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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2009 Nissan 370Z

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Nissan 370Z

Overview

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2009 Nissan 370Z Review

By KBB.com Editors

Much like the original Datsun 240Z, Nissan's intention for the 2009 370Z is to offer world-class design and performance at an enticing value. Competitors for the Nissan 370Z include affordable coupes like the Ford Mustang and Honda Accord Coupe all the way up to premium competitors like the Porsche Cayman and BMW Z4 Coupe. Compared to the 350Z that preceded it, the 370Z's exterior and interior have been thoroughly redesigned along with significant improvements in quality, performance and technology that should help it remain a strong performer in the sports coupe category. Fans of the Z Convertible may be disappointed to learn that only the 370Z Coupe will be sold during the first year of production.

You'll Like This Car If...

You'll like the Nissan 370Z if you want a fast, fun and approachably priced sports coupe. Buyers eyeing the offerings from Porsche and BMW will find the 370Z offers similar thrills at a much lower price.

You May Not Like This Car If...

The original 240Z won fans by delivering great style and performance at an impressively low price. While still a good value, the 370Z's starting price around $30,000 may no longer fit everyone's definition of affordable.

What's Significant About This Car?

Big changes for 2009 include more power, less weight, a revised engine, a new seven-speed automatic transmission and an automatic rev-matching downshift feature for the six-speed manual transmission. There have also been noticeable improvements made to the interior that address the quality concerns of the previous 350Z.

Driving the 370Z

Driving Impressions In motion, the Nissan 370Z's lighter chassis, shorter wheel base and wider track work together to provide immediate, sporty handling. Yet, on long stretches of highway, the ride never feels...

overly harsh and the cabin remains impressively quiet. When pushed hard, at the racetrack perhaps, the stability control system can feel overly eager to intervene. Turn stability control off, and the 370Z remains balanced and forgiving. There is plenty of power coming out of the corners, lots of grip when turning, and the brakes are strong and easy to modulate. The 370Z's automatic transmission works quite well, but the easy-to-modulate clutch, short throw shifter and SynchroRev Match option of the manual transmission make it hard to pass up. Forward visibility is good thanks to thin A-pillars, but rear visibility is limited to a narrow slit of glass by the stylishly raked rear hatch.

Favorite Features

SynchroRev Match
Heel-toe down shifting, which requires using the right foot to both brake and blip the throttle, is one of the most difficult skills for any driver to learn. The 370Z's SynchroRev Match system blips the throttle, automatically providing butter-smooth downshifts every time. Driving purists who would rather match revs the old fashioned way are given the option to shut the system off.

Seven-Speed Automatic Transmission
Delivering the direct feel and fuel economy of a manual transmission along with quick, smooth shifts, the paddle shifter-equipped seven-speed automatic found in the Nissan 370Z is a winner.

2009 Nissan 370Z Details

Interior

Some of the biggest improvements made to the 2009 Nissan 370Z are found inside. The new 370Z does away with the hard plastic that graced the old model, opting instead for soft-touch surfaces covering the dash, door trim and almost anywhere an occupant's hand might rest. Overall interior volume has shrunk slightly, but efficient use of the available space resulted in identical head room and improved leg, hip and shoulder room. The large structural element that bisected the previous model's trunk has also been removed, which, along with storage nooks behind the seats, greatly improves the 370Z's cargo-carrying abilities.

Exterior

Unlike most new cars, the 2009 Nissan 370Z is actually smaller in length, height, and wheel base than the car it replaced, its tidier dimensions contributing to the new model's reduced weight and solid, planted stance. In shaping the 370Z's exterior Nissan's design team retained enough of the 350Z's essence to make the new model immediately recognizable as a member of the Z family. However, the 370Z has a distinct persona of its own thanks to unique details including "boomerang" head and tail lights, big flared fenders and a cantilevered roof reminiscent of the Nissan GT-R's.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2009 Nissan 370Z comes in two trims, base and Touring. Even in base form, the 370Z is well equipped with automatic climate control, steering wheel audio and cruise controls, keyless entry and start, xenon headlights and a four-speaker audio system with auxiliary input. Moving up to the Touring trim adds niceties like power-adjustable heated seats, Bluetooth, leather and suede interior, aluminum pedals and a Bose audio system with eight speakers including two subwoofers. Adding to the safety of both trims are standard stability control, traction control, active head restraints, tire pressure monitoring system and six airbags.

Optional Equipment

There are only two options available for the Nissan 370Z. A Sport Package is available for both base and Touring trims and includes a Viscous limited-slip differential, 19-inch forged wheels, sport brakes and downshift rev matching on cars equipped with the manual transmission. The Sport Package also includes a rear spoiler and front chin spoiler that eliminate aerodynamic lift at higher speeds. Available only for the Touring trim is a Navigation Package that includes a navigation system, real-time traffic information, iPod connectivity and 9.3 gigabytes of on-board music storage.

Under the Hood

Power for the 2009 370Z comes from the latest generation of Nissan's venerated VQ series V6 engine. Producing 332-horsepower, the 370Z's engine delivers more power than last year's model while moving less mass thanks to a chassis that weighs approximately 95 pounds less. Stealing some of the focus away from the Z's excellent engine are its advanced transmission options: a standard six-speed manual and an optional seven-speed automatic. Manual-equipped cars with the optional Sport Package also feature SynchroRev Match, a system that automatically blips the throttle for seamless downshifts.

3.7-liter V6
332 horsepower @ 7000 rpm
270 lb.-ft. of torque @ 5200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/26

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Nissan 370Z vehicles for sale near you.

