From the Tokyo Auto Salon comes some good news for fans of the new Z. Nissan showed again an orange concept based on the Fairlady Z Customized Proto from last year with minor tweaks. That’s because the split nose, which many fans preferred over the production Z’s large rectangular grille, has been given the go-ahead for production.
The production kit will not have the fender flares, but there’s still plenty of tributes to the S30 Fairlady Z432-R that inspired it. The front comes with a black lower lip reminiscent of the original’s chin spoiler. At the rear a black carbon fiber spoiler evokes the R’s black one. Black side and hood decals over orange paint also harken back to the Z432-R’s color scheme. Last but not least, the round “Z” logos on the C-pillars have been replaced by ones with a double chrome ring around them, a throwback to the S30.
Though the stock silver “katana blade” trim that traces the roofline from A- to C-pillar has been recolored, it’s now black. We preferred last year’s orange blade to because it looked more like the rain gutter of the S30 Z, but understandably it would be too costly for dealers be able to match it to the various factory colors and reinstall them.
Interestingly, the concept keeps some references to tuner culture. The wheels resemble RS-Watanabe 8-spokes but measure 19 inches in diameter. The lower part of the new fascia has two ducts that are reminiscent of BRE chin spoilers as well.
Nissan will make this kit available as a dealer option starting in mid-2023. So far, it only seems destined for Japan, but that could change. At least it will be produced. Now hopefully that other orange Z from the Auto Salon isn’t.
That looks super good. Too bad all the magazines and media have already shamed this car for its lackluster performance. Sure, there are many aftermarket folks ready to tackle and tack on the mods, but right out of the box it’s been relegated to runner-up.
That should be the standard front facia for all Zs.
Wholeheartedly agree.
I agree also.
It’s not only an excellent aesthetic choice but, is potentially allowing the front end more stability and strength to the front end … Nissan chose .. wisely.
Might as well throw fake bumpers front and rear…
Ben, specifically who at TAS 2023 that told you directly this was going into production as a dealer installed Nissan part?
Disclose the source or admit this was just unsubstantiated clickbait heresay.
Are those the only two possibilities? Geez, I better do as you say right away!