IN THIS FEATURE The 'oh-my-god' threshold Almost comically aggressive The speedy and sensational S-Tune "Somebody's nicked the gear knob" Back to reality

But, back to the UK and reality. The 300bhp S-Tune that we also tried in the UK - slightly less hardcore than the Japanese S2, but otherwise the Full English - isn't coming here and if it did, would cost £50,000 (considerably more than, say, a Porsche Cayman).

So what's the point? Well, Nissan would be quite happy to sell you a whole range of NISMO upgrades beyond the aero package and wheels currently on offer, so this little demo car is one way of stirring interest.

Proof that Nissan can still build serious drivers' cars

For us, though, the NISMO 350Z S-Tune GT is much more significant. It's proof that Nissan is (still) serious about building drivers' cars that can stand comparison with the very best on offer from Europe.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have a mobile call to make...