The Nissan 370Z NISMO started out as a more hardcore version of the standard Z, but it seems to be going more mainstream along with the rest of the NISMO lineup.
For 2015, Nissan added numerous tech options and – gasp – an automatic transmission, and now there’s this.
Unveiled at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show, the Nissan 370Z NISMO Roadster concept is exactly what it sounds like, a preview of what a production NISMO convertible would look like.
The concept features many of the same upgrades from the production 370Z NISMO coupe. That starts with new styling, including a GT-R-esque front fascia with LED daytime running lights, 19-inch Rays alloy wheels, and red accenting.
For the Roadster concept, Nissan added leather-wrapped headrest bars and a carbon-fiber rear spoiler.
Under the hood, the 3.7-liter V6 is tuned to produce 350 horsepower and 276 pound-feet of torque, just like in the production 370Z NISMO. The concept has a seven-speed automatic transmission, but the production version is also available with a six-speed manual.
Other performance upgrades include a strut-tower brace, sportier suspension and brakes, and a limited-slip differential.
The NISMO makeover continues on the inside, with Recaro sport seats trimmed in a mix of black leather with off-white Ultrasuede inserts, an Alcantara and leather three-spoke steering wheel, and red NISMO tachometer.
Nissan says it’s using the Roadster concept to gauge public interest in a production version. Given that it’s basically a topless version of the existing NISMO coupe, putting it in showrooms probably wouldn’t be that difficult.
