Nissan is busy reworking its signature sports car for 2009, and our latest set of illustrations gives you an early look at the changes. Clearly this will be an evolutionary design that softens some of the harder edges of the current model.
According to our source, one of the bigger changes will be a wider track, that will necessitate extended wheel flares front and rear. Up front, the 2009 350Z will also get a slimmer look, with a less upright airdam and smaller headlight clusters. The windshield might get relaxed a degree or two, but the 350Z's instantly identifiable silhouette will remain as will the hatchback rear end.
Mechanically, the 2009 350Z isn't expected to change much. The overall suspension design will stay, although its tuning may get softened a notch or two to make it more livable. With one of the best V6s in the world already under the hood you can bet that aspect of the 350Z won't change, but look for Nissan to bump horsepower to around 325.
Much of the criticism of the current model revolves around the cabin. Nissan already made one round of upgrades which helped in the materials department, but look for the next-generation model to go even further. Convenience features like more storage and softer armrests may be added despite the Z's reputation as a serious sports car.
With Nissan already gearing up to introduce the new Skyline at next fall's Tokyo auto show, the 2009 Nissan 350Z may not make an appearance until early 2008 with sales beginning later that year.
Source : Edmunds.com