Nissan 370Z: Nissan 370Z

A new performance hero could be in the making with Nissan's 370Z. Big-engined coupes, especially those minus a premium badge, may be struggling a bit at the moment but an all-new model like this is still destined to attract a hardcore fanbase.

While it is broadly similar to the outgoing 350Z - no bad thing, considering it has reigned as our favourite coupe for several years - there are plenty of tweaks to ensure it should be a different animal to drive. The V6 engine grows to 3.7 litres, increasing power and torque to 326bhp and 270lb ft in the process.

There are two gearbox options - a standard six-speed manual, or a brand-new seven-speed paddle shift auto that should appeal to the Zed's key US market (hence the LA Auto Show launch...). The manual also gets a trick 'synchro rev control' feature that blips the throttle during changes to make the whole process smoother. It can be turned off, though.

The 370Z's 2550mm wheelbase is 100mm shorter than the 350's, while the car's overall length is down 70mm to 4250mm. The width and track are up, making the car squatter and more composed in both style and dynamics.

There's also a near-100kg cut in weight to 1466kg, which mated to the hike in power should ensure a lovely drop from the 350Z's 5.5sec dash to 60mph while top speed is likely to stay at a pegged-back 155mph.

Nissan has described the Zed as 'respectful but not retro', hoping the evolved looks (complete with shades of both 240Z and GT-R, a very diverse mix) keep the new car in the hearts of a lot of petrolheads. Like us, in fact... and we drive the 370Z in next month's issue, out on December 10.