The 2026 Nissan Z brings the iconic Midnight Purple color and bronze accents to the limited Heritage Edition. Although it's just a visual refresh, this Z is a feast for the eyes - and the soul - of fans of the legendary series.
The Nissan Z is like an old friend that keeps coming back in a new, shinier guise, with the same charm we love. The 2026 model year brings the Nissan Z 2026 Heritage Edition, which features its iconic color Midnight Purple and bronze details breathe the spirit of the legendary GT-R. Without technical innovations, with the right color and retro accessories, this Z steals the heart – and maybe even the wallet.
Iconic color and retro details
Nissan Z 2026 Heritage Edition revives Midnight Purple, a color made famous on the GT-R R33 and R34. This deep, purple-blue color that changes shades depending on the light is only available on the mid-level Performance trim. In addition to the color, the package adds 19-inch RAYS bronze wheels that are reminiscent of the classic 300ZX, a carbon fiber rear spoiler with retro lettering Twin Turbo and bronze graphics on the sides that scream 90s. The interior is complemented by unique sills and special floor mats that tell the driver every time they open the door that this is something special.
“The Nissan Z Heritage Edition is like a time machine that takes you back to the golden years of JDM, with a modern twist,” says Anthony Alaniz in a review on Motor1.
The heart of the Z: Twin-turbo V6 power
There are no surprises under the hood of the Nissan Z 2026 Heritage Edition, but we don't need any. The Nissan Z 2026 is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 that produces 298 kW (400 hp) and 475 Nm (350 lb-ft) of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is not officially stated, but based on previous models, we expect a time of around 4.5 seconds. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h (155 mph), which is more than enough for off-road adventures. There is a six-speed manual transmission for purists and a nine-speed automatic, which is surprisingly quick and smooth.
Equipment: From Sport to Nismo
The 2026 Nissan Z Heritage Edition is available in three trim levels. The base Sport trim includes an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a leather steering wheel, and 18-inch wheels with Yokohama ADVAN Sport tires. Pricing starts at $44,215 (including $1,245 in delivery fees). The mid-level Performance trim adds a mechanical differential lock, more powerful brakes, a Bose audio system, heated mirrors, and aluminum pedals. Available here Heritage Edition for an additional $2,940, while the base Performance model is priced at $54,215. For those who want more, the Nismo offers 313 kW (420 hp) and 520 Nm (384 lb-ft) of torque, along with wider wheels, a tuned suspension, and Recaro seats. Unfortunately, the Nismo is only available with an automatic transmission, but Nissan boss Christian Meunier has hinted that a manual transmission is coming for the Nismo. The Nismo is priced at $66,996.
What's new for 2026
Besides Heritage Edition Nissan introduces a new color Boulder Gray with a black roof contrast option, available on Sport and Performance. Standard two-tone colors cost an additional $895, while premium is $1,295. The base color upgrade on Sport and Performance is priced at $450. Nissan promises that the first 2026 Zs will arrive in dealerships by the end of September 2025.
Z's legacy
The Nissan Z is a legend that dates back to 1969 with the Datsun 240Z. Each generation – from the 260Z to the 350Z and its current successor, the 370Z – has retained the soul of an affordable sports car. Heritage Edition with a touch of GT-R and 300ZX, it is a tribute to this heritage that continues to delight fans around the world today.
Conclusion: The King of Accessible Athletes?
Nissan Z 2026 with Heritage Edition proves that you don't have to reinvent the wheel to create something exciting. Midnight Purple and bronze details are a love letter to JDM enthusiasts, while the twin-turbo V6 and manual transmission ensure the Z remains a true driver's car. With a starting price of $44,215, it offers a lot for its money, Heritage Edition but for $2,940 it adds that something that separates the ordinary from the iconic. Compared to the Toyota GR Supra or the Mazda MX-5, the Z offers a unique blend of power, style and nostalgia. And the announcement of a manual transmission for the Nismo is the icing on the cake. The 2026 Nissan Z isn't just a car - it's a statement. And what a statement!
