The updates to the 350Z reinforce its credentials as a pure sports car with thrilling and involving performance and a more dynamic driving experience.

At the heart of the 2007 model year 350Z is Nissan’s award winning next generation engine - designated VQ35HR - with nearly 80 percent of major parts redesigned it provides improved acceleration and overall power for enhanced driving pleasure. Maximum power output has risen from 221 kW to 230 kW on the back of the changes to the engine. Peak torque output has also increased from 353 Nm to 358 Nm and the maximum engine speed has also increased by 500 rpm to 7,500 rpm.

To achieve the additional performance, a dual intake system has been fitted and the variable valve timing system has a wider range of operation, plus the addition of a common length exhaust manifold reduces back pressure. Those changes combine to boost low and mid-range torque.

In order to achieve the higher rev limit, the crank journal and crank pin have increased in size. At the bottom of the engine, a ladder frame has been added to stiffen the crank and reduce vibration.

The introduction of a second knock sensor, an asymmetric piston pattern, improved cylinder cooling and iridium spark plugs will combine to improve the efficiency of the ignition cycle, while an increase in compression ratio from 10.3 to 10.6 has liberated more top end power. Despite all these changes, weight and fuel consumption remain unchanged, but the engine’s centre of gravity has been lowered by 15 mm.

To accommodate the new engine the bonnet has been discreetly redesigned and is now reminiscent of the first generation 240Z, thanks to a stylish ‘power bulge’.

Three new exterior colours will also be offered. Solar Orange is a striking shade but also contains a subtle green “flip” which can be seen in soft light and gives the car a surprising tone, while a new grey – Carbon Silver - and San Marino Blue complete the colour line-up. On the inside, there are larger head restraints with active restraints, to minimise the chances of neck injury in the event of a rear impact.

Standard features include composite carbon-fibre drive shaft, traction control system, viscous limited-slip rear differential, electronic drive-by-wire throttle, dual outlet exhaust and vehicle dynamic control (VDC) on Track variants. An optional five-speed automatic transmission with manual mode and Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) is available on all automatic variants.

Independent multi-link suspension front and rear with a front strut tower brace and an integrated rear strut tower brace combined with front and rear stabiliser bars guarantees sure-footed handling and dynamics.

All models wear 18-inch six-spoke aluminium alloy wheels with upgraded Bridgestone Potenza tyres for 2007 for increased on-road refinement.

Standard interior features include heated leather sports seats, automatic climate control air-conditioning, Bose 240 watt sound system with seven speakers including a sub-woofer, power windows and heated exterior door mirrors, steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls and a three-bay gauge cluster for oil pressure, voltmeter and trip computer.

Pricing on the 2007 model year 350Z Coupe now starts at $62,990* and $67,990* (manual models), while the Roadster is now available for $73,990*. On models with an optional automatic transmission the price increases by $2,000.