2010 Nissan 370Z Roadster debuts at NY auto show

The 370Z Coupe is due in the GCC sometime in August, but the 370Z Roadster, with a convertible soft-top roof, is all set to debut at the 2009 New York Auto Show.

The powered convertible top is concealed beneath a full body-colour hard tonneau cover, which extends forward to help create a “double cockpit” style interior. The standard black cloth convertible top features a fabric inner liner to help reduce noise intrusion into the cabin, along with an enlarged glass rear window with an integrated electric rear window defroster. The top operation takes approximately 20 seconds start-to-finish. The automatic latch system secures the top to the windshield header without driver intervention. The shape and position of the glass wind deflector, located between the fixed headrest bars, has been optimized to reduce turbulence into the cabin.

Like the new 370Z Coupe, the Z Roadster’s new exterior is more aggressive in appearance and lighter and tighter in structure than the previous generation. The wheelbase is around 10 cm shorter and overall length is reduced by 6 cm. The new Z Roadster features an aluminium hood, door panels and trunk for reduced weight. At the same time, the body structure was extensively revised to improve rigidity and stability. The 370Z Roadster includes additional structural reinforcement over the 370Z Coupe, including in the A-pillars and side sills.

As for the engine, Roadster or Coupe, the new Z has a standard 332 hp 3.7-litre DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control (VVEL), 366 Nm of torque at 5200 rpm, choice of 7-speed automatic transmission or close-ratio 6-speed manual with available “SynchroRev Match” to match revs on downshifts, 4-wheel independent suspension and 4-wheel vented disc brakes, with optional “Nissan Sport Brakes.”

The standard 370Z Roadster features 18-inch alloy wheels. Available as part of the optional Sport Package are 19-inch RAYS forged lightweight aluminium-alloy wheels with wider tyres. The Sport Package also adds Nissan Sport Brakes, SynchroRev Match for the manual and Viscous Limited Slip Differential. A Navigation Package adds Hard Drive-based Nissan Navigation System, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive and USB connectivity. Features such as HID headlights, intelligent keyless entry and start, curtain airbags and stability control are all standard.

It is unknown whether the 370Z will come to the UAE or other GCC countries.