2021 Nissan 400Z: Production Finally in Sight

We’ve all heard countless rumours and speculation about the upcoming Nissan 400Z. It’s a redesign long in the making, and some have argued quite overdue for the aging Z coupe. For such an auspicious occasion, we fully expect the design work to be extensive.

The global design chief at Nissan, Alfonso Albaisa, has already said that “It’s not retro as much as it’s respect, what it shows is real.” The “it” here is the Nissan teaser trailer “Nissan Next: From A to Z” which revealed a design for the new 400Z and other models such as the Ariya and Rogue.

From Albaisa’s words, what we should therefore expect is a firm nod to the traditional, but with an attractive modern twist to secure the more contemporary audience who never knew the older designs. The shadowy preview in “From A to Z” seems to show us a short deck and overhang at the rear of the vehicle. This is clearly similar to the 370Z. One immediate difference that’s apparent is hood length – the 400Z looks longer. Does this mean we can expect a larger, more powerful engine? We can but hope, but for now will have to wait and see.

There’s a strong expectation that the 2021 400Z will share its powertrain with the Q60 Coupe (Infiniti). If that pans out, then you can expect a twin-turbo V6 engine capable of 300hp and 400Nm of torque. That’s one theory, but of course others believe that we should expect a 400hp model that will fit the name 400Z better.

Image credit: AutoEvolution.com

Other design images seem to show us the double-halo lights at the front. This is undoubtedly what prompted a lot of wondering about how “retro” the 400Z would appear in design. This light arrangement is clearly a nod to the 270Z, and indicates that Albaisa wasn’t mincing words when he said it was all about respecting the past of this model.

One big question burning in the minds of Nissan fans concerns whether or not the 2021 400Z will have all-electric or hybrid options. Alas, those hoping for such options will be disappointed to learn, initially at lease, that the 400Z has been practically confirmed as a regular combustion engine initially. The information came from Nissan VP of global product strategy, Ivan Espinosa, speaking to Aussie mag CarAdvice in video conference. Fans of the 370Z predecessor may rejoice at that news. It’s only temporary though, we should expect alternative versions further down the line. Espinosa hinted as much when he added that there’s room for “two different things” when it comes to the 400Z.

Espinosa has already confirmed that the unveiling is “very close” and so it seems that any questions we have will soon be answered. Will it be more power for the new generation? A retro look with all the mod cons; a synergy of old and new? It shouldn’t be long, now.