Nissan prices its 2027 Z NISMO with a six-speed manual transmission at under $69,000 despite across-the-board price increases. The manual and automatic versions cost the same, a move that rewards drivers who still want to row their own gears.

The NISMO variant sits atop the Z lineup, delivering 400 horsepower from its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6. Nissan's decision to price both transmissions identically matters for enthusiasts. Most manufacturers charge premiums for stick shifts or discontinue them entirely. Nissan bucks that trend by charging the same $69K baseline regardless of transmission choice.

All 2027 Z models see a $1,460 price bump across the board. The entry-level Sport starts around $42,000, while the NISMO climbs to that sub-$69K figure. Those increases reflect inflation and new standard equipment. Nissan bundles in a revised infotainment system and updated safety tech on all trims.

The manual transmission itself carries weight in the sports car world. Nissan offers a traditional clutch-pedal experience with rev-matching technology that blends driver control with modern refinement. The six-speed transmission pairs well with the turbocharged engine's power delivery, letting drivers maximize the 383 pound-feet of torque.

Competition shapes this pricing strategy. The Chevrolet Corvette starts higher but offers more power and a mid-engine layout. The Toyota Supra costs less but lacks a manual option entirely. The BMW Z4 adds luxury amenities at a steeper price. Nissan positions the Z between affordable sports car thrills and entry-level luxury performance, and offering no manual penalty underscores that positioning.

For buyers, this means zero financial disincentive to choosing