As Nissan continues to build its brand in India, prior to offering a small car of its own, it’s storming into the sports car segment with the introduction of the iconic Z badge in the Indian market – more specifically the menacing 370Z.

With the original Z car, the 240Z in the 70s, Nissan brought affordability and Japanese reliability into the global sports car market, and thereby created a worldwide following. The current 370Z may not be the most affordable car in the market, but it’s known for being a thoroughbred sports car. Classic Z styling elements, such as the long snout and muscular lines, hint at the power that lurks within the engine bay. And the interiors are just as impressive – being driver oriented, yet comfortable enough to make this an everyday sports car. And it has some unique features as well, such as an instrument cluster that moves up and down with the adjustable steering column to ensure that the dials are always within perfect view.

Under the hood is Nissan’s latest iteration of its award winning V6 – a massive 3.7 liter that produces a healthy 328bhp, and 267lb/ft of torque. Sending power to the rear wheels, the 370Z comes with the option of either a 7-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters, or a 6-speed manual, which offers the worlds’ first synchronized downshift rev-matching system for a manual transmission. The 370Z also features a front aluminum sub-frame, aluminum-alloy engine cradle, aluminum doors & bonnet, and an aluminum rear hatch – all of which saves weight, thereby enabling a 0-100km/h acceleration time of under 5.5 seconds. For improved safety, there’s ABS, EBD and Brake Assist to ensure that it stops just as well as it goes.

The two variants of the 370Z, the 6-speed with Synchro Rev Match and 7-speed auto with paddle shifts, are priced at Rs. 53.5 and 54.5 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi) respectively – meaning you won’t see one at every corner, but keep your eyes peeled because it’ll be a great sight when you do come across one on the road.