Primary Navigation Mobile

Nissan 370Z Nismo interior, tech and comfort

2013 - 2020 (change model)
Comfort rating: 3 out of 53.0

Written by Keith Jones Published: 6 June 2019 Updated: 6 June 2019

From the driver’s seat it’s predominantly detail changes that distinguish the Nissan 370Z Nismo interior from its siblings.

Many of the interior plastics, particularly those that are in regularly contact with your hands, feel well-constructed although for a car of this price some of the detailing and switchgear feels a little below par key rivals.

Ergonomically it works well though, including the infotainment system with its plethora of buttons. That trio of ancillary dials on the centre-top of the dashboard, angled purposefully towards the driver, hark back to the car’s 1970s 240Z forebear without delving too deeply into the realms of retroism.

Trims and upholsteries feel appealingly tactile, with a part Alcantara steering wheel and faux suede door panels, although some may be disappointed with the lack of leather seats, even as an option.

Despite being sat low, the view out of the 370Z Nismo is generally good, particularly ahead of you. The door mirrors are usefully large too, which is just as well as the Nismo’s beefed-up rear spoiler obscures about a third of the visibility through the rear view mirror. It’s not so bad for monitoring traffic coming up behind you but for reversing you rely on the camera a lot.

If you’re buying a bewinged sports car such as the Nissan 370Z Nismo comfort is unlikely to be high on your list of priorities.

That said, the Nismo version of the already firm 370Z is more cosseting than you would expect, despite the larger wheels and stiffer suspension.

The reason is the Nismo sold in Europe has been slightly softened compared to the Japanese market models, meaning the ride is hardened rather than hardcore.

Drive over bumps, particularly at urban speeds, and they’re transmitted firmly rather than harshly through to the cabin. At higher speeds, undulations in the road that the regular 370Z would largely soak up can cause the Nismo version to be unsettled and fidgety.

On a positive countering note, the Nismo-specific seats are not only very supportive but comfortable too. All too often sports cars are fitted with seats that are hard, lacking in padding and which squeeze your middle.

Frustratingly, the steering wheel is only adjustable for angle rather than reach meaning some drivers will find their ideal, comfortable driving position somewhat compromised.

Getting in and out of the low-set seats might not be easy for the less-than-agile but once in there it’s a pleasant environment, thanks to the standard single-temperature control climate control with air-con.

Other conveniences such as electric windows and the four-way adjustment of the cloth-upholstered seats make the 370Z Nismo a reasonably civilised car in which to travel. No need to have a chiropractor’s number on speed dial, anyway.