A nostalgia-driven concept blends open-air driving, modern performance, and 1990s tuner culture
Nashville, 24 September 2026 – Some sports cars are remembered for their speed, while others become part of car culture because of the emotions they create behind the wheel. Nissan is bringing that spirit back with the new Z Kaze concept, unveiled at ZCON 2026, the annual gathering of the Z Car Club Association. The concept celebrates the heritage of seven generations of Nissan Z sports cars while adding a fresh interpretation of open-air driving.
The name Kaze comes from the Japanese word for wind, an idea that is central to the concept. Its most distinctive feature is a custom-engineered T-top roof designed to give drivers and passengers a stronger connection with the road and surroundings. Nissan says the concept was created by a team of product planners and designers as a passion project inspired by a drive along California’s Pacific Coast Highway.
The exterior combines classic sports car influences with styling associated with 1990s tuner culture. The concept wears a Pacific Teal paint finish and features a lightweight vented carbon fiber hood, wider fender flares, and a custom carbon fiber aerodynamic body kit. These changes give the Z Kaze a broader and more aggressive appearance while retaining the familiar shape of the Nissan Z.
The wheels provide another link to Nissan’s performance heritage. The concept uses restored 18-inch NISMO LMGT2 wheels, a forged multi-piece design known among enthusiasts for its motorsports connection. Nissan sourced an original set that had been out of production and restored them specifically for the concept. The front wheels measure 10 inches wide, while the rear wheels measure 11 inches wide.
Inside, the Z Kaze takes a different approach from the dark interiors commonly seen in performance concepts. White leather-appointed seats create a brighter cabin and complement the open roof design. Carbon fiber trim adds a sporty touch, while Bose Personal Plus headrest speakers are designed to provide an immersive audio experience when the roof is removed.
Performance remains an important part of the concept. The Z Kaze uses the Nissan Z’s twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine and adds selected components from performance tuning company GReddy. These include a SUPREME SP exhaust system, a front mount air to air intercooler kit, and an Airinx air filter kit. The suspension has also been upgraded with NISMO components.
The concept reflects a broader effort by Nissan to connect the current Z with its long history. The 2027 Nissan Z already includes several heritage-inspired design details, including a revised grille influenced by the original S30 generation, new wheels inspired by the 300ZX, and a new Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic exterior color.
The Z Kaze will be displayed at ZCON in Phoenix through September 26 before moving to the Japanese Classic Car Show on October 3. Nissan has clarified that the Z Kaze is a concept vehicle and is not available for purchase.
Rather than simply looking backward, the Z Kaze shows how automotive heritage can be reinterpreted for a new generation. By combining open-air driving, modern engineering, performance upgrades, and the visual language of classic tuner culture, Nissan has created a concept that places the emotional side of sports car ownership at the center of its design.
