Preview: 2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster

Posted Tue Nov 25 2008 2:43 AM by Ralph Hanson

The new 370Z Roadster is expected to be launched one year after the Coupe, which arrives in January 2009

Nissan recently unveiled its all-new 370Z Coupe, which is set to go on sale in January next year, and now we have a computer generated rendering of the Roadster model, which Nissan has previously stated will arrive on the market one year after the Coupe.

In the first full redesign of the iconic Nissan Z since its re-introduction as a 2003 model, nearly every piece and component has been redesigned. This includes a shorter wheelbase, greater use of lightweight body materials, a new engine with more horsepower and improved fuel economy, a new seven-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, a world's first synchronized downshift rev-matching system for the manual transmission, and a greatly improved cabin.

All these changes will make their way onto the Roadster model, which is also expected to carry over a similar automated folding soft-top to the current model.

Under the hood will be the same 3.7L VQ37VHR V6, rated at 332hp (247kW) and 270lb-ft (366Nm) of torque.

In keeping with the ‘affordable performance’ theme of its 350Z predecessor, Nissan will price the new 370Z Roadster only slightly above the Coupe, which in the United States will start at $29,930 (excluding destination charges). The new price represents a $1,420 increase over the 2008 350Z, so expect a similar hike for the Roadster.

Gearbox options will include a six-speed manual with the new "SynchroRev Match" function, as well as a seven-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

Check out our previous story for the Coupe’s debut at last week’s Los Angeles Auto Show for all the technical details.