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2009 Nissan 370Z Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.6

Out of 10

Based on 79 Ratings for the 2009 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.6/10

Quality

9.7/10
Reliability

9.8/10

Performance

9.8/10
Comfort

9.1/10

Styling

9.7/10

Awesome car

By Lola (FL) on Thursday, July 25, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 18,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "smooth drive and super fun"

Cons: "expensive to purchase"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"The only thing I don't like about my car is that it is a 2 seater, but I knew this going in to it obviously. I love my car, it is such a smooth ride and so fun to drive. Sometimes when I walk up to it in a parking lot I just say to myself DANG that is a pretty car. Favorite car I have ever owned!"

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Nize.... FUN Z34

By Falco300zx (WA) on Saturday, May 18, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Styling, Powerful, good handling, comfort"

Cons: "Small boot and compartment, excessive cabin noise"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I love this car. It has all the bell and whizz my 300ZX doesn't have. Incredible road tracking, handling, power, and electronic gadgets. Pro. + Styling, Powerful engine, handling, level of comfort Con. - Big booty on the outside (small inside), somewhat high level of road noise in cabin area, small glove compartment. I have a lot more space in my 300ZX. Overall, it is an ideal and a true breed sport coupe. Run ride and awesome handling machine."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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What a ride for the money

By Hal (FL) on Sunday, April 07, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 16,700

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Great price Handling is great"

Cons: "coupe stock radio and speakers suck upgrade"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"The coupe is the best car I've purchased. What a value. Ride is so smooth quick and responds. Fun to drive anywhere. They could of put a better radio in the coupe. This Z is so quiet compared to the old Z s"

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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I own a 2013 and I love it!

By jerseydavey (MD) on Thursday, March 21, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 6,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "fast for cheap, handles really well, nice interior"

Cons: "space is limited but not bad"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I own a gun metallic 2013 370z coupe with the sport package. I have about 6,000 miles on the car and I love it. I am a bigger guy who is 6'3 and about 225 pounds and I fit in the car with no problems comfortably. I find the space in the trunk is often more than enough or two people or running to get some groceries. I love the look of the car and all I did was put on the stillen long tube cold air intakes and I have the same horsepower (about 350hp) as the NIMSO 370z for way less money than a NISMO. My dad has a mustang GT and every time I go home he just says how good looking it is and that he doesn't see as many on the road as the mustang GT. My girlfriend loves the car and likes to be seen in it. So far it has been great and I have people ask me about the car sometimes at gas stations and store parking lots, so it seems people really like it. It's over all a great sports car with similar performance stats for less money then a BMW M3, an Audi TTS, a corvette, camaro, challenger, or the mustang GT."

1 person out of 2 found this review helpful

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Buy it if you love the Z Line period

By OGNeoSoul (TX) on Thursday, March 21, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 16,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Everything"

Cons: "Frightening your passenger sometimes"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"It's like this, you can't possibly tell a Lamborghini or Porsche owner that another car is better simply because they know in their minds it's for them and the best car out there. (Ok, we'll include the BMW and Mercedes owners, too) Just like the Z line of cars from Nissan. You have a history to enjoy if you truly follow your car purchase like I do. I'm convinced that certain cars are top of the line even if you like the Infiniti line. You would never buy an Infiniti if you love the Z car and visa-versa with the Infiniti. You have to love it...that's it and without question. Reviewing the Z I bought, it was a touring edition (the very best way to enjoy this car is touring) and most people shy away from the price or do not have enough credit to even come close to getting one. So, for the Touring you will get very close or over $60k as a final price for purchase. That's right, PURCHASE. It makes a point that I love the car so much that I bought instead of leasing (yes you can lease it). But it is sooo well worth it. This car handles like a dream even though it's rear wheel but you better be a very good driver to make this car perform at a high rate of speed and this car can take off on just about every car out there and some with higher hp because it's quicker and lighter and has a little thing called Rev Match (only in auto mode shifting with Touring). As most of us weave through traffic like they are standing still (no way you can do that in a Vette) you will get good and bad looks. I always engcourage my fellow Z owners th drive with the headlights on because it looks soo sweet and when people see you coming they tend to get out of the way. You will probably get a few speeding tickets but there's nothing like driving this car just the way it is. I mean no modifications have been done on my Z at all. I just plan to tint the windows. When you start to drive on the highway, I suggest no music and just listen to the car. It sounds wonderful. And the acceleration control that you have will definitely get you in the mood. an enthusiasts dream!! I'm definitely keeping my Z, and I followed the Skyline editions too and I plan to buy a GTR in 2014. I'm an official Z Car owner and it's the best, ever. A TRUE NISSAN FAN!!!"

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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More fun than a Corvette

By ferraridave (TX) on Monday, January 21, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 30,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Looks exotic, a blast to drive, you don't see many"

Cons: "Little storage, fragile front spoiler, loud tires"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought a new 2012 370 Nismo Z last January and it is the most entertaining car I have ever owned. With the wing and different fromt end and 19" wheels, don't drive it if you don't like attention. It is very fast and handles like a dream. Traction control and synchro rev match make it even better. OK, now for the bad: The Bose stereo was not available in 2012, but is in 2013. The original tires were terrible! They were so loud, I could not hear my radio, and they were showing cord at 12K miles. Beware of curbs and steep driveways. Gas mileage is not great, and precious little storage space. But! I LOVE this car! I look forward to driving it to work every day!"

2 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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See all 79 reviews