Nissan Announces Starting Price of All-New 2003 350Z at $44,900

The new Z coupe will be offered in three well-equipped models, including a Performance model, a Touring model and Track Pack model. Two of the models are available for under $45,000, while the Track Pack model, lists at $46,500.

"The new Z, with its standard 280+ horsepower 3.5-litre V6, 4-wheel independent suspension and 6-speed manual transmission, offers $75,000-performance for under $50,000 - just as promised," said Ian Forsyth, director of marketing, Nissan Canada Inc.

Nissan also announced a comprehensive Z pre-order program, through dealers which allows Z buyers to price and order their Z cars in the model and colour they want beginning February 15, 2002.

"There has already been strong interest in the new Z with hundreds of buyers waiting to put down deposits," said Forsyth. "We're taking the unusual step of announcing full pricing, equipment availability and even colours now out of respect for our buyers and Z enthusiasts who have waited so patiently for the return of the legendary Z." The previous generation 300ZX sold in Canada and the U.S. as a 1996 model.

The new front engine, rear-wheel drive Z features a newly developed 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing in excess of 280 horsepower, with continuously variable valve timing control system (CVTCS), electronically controlled (drive-by-wire) throttle and dual exhaust outlets. The new Z is available with an electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode or 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission.

The new Z also comes equipped with 18-inch wheels and tires, 4-wheel independent multi-link suspension with extensive use of lightweight aluminum-alloy components, engine speed sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering, Nissan Direct Ignition System (NDIS), along with Traction Control System (TCS), available Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), power-assisted vented front and rear disc brakes and 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) on some models.

Inside the contemporary styled body is a driver-oriented interior environment, combining classic and cutting-edge sports car interior design with aluminum-alloy and leather surface materials. The instrument panel features 3-bay gauge pods similar to original 240Z design, while in the cargo area is an exposed rear strut tower brace featuring the "Z" logo. Standard safety and security items include dual-stage front supplemental air bags, driver and passenger side impact air bags and inflatable curtain air bags, front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, and front and rear crumple zones.

The Performance model, priced at $44,900, includes Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), a tire air pressure monitoring system, 18-inch wheels and tires, Xenon headlamps, HomeLink Universal Transceiver, cruise control, viscous limited-slip differential, aluminum pedals, Boseâ 240 watt audio system, power seats and more. Optional on the Performance model is a Navi Package which adds a DVD based Navigational System for $3,400.

The Touring model, which is the same price as the performance model at $44,900, comes with 5-speed automatic transmission with gated shifter and manual mode, Boseâ 240 Watt Audio System, Xenon headlights, Traction Control System (TCS), viscous limited-slip differential, cruise control and power seats. Add the DVD based Navigational System and the total is $48,300.

For the ultimate Z performance experience, the Track Pack model offers a rear spoiler, special 18-inch lightweight forged aluminum wheels, vented Brembo high-performance brakes, and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), along with Xenon headlamps, HomeLink Universal Transceiver, cruise control, viscous limited-slip differential, aluminum pedals and more.

The new Z will be available in a selection of one cloth interior colour, Carbon, and three colours of leather - Charcoal, Burnt Orange and Frost. Eight exterior colours are offered: Glacier Pearl, Chrome Silver, Ebony, Redline, Le Mans Sunset, Brickyard, Daytona Blue and Silverstone. The exterior colour names were chosen to reflect the Z's legendary racing heritage.

"With detailed equipment and pricing available, early Z buyers will be able to order their actual vehicles rather than just take a place in line," said Forsyth. "Once an order is taken, we'll start an ongoing dialog with the buyers which will continue up to and beyond their delivery date."
More information on the new Z is available at Nissan dealers or online at www.nissan.ca beginning February 15, 2002.

"Our goal is to eliminate some of the problems of previous high-interest car launches by giving everyone - customers and dealers alike - a level playing field," said Forsyth. "We want the focus to remain on the excitement of the Z, not the process of getting one."