The new car strikes a handsome balance between the classic long-hood, short-deck look of the original 240Z, while maintaining the taut lines and intricate lighting of current Nissans. The new Z’s interior keeps a similar layout but gets a stronger, more modern look with taller central gauges and a large central information screen similar to those in other Nissan/Infiniti products. The name change hints at the reported 330bhp 3.7 litre V6 under the hood. The 370Z is also reportedly shorter, wider and lighter than the outgoing car, so the power increase will be put to good use thanks to the agile, all-new platform underneath. Based on the same platform as the G37, the 370Z will get the option of the same seven-speed automatic and a six-speed manual.Unlike the Infiniti, however, the new Nissan won't be a 2+2 coupe, but will stick with a two-seater layout.A diesel version – ready to rival the Audi TT TDI – could be on the cards later in the 370Z’s lifespan. Nissan is known to be working on an oil-burning V6. There will undoubtedly be a roadster model hot on the heels of the coupe; expect late in 2009. The 2009 370Z is scheduled to meet the public at the Los Angeles motorshow on the 19th November. It goes on sale early next year for an estimated £28,000.
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