We spent a week back-to-back in a 2024 Nissan Z Performance with the 6-speed manual and the optional 9-speed automatic to compare shift logic, launch behavior, rev-matching, and day-to-day livability.
Our test cars used the 400 hp, 350 lb-ft 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (VR30DDTT), Performance trim’s mechanical limited-slip differential, and Bridgestone summer tires (255/40R19 front, 275/35R19 rear). Curb weights were within a suitcase of each other, the auto feeling slightly heavier at the nose. Ambient temps ranged from 58–82°F. Routes included a 46-mile urban commute loop with stop-and-go, a 120-mile highway stint (70–75 mph cruise), and a closed two-mile handling course for repeatable launch and shift timing.
Traction and stability were tested in both Normal and Sport. Fuel used: 93 octane. Shift logic: the 9AT favors early upshifts in Normal, hovering around 1,350–1,700 rpm at city speeds and dropping into 8th/9th quickly on the highway (about 1,800 rpm at 70 mph). In Sport, it holds gears to 4,000+ rpm and executes decisive single-gear downshifts; multi-gear kickdowns take an extra beat but arrive cleanly.
Manual mode honors paddle requests and won’t upshift mid-corner, though it will protect at redline. The 6MT’s linkage is medium-throw with positive gates; slightly notchy when cold, then slick. Crossgate precision is good, with the 2–3 upshift clean under load. Launch behavior: the 9AT’s brake-torque launch with the performance electronics engaged delivered our most consistent sprints—minimal wheelspin and a repeatable initial hit thanks to the torque converter and tight first gear.
The 6MT relies on the driver; best results came from a 2,500–3,000 rpm slip and quick but measured clutch release. Overly aggressive launches heat the clutch and induce axle tramp on imperfect pavement; the LSD helps, but surface quality matters. On the handling course, the auto was 0.3–0.4 sec quicker to 60 mph, mainly from the crisp 1–2. Rev-matching: Nissan’s SynchroRev Match in the manual is excellent—accurate blips even during trail-braking, and easily disabled for heel-and-toe practice.
Throttle response is predictable, with little rev hang once warm. Downshifts feel OEM-clean rather than theatrical. The 9AT’s downshift blips in Sport are well-timed and help stabilize the chassis, but the experience is filtered; you feel the calibration’s competence more than mechanical engagement. Daily drivability: the 9AT is the easier commuter.
Smooth creep, low-speed refinement, and tall cruising gears yield an observed 27 mpg highway and 21 mpg mixed. The manual returns 24 mpg highway and 19 mpg mixed, spinning roughly 2,400 rpm at 70 mph. Clutch weight is medium with linear take-up and hill-start assist preventing rollbacks; stop-and-go is manageable, though the firm pedal and short first gear can tire the left leg in heavy traffic. NVH is similar between both, but the auto runs quieter at cruise.
Overall, choose the 9-speed if you prioritize set-and-forget speed, consistent launches, and traffic serenity; its Sport logic is smart enough for back roads. Opt for the 6MT if engagement matters—rev-matching elevates fluidity, and the car feels more connected on corner entry. Track-day regulars chasing lap times will be quicker and more consistent in the auto; drivers seeking involvement and skill expression will be happier with the manual.
