer the manual transmission. So let them customize it. They are willing to wait because these buyers aren’t using this car as a daily driver. They are ready to wait 3 to 6 months for the build and delivery.”

      What’s next for the Z? According to Pandikuthira, those special “animations” will be unveiled over the next three years. “Then we’ll actively discuss what the next generation will entail, ensuring it aligns with the design of the next-generation GT-R. It needs to occupy a space just below where a GT-R would fit,” Pandikuthira explained.

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