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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2012 Nissan 370Z

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Overview

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2012 Nissan 370Z Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 7.7

There is so much to like about the 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe and Roadster that you could almost justify owning one no matter what the circumstances. From a performance point of view, the 370Z is pure perfection, with a sweet-singing V6 engine teamed to a slick-shifting manual transmission, glued-to-the-road handling, and an interior that is visually one of our favorite places to sit. Priced in line with the V8-powered Chevy Camaro and Ford Mustang GT, the 2012 Nissan 370Z is easily affordable, providing you need only one car. While others, such as the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, fancy themselves real competition, many 370Z owners feel their cars are more in league with such titans as the Audi TT, Porsche Cayman and BMW Z4. Regardless of what you're comparing it to, there really is only one Nissan 370Z, a car that will keep a smile on your face long after you've shut off the engine and locked the doors.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're looking for seat-of-your-pants performance in a sexy coupe that won't break the bank, take a spin in a 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe. Open-air fans will love the 370Z Roadster version.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you're looking for the best value-to-horsepower ratio, you can climb behind the wheel of a V6-powered Mustang or Camaro, both of which have more than 300 horsepower and a starting price well below $25,000.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

7.7
Driving Dynamics

8.2
Comfort & Convenience

6.6
Design: Interior & Exterior

7.6
Value

6.8
Safety

7.9

How It Ranks

#8

out of 12

MPG

#8

out of 13

Horsepower

View all rankings

Consumer Rating

9.6 out of 10

View all
consumer ratings

What's New for 2012

There are no major changes for 2012.

Driving the 370Z

Driving Impressions Unlike its 350Z predecessor, the 2012 Nissan 370Z doesn't force a trade-off between razor-sharp handling and a comfortable ride. The 370Z's sport-tuned suspension is able to perform its magic thanks...

to the car's lightweight body, short wheelbase and wide track; 19-inch performance tires don't hurt either. In the curves, the 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe displays almost no lean or roll, cornering flat as though it were a roller-coaster cart on rails. The well-modulated power steering is spot-on, although just as we were pushing it to its limits, the annoying stability-control systems intervened to spoil the fun. Luckily, Nissan allows the system to shut off, leaving the driver free to test his or her skills the old-fashioned way. As we suspected, with the VDC switched off, the 370Z remains balanced and forgiving. As for power, we never felt let down by the 3.7-liter V6, nor were we disappointed by the grip from the summer tires or the excellent brakes. Nissan'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 our transmission of choice.

Favorite Features

SynchroRev Match
Heel-toe downshifting, 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 2012 Nissan 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.

7-Speed Automatic Transmission
Delivering the direct feel and fuel economy of a manual transmission along with quick, smooth shifts, the paddle shifter-equipped 7-speed automatic found in the 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe is a winner.

2012 Nissan 370Z Details

2012 Nissan 370Z Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

Choosing to draw heavily from its Infiniti line rather than the more pedestrian Nissan sedans has endowed the 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe with a gorgeous interior that no one will ever criticize as being too plastic or hard-surfaced. Rich color choices for the seats and door cards complement a cockpit filled with soft-touch surfaces and tasteful metallic-looking trim. Nissan maximized the Z's interior space creating a roadster-sized car that can comfortably fit two 6-foot adults. Excellent sport seats hold their occupants firmly in place without the feeling of being shoehorned, and an IP cluster than moves in conjunction with the tilt steering wheel assures drivers of all sizes will find a comfortable position without sacrificing a clear view of the 370Z's impressive instruments. A nice tribute to the original Z car are the three individual gauges for oil, temperature and volts (there's a clock in there, too) mounted atop the center dash and angled toward the driver. While cargo space isn't usually a big priority among this car's owners, it's nice to know there is a usable area behind the seats easily accessible via the large hatch opening (or smallish trunk on the Roadster).

Exterior

Bucking the trend to grow larger and longer, the 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe retains its taut dimensions and lightweight chassis. Sitting low to the ground is one of the keys to the 370Z's impressive handling, but the look becomes more dramatic when equipped with the available Sport Package, which adds side ground effects and a low front spoiler (designed to reduce lift). One look at the 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe reveals its strong family heritage with Nissan's other performance legend, the Maxima Sedan. Shared styling cues include boomerang-shaped headlights and taillights, as well as a rich color palate. There's a bit of GT-R in the 370Z's large flared fenders and cantilevered roof, while its radically styled 19-inch 5-spoke wheels are unlike anything offered by Nissan. The 370Z Roadster features a power-operated soft top that stows beneath a color-keyed hard cover.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe comes in two trims, base and Touring, and one special edition trim: Nismo. Even in base form, the 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe is well equipped with automatic climate control, steering-wheel audio and cruise controls, keyless entry and start, xenon headlights and a 4-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 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe. 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 and weather information, iPod connectivity and 9.3 gigabytes of on-board music storage.

Under the Hood

Power for the 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe comes from the latest generation of Nissan's venerated VQ series V6 engine. Producing 332 horsepower (350 in the Nismo), the 370Z's engine delivers robust performance and impressive fuel economy. Stealing some of the focus away from the Z's excellent engine are its advanced transmission options: a standard 6-speed manual and an optional 7-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 @ 7,000 rpm
350 horsepower @ 7,400 rpm (Nismo)
270 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm
276 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm (Nismo)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/26 (manual), 19/26 (automatic)

Pricing Notes

Pricing for the 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe starts just over $32,000 for the base coupe and moves up to about $37,000 for the Touring trim. The Nismo edition is priced just shy of $41,500, while the Roadster runs between $40,500 and $46,000. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard with a 7-speed automatic available for an additional $1,300 (N/A on Nismo). The Navigation System adds an extra $2,150 to the bottom line while the Sport Package increases the price by around $3,000. To compare the actual transaction prices for the Nissan 370Z, be sure to check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price. Like the 350Z before it, the 2012 Nissan 370Z Coupe is expected to hold its value well over time, far better than the Mazda RX-8, Ford Mustang V6 and Chevrolet Camaro LT, as well as the BMW Z4, Audi TT and Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

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2012 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