2011 Nissan 370Z Coupe Overview
More than forty years after the arrival of the original Datsun 240Z, the Z remains one of the best-selling sports cars in North America, as well as one of the best performance values. Totally redesigned for the 2009 model year, the iconic Z remains true to the original concept of combining style, performance and true sports car exhilaration in a package that is affordable to buy and holds its value over the period of ownership. The 2010 370Z, for example, received both a Consumers Digest Automotive Best Buy Award* and a 2010 Best Resale Value Award from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com.**
The 370Z Coupe is offered in two models for 2011, 370Z and 370Z Touring, each available with a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine and choice of 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed automatic transmission. The changes for the 2011 370Z are limited to the addition of RearView Monitor to the optional Navigation Package and one new exterior color, Gun Metallic.
In addition to the 2011 Nissan 370Z Coupe, an open-air 370Z Roadster and 350-horsepower NISMO 370Z are also available (full information on both models available separately – see Nissannews.com).
A Sculptural Yet Functional Exterior Design
The 2011 370Z Coupe's dynamic styling offers dual benefits – an aggressive appearance and a light, highly rigid structure for enhanced performance. The 370Z Coupe's 2nd generation FM platform provides a refined foundation for the well-proportioned body, with a 100.4-inch wheelbase, 167.2-inch overall length, 72.6-inch width and 51.8-inch height, giving it a classic sports car look and feel.
The Z® features aluminum door panels, along with an all-aluminum hood and an aluminum hatch. The body structure was extensively revised for this generation design, improving front body torsion rigidity by 30 percent and adding a front suspension cradle to help reduce front body lateral bending, rear structural reinforcements, and an underbody "V-bar" to help reduce rear lateral bending. The design also uses a carbon fiber composite radiator housing and strengthened rear fender and hatch areas.
The 370Z's taut exterior design incorporates intentional 240Z styling cues, a sleek aerodynamic shape, a "dynamic motion" feel with a dramatic cantilevered roof and a "low visual gravity." The sleek silhouette is defined by its upswept quarter window design that is echoed by the dynamic upward curvature in the lower rocker panel and the sense of the taut sheet metal molding itself around the wheels and frame.
Another distinctive feature of the bold exterior design is the headlight/taillight treatment, which features a fierce "boomerang" shape. High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with auto on/off feature are standard. The intense broad-shouldered rear shape is highlighted by the integration of the boomerang taillights and wide, flared rear fenders. Attention to detail and functionality is evident throughout the exterior design, including a flashing (repeater lamp) side marker lamp/emblem.
The coefficient of drag is 0.30 (0.29 with the Sport Package). The 370Z also provides zero front lift and zero rear lift when equipped with the rear spoiler, thanks to extensive aerodynamics efforts – including an "inverse area" front bumper design which smoothes the flow of air to the sides of the vehicle, while the rear design maximizes the control of air flow from the roof to the rear hatch.
Performance body pieces are available as part of the optional Sport Package, including a front chin spoiler and rear spoiler. The 2011 370Z is offered in seven exterior colors: Pearl White, Monterey Blue, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Black, Solid Red, Gun Metallic and Black Cherry.
A Cockpit Equipped To Make Car and Driver Feel Like One
The interior of the 2011 370Z Coupe continues the Z® tradition of enhancing driving pleasure. The traditional 2-seat layout is built around a deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length center console separating the driver and passenger's seat. In the rear is an open cargo area with ample storage and accessibility. The design focus incorporates a "layer concept," with an information layer, an operation layer and a holding layer.
The information layer provides good visibility with easy access to all key data. The gauges are attached to the steering column, so the driver doesn't have to choose between their preferred steering wheel position and visibility of the gauges. The large upper steering wheel opening in front of the gauges is designed to provide a good view of the readouts. The instrument panel retains the traditional 3-pod cluster with oil temperature, voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer include an "initial sweep" function, coming alive when the Z® is first started.
The operation layer includes the steering wheel, shifter and switchgear. The steering wheel is an "oval" 3-spoke design, which offers baseball-style stitching and large thumb grips and palm rest areas for improved feel on long drives. The surface of the leather-wrapped wheel is "shaved" to provide a more kidney-like shape to better fit in the hand. The manual transmission shifter is padded in different areas to improve the accuracy of diagonal shifts and to feel softer in the hand for forward and backward motions.
