Category: Affordable Sports 
Price Range: £26,900 to £31,900
Great engine, responsive and involving drive, Synchro Rev Match system is a touch of genius.
Small boot, restricted visibility.
Fantastic driving experience, loads of character, a natural successor to the 350Z.
At the time of writing, final details for the UK versions were still in negotiation, but the chances that they will be similar to the US specification models that we drove are high.
That means there's likely to be two trim levels with sport pack and navigation options on top. Where the UK cars will most likely differ from their US-bound cousins is in the inclusion of the switchable Synchro Rev Match system as standard. Hoorah.
Even in base specification equipment levels are good with cruise control, auto-air-con and enough clocks and dials to start a small watch shop.
The centre console uses what Nissan calls its Three-Layer concept. Unsurprisingly, this consists of three layers: information, operation and holding. The middle layer is similar to the outgoing model and poses few problems in terms of operation.
There are some nice touches: the addition of a knee pad against the transmission tunnel on both sides helps prevent bruising during moments of vigour, and the seat backs offer plenty of support.
Finicky drivers will not appreciate the lack of a reach adjustable steering column, but it is adjustable for height and seems to have been carefully positioned to offer a catch-all reach. It's a strange oversight though, particularly considering the ultra-adjustable nature of the driver's seat.
Also potentially playing on the nerves is the shortness of the seat base, which offers limited support behind the knee.
The 370Z is definitely quieter than the outgoing model with more a subdued burble from the engine and exhaust, but in terms of ride quality little has changed. For a car with such sharp handling and a firm suspension set-up, the 370Z copes admirably with rough road surfaces. Cosseting it is not, but it's considerably better than some other sports coupes. The distinctive transmission whine remains however, one of the characteristics that add to the Z's appeal.
A side-note to anyone familiar with the impractical 350Z boot: the 370Z features a much improved version with the cross-brace moved under the boot floor, freeing up space. It's still small, but might now be able to cope with at least weekend luggage for two.
