Nissan Z Gets a Facelift for 2027 With New Grille, Suspension Tuning, and Bold Green Color

The Fairlady Z in Japan offers an early look at what’s next for Nissan’s iconic sports coupe.

Barely a few years into its current generation, the Nissan Z is already receiving a light but meaningful update. Revealed in Japan under its traditional Fairlady Z name, the refreshed model previews the changes likely heading to global markets, including a probable U.S. launch as a 2027 model.

What’s New at a Glance

• Revised two-piece front grille design

• New “Unryu Green” exterior paint option

• Retuned suspension setup

• Upgraded braking hardware, especially on Nismo variants

Cleaner Face, Sharper Presence

One of the most noticeable changes is right up front. The large single-piece grille has been replaced with a more refined two-section layout. A slim upper intake with horizontal detailing now sits above a wider lower opening, divided by a body-colored panel. The result is a front end that looks lower, wider, and more cohesive—likely a welcome improvement for buyers who found the original design a bit heavy-handed.

Adding to the visual upgrade is a striking new paint option called Unryu Green, a modern reinterpretation of Nissan’s classic Grand Prix Green. It’s paired with fresh 19-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels that give the Z a more purposeful stance without straying from its retro-inspired roots.

Light Touch Inside

Interior changes are minimal, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Nissan has introduced a new light-tan leather upholstery option to brighten up the cabin, but the overall layout and design remain familiar. The focus here is clearly on refinement rather than reinvention.

More Than Just Looks

Beneath the skin, Nissan has made several mechanical improvements. The suspension has been recalibrated with revised dampers featuring larger pistons, aimed at delivering better body control and sharper responses in spirited driving. Braking performance also gets a boost, with larger hardware fitted—most notably on the performance-oriented Nismo version.

Market Timing

Sales in Japan are expected to begin first, likely in mid-2026. Nissan has not formally confirmed U.S. availability, but industry timing suggests the updated Z could arrive later that year as a 2027 model.

Final Thoughts

The Nissan Z didn’t need a dramatic overhaul, and thankfully, it didn’t get one. This refresh focuses on tightening the design, adding character with a standout new color, and improving the driving experience where it counts. If Nissan brings this version stateside quickly, enthusiasts will have plenty to look forward to.