2018 Nissan 370Z review

What We Like

Steering and handling: Sometimes newer isn’t better, and one area where the Z’s older platform works to its advantage is in its steering feel. The Z uses hydraulic power steering assist, which results in excellent steering feel and feedback compared to the electrical assist used on many modern cars. Enthusiasts will love the sharp and accurate control, and the feedback through the steering wheel lets the driver know when the front tires are at their limit. Couple that with a willing suspension setup, and the Z is definitely a fun car on a twisting road.

Power delivery: The V6 engine under the hood has no shortage of horsepower and puts it to good use getting this two-seat sports car moving quickly. There’s also good low-end torque, which makes it easy to drive in traffic, even if you choose the manual transmission.

Rev-matching downshifts: The Z was one of the first cars to introduce automatic rev matching on a manual transmission, and we think it’s a noteworthy feature. When you push in the clutch and engage a lower gear, the engine’s computer automatically “blips” the throttle, increasing revs to exactly where they need to be for that lower gear to engage smoothly.

What Needs Improvement

Old bones: We’re not picking on the Z, but there’s no ignoring the fact that Nissan didn’t update this car very much. The stiff ride quality, noisy interior, coarse sounding engine, and lack of visibility all combine to make this 2018 car feel older than it really is. On top of that, it’s lacking modern technologies such as smartphone integration and driver assistance. Its competitors all feel far more modern and accommodating.