5 Things Worth Appreciating in the New Nissan Z

Arabian Automobiles Nissan, the official partner of 2022 Dubai Run, leads the world's largest fun run with the recently launched Nissan Z
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Having recently driven the new Nissan Z in Dubai and fallen in love with its exhilarating performance, I have always been the motoring enthusiast captivated by this iconic sports car.

Nissan Z

Launched as the 2023 model and continuing into 2025 with minimal updates, the Nissan Z brings a potent mix of power, style, and affordability to the UAE’s vibrant streets. With its twin-turbo V6 engine, retro-inspired design, and driver-focused dynamics, the Z is perfectly suited for Dubai’s blend of urban energy and open highways.

In my opinion, here are five standout aspects that make the new Nissan Z worth celebrating. These elements highlight why this car resonates with UAE drivers seeking thrill and value.

1. Thrilling Twin-Turbo V6 Engine

The Nissan Z’s 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine is a powerhouse, delivering 400 horsepower and 475 Nm of torque.

Adapted from Infiniti’s Q50 and Q60 Red Sport models, it offers a 50 kW leap over the 370Z’s naturally aspirated V6, making it ideal for Dubai’s fast-paced roads like Sheikh Zayed Road.

With torque kicking in at 1,600 rpm, the Z surges effortlessly, whether accelerating from a standstill at a Dubai Marina traffic light or cruising toward Jumeirah.

The Z hits 0-100 km/h in approximately 4.7 seconds with the six-speed manual transmission, perfect for quick sprints across Dubai’s highways. Its top speed of 250-266 km/h ensures it can stretch its legs on routes outside the city.

The manual gearbox, with a no-lift shift feature, makes upshifts seamless, adding to the fun of navigating Dubai’s dynamic driving conditions. While fuel economy averages 7-8 km/L in the city and 11 km/L on highways—not uncommon for a sports car—it’s a reasonable trade-off for the thrill, especially with Dubai’s current fuel price of AED 2.57 per liter.

This engine’s responsiveness and character make every drive, from Deira to Downtown, feel electrifying.

2. Retro-Modern Styling

The Nissan Z’s design is a stunning blend of nostalgia and modernity, turning heads across Dubai’s glittering cityscape. Its long hood, short deck, and fastback shape echo the 240Z, with taillights inspired by the 300ZX and a grille that nods to its heritage.

Vibrant colors like Ikazuchi Yellow or Passion Red pop under Dubai’s neon lights, and fender-mounted Z badges add a touch of exclusivity that suits the city’s flair.

At 4.38 meters long with a 2.55-meter wheelbase, the Z’s compact size navigates busy streets with ease.

The Performance trim’s 19-inch RAYS forged wheels and subtle aero enhancements, like a front spoiler, enhance its aggressive stance, perfect for cruising.

LED headlights and taillights ensure visibility during Dubai’s occasional sandstorms or evening drives. This design not only celebrates the Z’s legacy but also makes it a standout in Dubai’s luxury-car-heavy streets, earning nods from fellow enthusiasts at car meets in Al Quoz.

3. Dynamic Handling

The Z’s driving dynamics are a highlight, offering a balance of agility and excitement that suits Dubai’s mix of urban congestion and open roads. Built on a stiffer platform than the 370Z, with 11% improved torsional rigidity and updated monotube shocks, it handles corners with confidence, whether tackling roundabouts or sweeping bends.

The rear-wheel-drive setup and electric power steering deliver precise, communicative feedback, making it easy to thread through Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road traffic.

Braking is robust, with 356 mm front and 351 mm rear vented discs stopping the car from 112-0 km/h in about 50 meters, ideal for sudden stops in Dubai’s unpredictable traffic.

The SynchroRev Match system simplifies heel-toe downshifts, enhancing the manual driving experience for both novices and pros. With 0.93 g of cornering grip, the Z feels planted yet playful, rewarding drivers who push it on open stretches.

Its slightly firm ride and road noise add to the raw, authentic sports car vibe, perfect for Dubai’s enthusiast culture.

4. Modern Interior with Dubai-Friendly Tech

The Z’s interior blends classic sports car vibes with tech that suits Dubai’s tech-savvy drivers. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster switches between Normal and Sport modes, clearly displaying speed in km/h and other vitals, crucial for navigating Dubai’s speed cameras.

Leather options in red or blue elevate the cabin’s feel, though some plastics reflect its value-oriented price. A telescoping steering wheel ensures comfort for long drives to Al Ain or Fujairah.

The 9-inch touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, syncing seamlessly with smartphones for navigation through Dubai’s sprawling roads.

Physical climate and audio controls minimize distractions, a boon in heavy JLT traffic. Analog gauges for turbo boost and oil pressure nod to the Z’s heritage, resonating with UAE enthusiasts who value tradition.

The hatchback’s 200-liter trunk and behind-seat storage handle shopping bags from Dubai Mall or gear for a weekend trip. This cockpit balances practicality and excitement, ideal for Dubai’s lifestyle.

5. Exceptional Value in the UAE Market

In Dubai’s competitive car market, the Nissan Z offers outstanding value, starting at approximately AED 215,900 for the base model and reaching AED 221,900 for the Performance trim.

For AED 239,900, you get 400 hp, a manual option, and rear-wheel drive, making the Z a steal compared to pricier sports cars flooding Dubai’s roads.

Nissan’s 5-year/100,000 km warranty and extensive UAE service network, including showrooms in Deira and Al Quoz, ensure peace of mind.

The Z’s reliability, backed by Nissan’s 2025 JD Power award for initial quality, makes it a practical choice for Dubai’s harsh climate. For enthusiasts who want performance without the price tag of a Ferrari or Porsche, the Z delivers unmatched bang for the buck.
Juan Manuel
the authorJuan Manuel
Track racing, competing, it's in my blood. It's part of me, it's part of my life; I have been doing it all my life and it stands out above everything else.