The 2007 Nissan 350Z gets a new VQ engine this year, but it only boosts the horsepower by six. The 3.5-liter V6 now hits 306-hp and is coupled with either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Sitting low on 18-inch wheels, the sports car comes as either a coupe or convertible in seven different trims. Both styles are offered as Enthusiast, Touring, or Grand Touring, with the requisite bumps in standard features and performance. The coupe also comes in a base model 6MT. The curvy little 2007 350Z also gets a new hood and more airbags on convertible models. Standard features include ABS brakes, power windows, locks, and mirrors, and air conditioning. Traction control and dual front airbags are standard only on Touring and Grand Touring trims. The Enthusiast adds power seats and a glass rear window with defrost and wind-block in convertible models. Touring trims have luxurious heated leather seats. The Grand Touring offers larger wheels and front and rear spoilers. A specially tuned performance model, the GT-S, has hit the show circuit at 382-hp, but was designed with commercial use in mind, and may well yet get beyond the concept stage.
Great noise and terrific speeds are this sports car's obvious highlights. At 0-60 in under six seconds, it's a blast to drive. Handling is rated highly, as is acceleration power. A tiny trunk and poorly designed cupholders are minor tradeoffs. The doors are heavy, and combined with the low seats, makes it hard to get in and out.