Nissan is shifting production of the Z sports car to a build-to-order system to avoid overstocking dealerships. The automaker initially produced too many vehicles, leading to heavy discounts to clear inventory. Now, Nissan plans to align production closely with actual customer demand, meaning dealers will receive very few allocations – potentially as low as three cars per dealership on average.
Production Changes and Customer Demand
The move to a tailored production model is designed to minimize unsold vehicles sitting on dealer lots. Nissan stated it wants to ensure each Z reflects what the customer wants, with the 2027 model year featuring updates like a refreshed design and the highly sought-after Nismo manual transmission. The automaker will work closely with its dealer network to manage expectations and deliveries.
The Nismo Manual: The Hardest Z to Get
Enthusiasts eager for the Nismo Z with a six-speed manual gearbox should act fast. While some reports claim it’s already sold out, the reality is allocations have been distributed to dealerships. Given extremely low production numbers and high demand, expect significant dealer markups.
“Nissan is taking a more tailored production approach with Z to better align with customer demand,” said Nissan. “This strategy supports sustainable inventories while ensuring each vehicle reflects what the customer truly wants.”
What This Means
Nissan’s decision reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry: manufacturers are prioritizing exclusivity and scarcity to drive demand. This model works by making cars harder to obtain, creating a sense of urgency. While some buyers may face inflated prices, Nissan appears willing to accept this in exchange for a more controlled sales cycle. The green-over-tan color option on the Z Nismo is a standout feature worth considering if you can secure one.
If you’re serious about owning a 2027 Nissan Z Nismo with a manual transmission, contacting your local dealer immediately is crucial. Production will be severely constrained, so acting now is the only way to avoid missing out entirely.
