Nissan’s Decision To Offer A Manual Gearbox On The 2023 Z Proves That Stick Shift Isn’t Dead Just Yet

The 2023 Z packs 400 horsepower from its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine. However, the biggest talking point about the new Z is its manual gearbox. Yes, you heard that right. Nissan will offer a six-speed stick shift with its new Z. But, why exactly is Nissan giving us a manual you ask?

Industry trends indicate that the stick shift is about to go extinct with fewer and fewer cars offering the option for a manual transmission. Despite this, manual transmissions are still sold in many markets around the world. However, according to a survey done by CNBC in 2019, less than two-percent of cars that sold in the U.S. that year had a manual transmission. At the other end of the spectrum, diehard enthusiasts have been yearning for cars with a manual gearbox.

So, in an age where the manual is about to go extinct, Nissan is taking a bold step. Why? Well, the answer to that question is simple. It is to keep the loyalists and fans of the Z brand, happy. You see, the Z brand has a strong following the world over and Nissan wants to offer a car that not only lends an air of fresh air in a market that’s going EV crazy, but also stay true to what the Z brand is all about. Well, it’s all about the drive, isn’t it?

According to Nissan’s CEO, Ashwani Gupta, the Z has always represented a car that is accessible to the masses since the first Z was introduced back in the 70s. In essence, what this new Z really is, is a fantastic successor to the 370 Z that was on the market for nearly a decade. The old car, despite its age, already did the basics right, which included a really good and compelling experience from behind the wheel. But, where it really fell short of its competitors was in terms of technology and this new Z has now addressed that issue.

The Z is a no-nonsense and honest sportscar. It has always been a true driver’s car and is now offering enthusiasts and loyalists, a chance to experience the thrill of a manual yet again, but this time in a modern package. Remember that you ride in an automatic, whereas with a manual, you DRIVE. Many enthusiasts still consider stick shift as an art form, that puts you - the driver - in ultimate control of the vehicle. The disappearance of the manual transmission will most likely alienate a small but devoted portion of shoppers who remain a vital ingredient of American car culture. It is this small but loyal audience that Nissan is targeting with the new Z.