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The cries of enthusiasts have been heard, as Nissan reveals a manual version of the previously auto-only Z Nismo.
The 2026 Nissan Z Nismo is set to gain the one missing feature enthusiasts have been demanding all along: A manual transmission.
The new Z Nismo will be on display at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, and alongside the new six-speed manual, the updated 2026 model is set to receive minor revisions to its aerodynamics package.
Interior changes are minimal, with the Z Nismo MT featuring the same two-tone interior as the existing automatic version, except for the centre console, which ditches the automatic's puck-style gear selector for the regular Z’s manual gaiter and leather-wrapped gear knob.
Nissan also appears to have swapped the Nissan logo on the front bumper for a Z insignia.
Nissan hasn’t fully disclosed the extent of engineering changes to the 2026 Z Nismo, known as the Fairlady Z Nismo in Japan, but the manual’s 309kW/520Nm state of tune for the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 is likely to carry over unchanged.
The manual Z Nismo will share the Tokyo Auto Salon stand with a number of other concepts and production previews.
The highlight will be the simply-named Nismo Concept Model, which appears to be a preview of the Japanese market Note hatchback, treated to a wild Nismo overhaul, including an aggressively vented widebody styling package.
Nissan will also display an Autech styling package for the new Leaf electric crossover, with styling revisions including a front bumper lip, extended side sill, bumper insert with additional LED running lights, and new multi-spoke alloy wheels.
An extreme version of the Rock Creek trim level for the X-Trail will also be on display.
Similar to the American market Rogue Rock Creek, the Japanese show car wears the same off-road-inspired wheels and bumpers with red detailing, but adds bolt-on wheel arch extensions, mud flaps, side steps, a roof carrier basket, and contrasting black paint on the bonnet and roof.
The 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon runs from January 9 to 11, 2026 with more details of Nissan’s show cars, and the details of stands from other brands set to be released between now and then.
Kez Casey migrated from behind spare parts counters to writing about cars over ten years ago. Raised by a family of automotive workers, Kez grew up in workshops and panel shops before making the switch to reviews and road tests for The Motor Report, Drive and CarAdvice.