The holding layer includes the seats, knee pads and door trim support. The driver's seat is uniquely different from the passenger's seat, with lower seat cushion cut-outs on the sides where the thighs rest – allowing the driver to push on the pedals without the seat fighting them. The seat frame is constructed to help hold the driver in place during cornering. Both the driver and passenger's seats are structured with an anti-slip material in the main seating surface. The sporty woven cloth seats feature standard 8-way driver's/4-way passenger manual adjustments, with heated 4-way power-adjustable leather-appointed seats standard with the 370Z Touring model. Adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints are also standard. The interior features standard Black cloth. Nissan 370Z Touring models include a choice of Gray, Black or Persimmon leather-appointed and synthetic suede seating.
The door armrests have been designed to provide extra support when cornering and the kneepads are integrated to help the driver maintain the proper position while cornering.
Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Start, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto-lock feature, a center console box with a non-intrusive cover design, automatic climate control, rear window defroster with timer, two 12-volt power outlets, three cupholders, dual overhead map lights and a AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system with illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls.
The 370Z Touring model adds standard 4-way power adjustable heated leather-appointed and synthetic suede sport seats with adjustable lumbar support, 6CD Bose® audio system with eight speakers (includes dual subwoofer) and MP3/WMA playback, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, auto-dimming mirror, aluminum-trimmed pedals and retractable cargo cover.
Also available is the Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with 7-inch VGA touch-sensitive display, 9.3GB HDD Music Box, USB connectivity and iPod connection, XM NavTraffic with Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather™ (XM subscription required, sold separately), automatic phonebook download (select phones), Bluetooth Streaming Audio and Rearview Monitor.
The Pure Performance of a 332-horsepower V6
All 2011 370Z Coupes utilize the fourth generation of Nissan's award-winning VQ-series V6. The 3.7-liter VQ37VHR engine with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) is rated at 332 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm and 270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm.
Key to the outstanding performance is the VVEL system, which is able to optimize intake valve open/close movements, allowing the needed air to be sent promptly to the combustion chamber at the precisely optimized time. Since the VVEL system can adjust to open the valves slightly, it improves fuel efficiency by reducing camshaft friction and fuel waste.
It also provides cleaner emissions by allowing for quicker warm-up of the catalyst and by stabilizing combustion when the engine is cool.
The engine is backed by a choice of two advanced transmissions, both designed to improve driver performance. The close-ratio 6-speed manual includes an available synchronized downshift rev matching system, which allows drivers of any skill level to experience professional-like gear shift performance. The SynchroRev Match™ function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially "blipping" the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves the smoothness of gear shifts by reducing the typical "shock" when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer to shift on their own. The SynchroRev Match™ system is offered as part of the optional Sport Package.
The 370Z's 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in manual mode with a target time of 0.5 seconds between shifts. Drivers can use the standard paddle shifters or the shift lever. With optimized torque converter lock-up logic, the 7-speed automatic feels very direct, like a manual transmission. The 7-speed's wide gear ratios offer improved fuel efficiency (versus a 5-speed automatic), while the Adaptive Shift Control is designed to adjust to the driver's driving style.
Fuel economy is rated at 19 mpg City/26 mpg Highway for the 7-speed automatic and 18 mpg City/ 26 mpg Highway for the 6-speed manual transmission.
The Z®'s suspension has been designed to offer reduced weight, improved strength and improved camber change and lateral displacement (versus the previous 350Z suspension). The double-wishbone front suspension uses lightweight forged aluminum arms, a lightweight rigid aluminum-alloy cradle, and hollow construction stabilizer bar. The independent multi-link rear suspension is also stiffer and lighter than the previous generation design, with the rear cradle entirely integrated into a single part (no welding). "High response" shock absorbers are utilized on each corner, with ride comfort enhanced through reduced shock friction.
The standard 370Z wheel and tire package features 18x8.0-inch front/18x9.0-inch 5-spoke lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/50R18 front/P245/45R18 rear Yokohama ADVAN Sport high performance summer tires. Also available as part of the optional Sport Package are 19-inch RAYS forged lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A P245/40R19 front/P275/35R19 tires.
