Next-Generation Nissan Z Sports Car to Get Targa Roof, Hybrid Power?

[RJF]

http://blog.caranddriver.com/next-ge...-hybrid-power/


A report citing unnamed sources has appeared on the Australian website Motoring.com.au purporting to reveal new details on Nissan’s next-generation Z sports car, and the info is interesting, to say the least. First off, the coupe version of the new Z will get a T-top or targa-roof arrangement, while the roadster will move from its current soft-top lid to a power-folding hardtop. As we’ve reported, a Mercedes-sourced turbocharged four-cylinder and a six-cylinder are expected, but Motoring adds that both powertrains will be hybridized and turbocharged. That is where the info gets a bit fuzzy.
You see, our intel suggests that Nissan will use an evolution of the current 370Z’s rear-drive platform for the new Z, instead of designing a newer, smaller, lighter one to take on the likes of the Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S twins. This means that weight savings will be paramount to maintaining the Z’s performance (especially when equipped with the turbo four) while also squeezing better fuel economy from the six-cylinder car. Adding a hybrid system to both engines will not only increase the car’s price, but add pounds to its curb weight, neither of which jibes with Nissan’s Z agenda as we know it.

On the other hand, we could see Nissan moving toward a targa roof style, if for no other reason than to add a “wow” feature to help the car stand out against the new Ford Mustang, Chevrolet’s Camaro, and the upcoming Hyundai Genesis coupe replacement. We’ll find out what’s what when the new Z arrives next year—probably as a 2016 model—but consider us skeptical that it’ll be hybridized.