2008 Nissan 350z [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 52 350Z reviews and test drives.
Nissan 350z - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Nissan 350z ranks 3 out of 10 Affordable Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 52 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan 350z, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 350Z ranks in the top half of its class because of its superb delivery of neck-snapping acceleration, responsive handling and head-turning design. Altogether, the 2008 350Z proves to be an excellent choice for anyone in the market for an Affordable Sports Car.
With the exception of a new exterior color, Nogaro Red, the 2008 Nissan 350Z remains largely the same as it was in 2007 -- which reviewers find to be a high-performance sports car with impressive power and handling, a stylish exterior and reassuring crash test scores. "Combining thrilling performance with civilized comfort, the Nissan 350Z Coupe is a worthy contender among many rougher and costlier sports cars," writes Forbes
While the Z leaves test drivers aghast with its thrilling sports performance and sleek design, many still complain about its subpar interior materials and a lack of cargo space. These criticisms, however, are minor considering all the Z has to offer.
The 350Z is available in five trims -- base 350Z, Enthusiast, Touring, Grand Touring and high-performance NISMO -- and receives awards for both ownership cost and retained value.
- "Not only does it keep up with the Mustang [2007 Ford Mustang Shelby GT] in a straight line, but it also beats" the 2007 Mazda RX-8 and 2008 Audi TT 2.0T "thanks to the best power-to-weight ratio and tenacious grip." -- Car and Driver
- + "[T]he latest 350Z successfully draws on its heritage and roots without being a simple recreation of the original. And, boy, is it fun to drive!" -- Detroit News
- + "It is a Z that pays homage to but doesn't copy its predecessors, a sports car that comes with plenty of power, striking looks and lots of people space (luggage space is another matter) at a price that, by today's standards, is downright affordable." -- Los Angeles Times
350Z Performance - 9.0 (Excellent)
Marked by quick acceleration and responsive handling, the 350Z is a strong contender within its class. In fact, its performance attributes rank near the top of its class. Altogether, New Car Test Drive describes it as a "fast, fun, and pure sports car." Continue with our full 350Z Performance Review to learn how quick it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. continue
350Z Exterior - 7.2 (Good)
The Nissan 350Z has a head-turning design that earns raves. A reviewer for the Washington Post calls it "a clear winner in the looks department," reporting, "I've driven numerous other new vehicles that mostly went ignored on the highway and at rest stops. That was not the case with this one." Even so, the 350Z's exterior design ranks low within its class -- as many of its competitors are considered even more attractive. Continue with our full 350Z Exterior Review to read about how the NISMO trim differs from the base model, or go to the 2008 350Z Photo Gallery and see it for yourself. continue
350Z Interior - 7.5 (Good)
The 350Z's interior cabin is praised for its comfort, but criticized for what some reviewers believe are low-quality materials. While reviewers such as Forbes like the "stylish cockpit" that "welcomes two average-size adults," other reviewers, such as USA Today, complain that it "lacks the rich materials you expect in a premium sports car." Still, the 350Z's interior ranks in the top half of its class. Continue with our full 350Z Interior Review to learn about its lack of a glovebox and alternative storage spaces, or go to the 2008 350Z Photo Gallery and judge its design for yourself. continue
350Z Safety - 8.9 (Very Good)
The 350Z performs well in government crash tests -- earning four out of five stars in front crash tests and five stars in side crash tests. Though the Z features a wide range of standard and optional safety equipment, test drivers express concern over the base trim's lack of Traction Control and Vehicle Dynamic Control. Still, the 350Z ranks high in its class within the safety category. Continue with our full 350Z Safety Review to learn which active and passive safety features will cost you extra cash. continue
350Z Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Nissan 350z reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Nissan offers competitive warranty coverage on all of its cars, including a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full 350Z Reliability Review to learn about its competitive powertrain warranty. continue
