Nissan 350Z Roadster (05-10) - Review

As a two-seater, the 350Z offers decent room for both passengers, with supportive yet comfortable sports seats. In GT models they're both electrically adjustable while on the standard car they have to be moved manually. Ride quality is good for a performance machine, although it can crash over bumps in town. Climate control and electric windows are fitted as standard, although there's considerable road noise at higher speeds due to the fabric roof.

The electrically folding roof is pretty fast and retracts into the boot in just 20 seconds. It's easy to operate, although it's not fully automatic as you have to twist a handle to release it first. The boot is capable of holding a couple of overnight bags or a small weekly shop, but to accommodate the roof, space is halved compared to the coupé. As a result there's just 130-litres of space - less than a MINI. Stowage in the cabin is limited too, although there is a decent glovebox, a pop-out cupholder and a lidded compartment behind the rear seats. Revised models from 2006 have more useful door pockets with an incorporated bottle holder.

The interior of the roadster is just like the coupe, so there's a clear dash and plenty of appealing details, like three dials that face the driver in the centre and an instrument cluster that adjusts for height with the steering wheel. Leather is optional, as are ventilation seats which keep you cool in summer, but can be warmed up on cold mornings. The driver sits in a low-slung driving position with a good view of the road ahead, although rear visibility is limited and there's no reach adjustment on the steering column.