Summary
Nissan is preparing to sharply restrict 2027 Z allocations, with the average dealer expected to receive two to three vehicles for the model year. According to a leaked dealer presentation reported by The Drive, the company is pivoting to a build-to-order strategy designed to align output with confirmed demand and avoid excess inventory.
Key updates for the 2027 Z
- Front-end redesign
- New Shinkai Green paint option
- Manual transmission added to the high-performance Nismo variant (previously automatic-only)
Why Nissan is making the shift
The Drive reports that Nissan appears to have overproduced the 2024 Z, resulting in dealer lot buildup and heavier incentives once 2025 models arrived. That dynamic helped push 2025 sales to 5,487 units (up from 3,164 in 2024), but it also pressured margins. Executives previously signaled a need to match production closely with demand, noting that mismatched specs can leave cars unsold and require additional incentives.
What the allocation limits mean
- Scarcer inventory: Fewer cars available for immediate purchase from lots; more units tied to customer orders.
- Dealer prioritization: With only two to three units per dealer for the model year, stores may favor filling existing reservations over stocking display models.
- Market positioning: Tighter supply aims to protect pricing and reduce reliance on incentives.
Implications for buyers
- Expect to place an order—especially for specific colors, trims, or the Nismo manual—and be prepared to wait.
- Pricing, order timing, and final allocation plans have not been publicly detailed.
Open questions
- When ordering will begin for the 2027 Z
- How Nissan will distribute limited allocations across its dealer network
- Official pricing and production totals
The reported strategy emphasizes controlled volume, customer-specific builds, and enthusiast-focused updates—particularly the Nismo manual—while aiming to avoid a repeat of past overstocks. Nissan did not immediately comment to The Drive; the outlet said it will update its reporting when the company responds.