The Z®'s standard 4-wheel vented disc brake system includes Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The optional Sport Package includes Nissan Sport Brakes with large diameter 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear rotors (versus 12.6-inch front/ rear standard rotors) with 4-piston front and 2-piston rear aluminum calipers.
Steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion design that provides improved response. Unwanted steering kickback and vibrations are reduced through use of a solenoid valve that acts like a damper when there is a harsh impact load. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) is standard.
The 2011 Nissan 370Z's long list of standard safety and security features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensor; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted side-impact air bags; seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, Active Head Restraints, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Vehicle Security System and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Two Models, Two Options
The 2011 370Z model line-up consists of two models – 370Z and the 370Z Touring – and two available packages.
Along with the long list of standard features of the 370Z, the 370Z Touring adds heated leather-appointed and synthetic suede power seats, adjustable lumbar support, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, 8-speaker Bose® audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), auto-dimming inside mirror, cargo cover and aluminum-trimmed pedals.
The optional Sport Package features 19-inch RAYS forged wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires, aerodynamic front and rear spoiler, larger Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match™ (6-speed manual transmission only) and Viscous Limited Slip Differential (VLSD).
The Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System features a 7-inch VGA touch-sensitive display, 9.3GB HDD Music Box, USB connectivity and iPod connection, XM NavTraffic with Real-Time Traffic Information and XM NavWeather™ (XM subscription required, sold separately), automatic phonebook download (select phones) and Bluetooth Streaming Audio. A RearView Monitor has been added to the Navigation package for 2011.
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*Vehicle's projected resale value is specific to the 2010 model year. For more information, visit Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com.
**The 2010 Nissan Z® is winner of a Consumers Digest Best Buy Award.
2011 Nissan 370Z NISMO Overview
The dynamic Nissan NISMO 370Z, a tuner-Z® enthusiast’s dream and the most powerful production Z® ever offered, enters its third year in 2011 – again offering 350 horsepower, racing-inspired exterior and interior styling, a specially tuned suspension and unique super-lightweight forged alloy wheels.
Developed by Nissan’s Specialty Vehicles Group in conjunction with Autech Japan, Nissan’s longstanding conversion partner, the limited production NISMO 370Z provides unique performance and design attributes that true sports car enthusiasts are looking for straight from the factory. The limited production NISMO 370Z is offered in one completely equipped model with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission only and in a choice of five exterior colors, including one new exterior color for 2011: Gun Metallic.
Advanced VVEL V6 and Tuned Suspension Come Standard
Every NISMO 370Z starts with the unmatched foundation of an advanced Nissan FM (Front Midship) platform, refined 4-wheel independent suspension and 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL). The VVEL system helps optimize intake valve open/close movements, allowing the needed air to be sent promptly to the combustion chamber at the precisely optimized time.
For its use in the NISMO 370Z, the 3.7-liter VQ-series V6 produces 350 hp @ 7,400 rpm and 276 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm. The NISMO Z®’s enhanced engine power and acceleration is provided through use of an exclusive H-configured exhaust system design and muffler tuning, along with optimized ECM (Engine Computer Module) control. The NISMO 370Z is offered with only one transmission, a close-ratio 6-speed manual with Nissan’s “SynchroRev Match” synchronized downshift rev matching system.
The “SynchroRev Match” function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the speed of the next gear position, essentially “blipping” the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves the smoothness of gear shifts by reducing the typical “shock” when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer to shift on their own.
The NISMO 370Z features a tight, rigid body structure with a strut tower bar brace and a pair of performance dampers, which quickly and efficiently react to help control body vibrations from road input via the tires, contributing to the NISMO 370Z’s outstanding handling and performance feel.
The NISMO Z®’s double-wishbone front/4-link rear suspension design suspension is specially tuned for exceptional handling. Compared to a standard Nissan 370Z Coupe, front spring rates have been dialed up 15%, rear spring rates 10%, front stabilizer bar rate upped 15% and the rear stabilizer bar is 50% stiffer. The roll stiffness rate has been increased by 15% and front and rear damping factors have been increased by 40% and 140% respectively.
