The first Z car – the 240Z – was introduced back in 1971 and continues to hold legendary status. In its first major redesign since it returned to America in 2003, the 370Z is completely new inside, outside and under the skin.

The dimensions have been changed for the new 370Z  - the wheelbase is almost four inches shorter; the overall length is reduced by 2.7 inches while the width has been increased by 1.3 inches. All this combines to give the 370Z a more aggressive stance.

As indicated by the name, the new Z car gets a larger 3.7-liter V6 engine, replacing the 3.5-liter of the 350Z. The new engine is rated at 332 horsepower with 270 lb-ft of torque. Along with its larger displacement, the new engine is designed to deliver better power all the way to redline with improved low-end power and more high-end torque.

Two new high-tech transmissions are available – a 6-speed manual and 7-speed automatic. The manual utilizes an industry-first synchronized downshift rev matching system that automatically controls and adjusts engine speed when shifting to the exact speed of the next gear position, essentially “blipping” the throttle to smooth out any up/down shifts.

“The SynchroRev Match system takes nothing away from the driver – you still have to engage the clutch and move the shifter – it just gives you a performance edge by smoothing out the gear engagement,” said Al Castignetti, vice president, Sales, Nissan Division, Nissan North America Inc.

While the 370Z gets the benefit of more power and better performance, it also boasts improved fuel economy – estimated fuel consumption is 18 city/26 hwy.

Still an impressive value, the 370Z will start at $29,930 when it goes on sale in January 2009.

Nissan Cube

The Cube has been on sale in Japan for 10 years but has never been sold in America until now. This third-generation Cube not only made its debut here in America, it was also shown in Europe and Japan today.

More than just a box on wheels, the Cube features an asymmetric design with a wraparound window on the right rear. Not only is this a unique design element but it’s functional, improving visibility for the driver.

Small on the outside, the Cube is surprisingly roomy on the inside. Rear seats offer plenty of legroom with seating available for three. These seats recline and can also be slid forward or back to increase passenger or cargo space. Access to the spacious cargo area is via a left-hinged door that provides a large opening but might make use of the cargo area difficult if backed in to a tight parking spot.

“With its unique blend of fashion and function, Cube imagines a life less ordinary,” said Castignetti. “Cube is as much of a mobile device as it is an automobile, something that enhances life like people’s digital devices do. Cube is a vehicle that people of all ages can fall in love with, even when they don’t love cars.”

Cube will be powered by 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower. Teamed with either Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) or a 6-speed manual transmission, the Cube is expected to achieve more than 30 mpg on the highway.

The Cube is expected to arrive in showrooms next spring.

Inexpensive Versa

Nissan also announced the introduction of a new version of the economical Versa. The Versa 1.6 features a fuel-efficient 1.6-liter engine that gets 34 mpg on the highway. Priced at just $9,990, the Versa 1.6 is now the least expensive vehicle in America.