The Nissan Z is getting a major update that will excite purists. The high performance Nismo version will soon be offered with a six speed manual gearbox, ending its run as an automatic only model.
The announcement came during a podcast interview with Automotive News, where Nissan Americas Chairman Christian Meunier confirmed the news. “We have a Nismo manual transmission coming,” he said, without going into detail about tuning or whether the stick shift variant will receive its own unique upgrades.
For enthusiasts, this is a big win. When the Nismo launched in 2024, it added a limited slip differential, stronger brakes, stiffer suspension, and aggressive aerodynamics. Power from the twin turbocharged 3.0 litre V6 climbed to 420 horsepower and 384 pound feet of torque. It was all tied to a nine speed automatic, which left fans frustrated.
Adding a manual option brings the Z Nismo closer to its rivals.
Toyota faced similar pressure when it first launched the GR Supra without a clutch pedal. A manual was later introduced after vocal demand from buyers, which boosted the car’s appeal.
The move also acknowledges that the manual is not dead yet. Sales numbers are small compared to automatics, but buyers of performance cars continue to want that connection. For Nissan, catering to that audience is an important way to keep the Z relevant.
It is worth noting that the base Z Sport and Z Performance trims already offer the choice between a six speed manual and nine speed automatic. The manual has been available since launch at no additional cost. The Nismo joining that mix gives buyers the full package without compromise.
Timing remains unclear. Nissan has not provided a release date for the manual Nismo, so buyers may be waiting into next year or beyond before orders open. For now, steep discounts are available on 2024 and 2025 automatic Nismo models, making them a tempting buy for those less concerned about shifting gears themselves.
The Z continues to be one of the best selling sports cars in its class, outselling the Toyota Supra by three to one in the first half of 2025. With the Nismo manual confirmed, Nissan has given enthusiasts another reason to celebrate.