The NISMO 370Z rides on unique 5-spoke Nissan-branded 19-inch RAYS forged aluminum-alloy wheels (19x9.5-inch front, 19x10.5-inch rear) mounted with Yokohama ADVAN Sport Y-rated high-performance tires (P245/40ZR19 front, P285/35ZR19 rear).
Bringing the NISMO 370Z to a stop are standard NISMO Sport Brakes with large diameter 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear vented rotors with 4-piston front and 2¬piston rear aluminum calipers. The braking system also includes a variable ratio brake pedal for a more direct pedal stroke feel, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). A Viscous Limited-Slip Differential (VLSD) is standard on all NISMO 370Zs, along with Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC).
Responsive steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion design. Unwanted steering kickback and vibrations are reduced with the use of a solenoid valve that acts like a damper when there is a harsh impact load.
Unique NISMO 370Z Exterior and Interior Designs
Along with its standout performance, the 2011 NISMO Z® offers unique appearance treatments inside and out, designed to be highly emotional yet totally functional. The fully integrated aerodynamic body pieces include an extended front nose design and a fully integrated chin spoiler – providing a sense of dynamic movement while enhancing airflow and downforce for enhanced aerodynamic performance. The NISMO 370Z has an overall length of 173.4 inches – 6.2 inches longer than the standard 370Z Coupe. Special side sills and a unique rear bumper help control airflow under the vehicle, while the functional rear spoiler increases downforce.
Like the standard 370Z Coupe, the NISMO 370Z exterior also includes a wide stance, sculptural fenders, upswept quarter windows, bold “boomerang” shaped headlights and taillights, vertical door handles, heated outside mirrors, and aluminum hood, door panels and hatchback. The headlights are a High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon design with an auto on/off feature. The NISMO 370Z is offered in five exterior colors: Pearl White, Brilliant Silver, Magnetic Black, Solid Red and the new Gun Metallic.
Inside, the NISMO 370Z’s driver-centric interior includes NISMO logo seats with black and red fabric and red stitching, a NISMO tachometer, steering wheel with smooth leather wrap and red parallel stitching, smooth leather-wrapped shift knob and aluminum trimmed pedals. A special serialized plaque of authenticity, located on the vertical panel above the floor-mounted console, is matched to each NISMO Z®, identifying its unique serial and model year designation.
The NISMO 370Z’s 2-seat interior layout is built around a deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length center console separating the driver and passenger’s seat. In the rear is an open cargo area with easy accessibility. The instrument panel includes a 3-pod cluster with oil temperature, voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer include an “initial sweep” function, coming alive when the NISMO Z® is first started.
Both the driver and passenger’s seats are structured with an anti-slip material in the main seating surface. The sporty woven cloth seats feature standard 8-way driver’s/4-way passenger manual adjustments and adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints.
Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Start, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto-lock feature, a center console box with a non-intrusive cover design, automatic climate control, rear window defroster with timer, two 12¬volt power outlets, four cupholders (two in door panels, two in center console), dual overhead map lights and a AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system with illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls.
The NISMO Z®’s long list of standard safety and security features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensor; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted side-impact air bags; seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, Active Head Restraints, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Vehicle Security System and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Along with the NISMO Z®, the 2011 Nissan 370Z is available in 370Z Coupe and 370Z Roadster models (full information available separately – see NissanNews.com).
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2011 Nissan 370Z Roadster Overview
When it comes to understanding the success of the popular Nissan 370Z Roadster, the story is simple: seductive styling, legendary Z performance, the most refinement of any Z convertible ever offered and one other thing – an exhilarating connection to the air, wind and environment.
Its list of cutting edge technology includes the standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL), choice of 7-speed automatic transmission or close-ratio 6-speed manual with available SynchroRev Match™ (the world's first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission), refined 4-wheel independent suspension, 4-wheel vented disc brakes (with available Nissan Sport Brakes) and lightweight yet rigid body structure.
The changes to the Z Roadster for the 2011 model year are limited to the addition of RearView Monitor to the optional Navigation Package and one new exterior color, Gun Metallic.
