Buyer's Guide: 2008 Nissan 350Z

NEW FOR 2008:

– Exterior colour: Nogaro Red added

Having received a new engine and styling enhancements in 2007, the Nissan 350Z is unchanged for 2008.

Available as a coupe or roadster, the 350Z uses a 3.5-litre V6, mated to a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission or five-speed automatic with manual shift mode. The FM (front mid-ship) platform positions the engine behind the front axle for a 53/47 front-to-rear weight balance.

Features on the coupe include 18-inch front and 19-inch rear alloy wheels with Brembo brakes, automatic climate control, bi-Xenon headlamps, heated mirrors, variable intermittent wipers, tire pressure monitoring system, trip computer, power windows, power locks with keyless entry, garage door opener, cruise control, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, heated leather seats, eight-way driver and four-way passenger adjustable seats with power slide, aluminum pedals, and six-CD stereo with wheel-mounted controls.

Also on the coupe, but not on the roadster, are rear spoiler, rear wiper, front chin spoiler, Bluetooth hands-free telephone system, XM Satellite Radio and curtain airbags.

The roadster uses 18-inch alloy wheels with Brembo brakes all around, and adds power top, rear wind deflector and rollover protection system.

Both models can be optioned with a navigation system.

Continuing the storied tradition of the Datsun and Nissan Z cars, the 350Z remains a wonderfully styled, fun-to-drive two-passenger model that can carve corners at high speed and still have enough manners for city traffic. There’s a surprising amount of passenger space, given its size, and just enough luggage room for a weekend jaunt. Shop it against cars like the Audi TT and the outgoing Chrysler Crossfire.