2021 Nissan Z Proto Officially Teased Ahead Of September 15 Debut

Contrary to a report published by Auto Express stating the next Z car wouldn't debut until late 2022, Nissan has officially announced the 370Z replacement will be unveiled in two weeks from today. Debuting September 15, the sports car will adopt the Z Proto moniker... or will it? "Proto" could have something to do with a prototype, much like 2001 Skyline GT-R Proto previewed the production-ready R35. If that's the case, we won't actually get to see the final version of the Z car as Nissan could unveil a near-production prototype.

To ease the wait, Nissan has dropped a new teaser image of its rear-wheel-drive coupe, although it doesn't reveal much. The LED lighting signature was originally previewed at the end of May, along with the silhouette of the much-awaited Toyota Supra / BMW Z4 competitor. The company isn't willing to go into any details for now, only saying the car is "reawakening the Power of Z with the new Nissan Z Proto, combining 50 years of passion and heritage with modern technology."

The brief video attached above takes a stroll down memory lane by rekindling with previous Z models while looking towards the future with the updated "Z" logo. As a refresher, Nissan is updating its corporate logo as well as the Nismo badge as it enters an ambitious four-year plan dubbed "Nissan Next: From A to Z" to get back on track.

While official details regarding the technical specifications remain shrouded in mystery, the next Z is expected to be heavily based on the 370Z rather than an all-new development. It could have as much as 400 horsepower or even more in Nismo specification courtesy of a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 adapted from the Infiniti Q60 Red Sport 400.

It is believed Nissan has plans to sell the Z Proto with a choice between a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic transmission, but that remains to be seen. Inside, expect a significantly improved cabin with better materials and up-to-date technology.