A Truly Authentic Roadster
The 370Z Roadster's most obvious departure from the 370Z Coupe, which serves as the foundation platform, is its convertible top. The soft-top roof was designed with an emphasis on three key areas: to provide a sleek silhouette matching the new Z's stunning styling with the top up or down, to offer easy single-action open-close operation, and to provide an enjoyable top-down experience with reduced wind turbulence and all-climate driver/passenger comfort.
With convertible top in the closed position, the design provides a sophisticated sloped-back appearance, the perfect balance between the soft top and the Z body design.
The shortened windshield and aerodynamically rounded rear deck enhance the Z®'s kinetic and dynamic character lines. When in the down position, the convertible top is concealed beneath a full body-color hard tonneau cover, which extends forward to help create the Z® Roadster's classic "double cockpit" style interior.
The standard black (a Bordeaux color top is available with the Wine colored interior) cloth convertible top features a fabric inner liner, which provides a quality appearance and helps reduce noise intrusion into the cabin, along with a large glass rear window with an integrated electric rear window defroster. The top operation takes approximately 20 seconds and is controlled by either a center console-mounted switch or by a button located on the doors (top lowering only). The automatic latch system secures the top to – or releases it from – the windshield header without driver intervention. The shape and position of the glass wind deflector, located between the fixed headrest bars, has been optimized to reduce turbulence into the cabin.
Like the 370Z Coupe, the Z® Roadster's exterior is more aggressive in appearance and lighter and tighter in structure than the previous generation. The Z® Roadster features an aluminum hood, door panels and trunk for reduced weight. It includes additional structural reinforcement (over the 370Z Coupe), including in the A-pillars and side sills.
The Z Roadster's exterior design incorporates the look and feel of the Z Coupe, including its signature long nose/short cockpit proportions, vertical door handles and distinctive headlight/taillight treatment, which features a fierce "boomerang" shape. High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with auto on/off feature are standard.
The 2011 370Z Roadster is offered in seven exterior colors: Solid Red, Magnetic Black, Brilliant Silver, Gun Metallic, Pearl White, Monterey Blue and Black Cherry.
Inside the stunning exterior, true to its sports car heritage, the Z Roadster's interior is completely driver-centric, with its three-layer design grouping items by how a driver sees information, operates the controls and is held in place – so drivers feel completely connected and engaged whenever and wherever they drive, top up or down.
The Z Roadster features high back black woven "Carbon" cloth seats with 8-way manual driver's/4-way manual passenger's seat adjustments. Touring models include unique leather-appointed seats with 4-way power/4-way manual operation on the driver's seat (4-way power on the passenger's seat). These seats are exclusive to the Z? Roadster and have integrated heating and cooling functions – ideal for open air driving no matter what the outside temperature. Adjustable front seat Active Head Restraints are also standard.
The Z Roadster's 2-seat layout includes a deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length center console separating the driver and passenger's seat. The instrument panel retains the traditional Z 3-pod cluster with oil temperature, voltmeter and clock, while the speedometer and tachometer now include an "initial sweep" function, coming alive when the car is first started.
The sporty steering wheel is a new "oval" 3-spoke design, which offers baseball-style stitching, improved thumb grips and palm rest areas for improved feel on long drives. The surface of the leather-wrapped wheel is "shaved" to provide a more kidney-like shape to better fit in the hand. The manual transmission shifter is specially padded to improve the accuracy of diagonal shifts and to feel softer in the hand for forward and backward motions.
Standard interior comfort and convenience features include Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition, power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature, power door locks with auto-lock feature and a center console box with a non-intrusive cover design.
Other features include automatic climate control, two 12-volt power outlets, three cupholders (two in door panels, one in center console) and an AM/FM/CD/AUX 4-speaker audio system with illuminated steering wheel-mounted controls.
The Touring model adds a 6CD Bose audio system with eight speakers (includes dual subwoofer) and MP3/WMA playback, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver and aluminum-trimmed pedals.
The optional Navigation Package includes the touch-screen Nissan Hard Drive Navigation System with XM NavTraffic® Real-Time Traffic Information and NavWeather® (XM® subscription required, sold separately), 9.3GB Music Box® hard drive for digital music storage and playback and USB connectivity that is iPod® compatible. The navigation system offers a number of enhancements (versus previous Nissan Navigation System designs), including four times higher screen resolution, Bluetooth® Streaming Audio, on-board Zagat Survey® restaurant ratings database, an in-dash DVD player and XM NavWeather® weather information display (XM® subscription required, sold separately).
