- Nissan has unveiled the new Z Kaze concept in Phoenix, Arizona.
- One-off model sports a t-top, carbon fiber, and revamped interior.
- Sports car has an upgraded powertrain and revised suspension.
ZCON bills itself as the “international Z car convention,” so it’s a fitting place for Nissan to unveil the Z Kaze concept. The one-off model looks worthy of the SEMA Show and celebrates “nostalgia, heritage, and driving enjoyment.”
Named after the Japanese word for wind, the Kaze pays tribute to the past by incorporating a custom T-top. It consists of two removable glass panels as well as a central support beam. Designers put a lot of thought into the styling as it appears to be OEM quality.
More: Every 2027 Nissan Z Costs More, But The Nismo’s New Manual Is Free
The upgrades extend beyond a fun roof setup as the Pacific Teal sports car embraces the ’90s tuning scene. The results are a little mixed, but the concept features a ventilated carbon fiber hood, extended carbon fiber fender flares, and an aerodynamic body kit. The latter is made from, you guessed it, carbon fiber and includes a front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser, and a pronounced spoiler.
As a special touch, the car rides on classic 18-inch Nismo LMGT2 forged wheels, which were “painstakingly restored and rebuilt for the concept.” They’re 10 inches wide in front and 11 inches wide out back.
The interior largely carries over, but the model has been outfitted with custom white leather upholstery. It contrasts with black accents as well as carbon fiber trim on the center console and dashboard. Getting back to the seats, they have headrests with integrated Bose speakers so drivers can rock out with the roof off.
Nissan was coy on performance specifications, but confirmed the concept has a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6, upgraded with GReddy components. Highlights include an air-to-air intercooler kit, an Airinx air filter kit, and a Supreme SP exhaust. On top of that, the suspension has been “thoroughly upgraded” with Nismo components.
While the automaker didn’t talk numbers, the standard Z produces 400 hp (298 kW / 406 PS) and 350 lb-ft (474 Nm) of torque. The Nismo variant goes a step further with 420 hp (313 kW / 426 PS) and 384 lb-ft (520 Nm).
Nissan Americas chief product and planning officer Ponz Pandikuthira said: “The Z Kaze concept celebrates some of Nissan’s most iconic open top sports cars, while recognizing the ’90s tuning culture that helped put Nissan and Nismo on the map.” He added, “This passion project combines Nissan’s engineering excellence, creativity, and celebration of the brand’s heritage.”
Following its debut at ZCON, the concept will be showcased at the Japanese Classic Car Show on October 3.
