The 2023 Nissan Z is the long-awaited, highly-anticipated follow-up to the 370Z, which has been on the market since its 2009 debut. In terms of automotive lifecycles, the 370Z was a sports car antique. Thankfully, the all-new Z brings in some much-needed lifeblood into Nissan’s most iconic nameplate.

The styling of the new Z is an evolutionary update to a design steeped in history. With more than 50 years under its belt, the Z remains as familiar as ever. Z enthusiasts will recognize the standard LED headlights as reminiscent of the Japanese domestic market 240ZG, the front fascia features grille fins similar to the original 240Z, the standard LED taillights all but scream 300ZX, and the badging is a nod to the Fairlady Z. The 2023 Nissan Z is Dr. Frankenstein’s monster but without the ghoulish fright.

The new Z will be available in three monotone shades and six two-tone color options. The latter pairs a Super Black rooftop with new exterior hues like Ikazuchi Yellow and Seiran Blue. Interior choices will be limited to just three: black, blue, and red. Standard upholstery is black woven cloth with suede inserts with heated leather seats available.

A new 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 powers the 7th-generation Nissan Z. Output is 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, which is a bump of 68 hp and 80 lb-ft versus the outgoing 370Z. The new Z’s power rating led to speculation that the vehicle would, naturally, but named the 400Z. However, for the first time in U.S. market history, Nissan has dropped the numerical prefix altogether.

The Z will be available in two trims, Sport and Performance. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard on both, with an optional nine-speed automatic. Performance models will also receive the added benefits of a carbon-fiber driveshaft, rev-matching, a limited-slip differential, and launch control, regardless of transmission.

For automatic-transmission-equipped Z cars, two drive modes will be available. The standard mode is best for everyday driving and long commutes while sport mode is engineered to enhance performance settings. This includes faster acceleration control and retuned steering feel and dynamic vehicle control to complement more enthusiastic driving. Zero-to-60 mph times were not released, but Nissan estimates a 15-percent improvement in acceleration.

While new Z might have an old-school vibe, its technology and safety features are very much of this era. Standard is a customizable 12.3-inch digital meter display with three available layouts. An 8-inch infotainment touchscreen is standard as are Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, and hands-free messaging. Available on Performance models is a 9-inch display with navigation as well as a Bose sound system and wi-fi hotspot.

A long list of standard safety features includes adaptive cruise control, a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, forward-collision warning, and front and rear parking sensors.

According to the automaker, the 2023 Nissan Z is expected to arrive in dealerships next spring and is estimated to start at “around $40,000.” At launch, a limited-edition Proto Spec model will also be available.

Based on the Z Proto concept and building off of the Z Performance trim, this vehicle will be limited to 240 units in the U.S. The Z Proto Spec will have distinctive features like yellow brake calipers, bronze-colored alloy wheels, yellow-accented leather seats, contrast stitching, and an exclusive manual shifter.