The 370Z Roadster interior is available in Black cloth or for 370Z Touring Roadster models, a choice of Gray, Black or Wine leather-appointed A/C and heated ventilated seats.
Open Air, Open Roads – An Unbeatable Combination
Again in 2011, the 370Z Roadster features one of the most advanced drivetrains available for affordable sports cars today. The long list of cutting edge performance-focused technologies includes a standard 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL), choice of 7-speed automatic transmission or close-ratio 6-speed manual with available "SynchroRev Match" (the world's first synchronized downshift rev matching manual transmission), refined 4-wheel independent suspension and 4-wheel vented disc brakes (with available Nissan Sport Brakes).
The VVEL system is able to optimize intake valve open/close movements, allowing the needed air to be sent promptly to the combustion chamber at the precisely optimized time. Since the VVEL system can adjust to open the valves slightly, it improves fuel efficiency by reducing camshaft friction and fuel waste.
It also provides cleaner emissions by allowing for quicker warm-up of the catalyst and by stabilizing combustion when the engine is cool.
The 2011 Z Roadster is offered with a choice of two advanced transmissions – a close-ratio 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic. The 6-speed manual is available with SynchroRev Match™ (included in the optional Sport Package), which allows drivers of any skill level to experience professional-like gear shift performance. The SynchroRev Match™ function automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the speed of the next gear position, essentially "blipping" the throttle to smooth out up/down shifts. This not only allows the driver to focus more on braking and steering, it improves the smoothness of gear shifts by reducing the typical "shock" when the clutch is engaged. The system can be deactivated with a button next to the shifter for drivers who prefer to shift on their own.
The available 7-speed automatic includes Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in manual mode. Drivers can use the standard paddle shifters or the shift lever. The 7-speed's wide gear ratios offer improved fuel efficiency (versus a 5-speed automatic), while the Adaptive Shift Control is designed to adjust to the driver's driving style.
Estimated fuel economy for the 2011 370Z Roadster is 18 mpg City/25 mpg Highway for both the 7-speed automatic and 6-speed manual transmissions.
The Z® Roadster also utilizes the Z Coupe's advanced 4-wheel independent suspension. The double-wishbone front suspension uses lightweight forged aluminum arms and a lightweight rigid aluminum-alloy cradle, along with a hollow construction stabilizer bar. The 4-link rear suspension integrates the rear cradle into a single part. "High response" shock absorbers are utilized on each corner for enhanced ride comfort.
The standard 370Z Roadster wheel and tire package features 18x8.0-inch front/18x9.0-inch lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/50R18 front/P245/45R18 rear Bridgestone Potenza RE050A summer tires.
Available as part of the optional Sport Package are 19-inch RAYS forged lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A P245/40R19 front/P275/35R19 tires.
The Z®'s standard 4-wheel vented disc brake system includes Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The optional Sport Package includes Nissan Sport Brakes with large diameter 14.0-inch front and 13.8-inch rear rotors (versus 12.6-inch front/rear standard rotors) with 4-piston front and 2-piston rear aluminum calipers.
Steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted rack-and-pinion design. Unwanted steering kickback and vibrations are reduced with the addition of a solenoid valve that acts like a damper when there is a harsh impact load. A Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system is standard.
The Nissan 370Z Roadster's list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensor; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; door-mounted curtain air bags; and seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Other standard equipment includes Active Head Restraints, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, Nissan Vehicle Immobilizer System, Vehicle Security System and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Two Well-Equipped Models
The 2011 Z® Roadster is offered in two well-equipped models – 370Z Roadster and the 370Z Touring Roadster. The Touring model includes the heated and cooling leather-appointed power seats, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, 8-speaker Bose® audio system, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and aluminum-trimmed pedals.
Two option packages are offered with the Touring model: the Sport Package, with 19-inch RAYS forged wheels and Bridgestone Potenza tires, Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match (6-speed manual transmission only) and Viscous Limited Slip Differential; and the Navigation Package, with Hard Drive-based Nissan Navigation System, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive, new RearView Monitor and USB connectivity. A spare tire is optionally available with both models.
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