Automakers usually offer a special-edition model when a vehicle nears the end of its life cycle, but with Nissan's 350Z having just undergone a mid-life facelift, including an engine upgrade, the powers that be thought it time that a NISMO-enhanced version be put on sale, in the US anyway. The limited-edition model was displayed at the New York Auto Show. We were there to witness the unveiling.

The 350Z NISMO is significantly more than a fresh new colour on the options list or some decals applied to the bodywork; the new car has been extensively reworked using modifications from Nissan's Japanese tuning partner and now comes with added performance and increased visual appeal.

Aesthetically, the NISMO special-edition features visual enhancements to the front and rear and the bonnet, but all the added elements also combine to create a more driver-focussed vehicle. At the front, a spoiler lip riding beneath the revised bumper helps to create downforce and channel air around and over the body. More pronounced side sills and new wheels differentiate the car from other 350Zs, but also decrease unsprung weight for improved handling.

The rear of the car is where most of the changes that may have been overlooked from the front become evident. A massive rear diffuser is housed within an entirely new rear bumper, which has already been honed through NISMO's success in the Japanese Super GT series. Together with the enormous rear wing, the rear-end bears a strong resemblance to the Super GT race car.

A revised suspension featuring Yamaha shocks developed exclusively for the NISMO Z reduces the car's ride height by 12.7mm and is said to lessen vibration through the chassis.

The engine however, has not seen any major revisions. Other than a slight bump up in power (the new car creates an additional 5bhp due to a new exhaust) the 3.5-litre six cylinder powerplant remains identical to that found in standard 350Zs.

It is still unclear whether Europe will be added to the shortlist of markets the car will be exported to, but we're keeping our fingers crossed and hoping it'll make it onto UK roads. In the meantime, we'll be amongst the first to drive the new and improved Nissan 350Z, so watch out for the story on the Nissan Road Tests page next month (May), along with a drive in the mad-cap 350Z GT-S supercharged prototype.

Eric Gallina - 8 Apr 2007