Retro cues that elevate the next-gen.
Nissan recently unveiled a new concept at the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon dubbed the Fairlady Z Customized Proto, and simply put, it elevates the styling of the next-gen Z car to a new level thanks to several retro-inspired cues.
The Nissan Fairlady Z Customized Proto is a one-off concept intended to gauge interest in possible future accessories, and was designed as a tribute to the ultra-rare, ultra-valuable 1970 homologation special known as the Fairlady Z 432R.
To that end, the Nissan Fairlady Z Customized Proto incorporates a classic orange paint job, as well as 19-inch Watanabe-style wheels finished in black.
Black accents were also applied to the hood, as was black striping in the flanks. White "Nissan Z" lettering was added to the tire sidewalls, which sit under a set of beefed-up fenders.
However, it's the front end of this concept that really does it for us, bisecting the large rectangular intake and reshaping the bumper, while also adding a tasteful carbon fiber lower lip.
Not that the 2023 Nissan Z is necessarily ugly. Tuner Fan had an opportunity to get up close and personal to the new Z at a pop-up car meet hosted by Auto Conduct in Los Angeles, and the profile looks fantastic. The rear three-quarters - even better.
Unfortunately, the front end of the 2023 Nissan Z doesn't quite cut it for us. It's just a bit too plain, a bit too yawning for our taste.
By contrast, we think the Nissan Fairlady Z Customized Proto ties it all together perfectly.
Unfortunately, the Fairlady Z Proto remains a one-off, at least for now. That said, rumor has it Nissan may consider commercializing components of the concept following the positive response it got at this year's Tokyo Auto Salon. Here's to hoping that front end gets the green light.
As a reminder, the 2023 Nissan Z debuted in the U.S. in August, and comes equipped with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 producing 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Output is direct rearwards through either a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic. Pricing starts around $40,000.
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