When enthusiasts speak of the fifth-generation Nissan Z-car, the 2020 370Z remains the definitive model year for analog driving purity. As the swan song for the iconic 370Z, this specific year represents the peak of a lineage that prioritized sharp handling, naturally aspirated feedback, and aggressive styling over the comfort and technology found in contemporary sports cars. Understanding the 2020 370Z configurations requires looking at how this final chapter was offered to the market, catering to both the budget-conscious newcomer and the driver seeking the highest level of performance and luxury the model had to offer.
The Core Powertrain: Defining the Driving Experience
At the heart of every 2020 370Z lies the same legendary powerplant, a testament to Nissan’s engineering philosophy for this generation. The base configuration is built around a 3.7-liter VQ37VHR V6 engine, producing 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. This naturally aspirated powerplant is mated to either a standard six-speed manual transmission or an available seven-speed automated manual. While the base model provides an engaging and accessible entry point, the true soul of the 370Z is unleashed with the optional Performance Upgrade Package, which includes a limited-slip differential and firmer suspension settings to better harness the power delivered to the rear wheels.
Trim Level Differentiation: Base, Enthusiast, and Track
For the 2020 model year, Nissan structured the 370Z lineup into three distinct trim levels, each designed to target a specific buyer intent. The journey begins with the Base model, which focuses on providing the core driving dynamics at a competitive price point. Stepping up, the Enthusiast trim acts as the sweet spot, adding significant value through enhanced comfort and technology features. At the pinnacle sits the Track model, a no-frills weapon for the dedicated enthusiast who prioritizes performance and handling above all else.
Exterior and Interior Styling: Aggression Meets Function
The visual identity of the 2020 370Z is a masterclass in aggressive yet timeless design language. The coupe’s long hood and short overhangs create a predatory stance, while the distinctive LED headlamps and V-motion grille demand attention. Depending on the trim, the exterior treatment ranges from the relatively subdued steel wheels on the Base model to the high-gloss black and carbon fiber accents found on the Track trim. Inside, the cockpit is a driver-focused environment, bolstered by supportive seats that cradle the occupant during spirited maneuvers. The shift knob remains the physical connection to the mechanical heart of the car, offering precise gear changes that define the Z-car experience.
