Preview: 2009 Nissan 350Z

The Nissan 350Z, or 'Fairlady' as it’s known in Japan, is set to be replaced by an all-new model in 2009 and these new renderings give a good indication as to what to expect for the styling of the new car. The current model has already won numerous accolades around the globe, its combination of a front-engine RWD layout and a torquey V6 motor have won it many fans across the globe and it’s a formula engineers won’t be mucking around with for the new model. Most sources are divided on whether Nissan will go with Infiniti’s new 3.7L V6 engine or stick with the current 3.5L mill, but one thing is widely agreed upon – the ’09 Z will develop up to 350hp.

Recent spy shots of the car at the Nurburgring saw it testing alongside a Porsche Cayman, and this is the model that Nissan engineers are supposedly using as a benchmark for their new sports car. You might recall they did the same thing when testing the new GT-R, only the benchmark was Porsche’s 911 Turbo. Though the 350Z prototype was heavily camouflaged, the outlines of a folding roof could clearly be seen that suggest the new car might be available as a coupe-cabrio.

One aspect designers will be focusing on is the interior, which should be a major improvement over the widely-criticized cabin of the current car. Click here and here to see the renderings.

Thanks to Ignacio for sending in the tip.