Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Nissan Z
Our scoring places the 2023 Nissan Z at 7.7/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this sports. Its strongest dimension is Performance at 9.0/10, while Safety at 7.3/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We score reliability at 7.3/10 — better than most direct rivals, if short of the segment's best. The safety score of 7.3/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance is a genuine highlight at 9.0/10. The Nissan Z delivers engaging driving dynamics — responsive handling, meaningful power delivery, and a drivetrain that rewards spirited driving without sacrificing daily usability. Tech rates a reasonable 7.6/10: the essentials are covered and well executed, but rivals at the same price often include more as standard.
Priced from $41,680–$52,303, 21 MPG, seating 2, the Nissan Z sits in the mid-market bracket of the sports segment. The 7.4/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2023 Nissan Z is a solid, well-rounded sports that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sportss
The 2023 Nissan Z ranks #154 of 316 sportss in the Carivo database — better than 52% of the segment. Its 7.7/10 overall score is exactly at the segment average of 7.7/10. Its $41,680 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $46,090 by about 10%.
Across the Z model years we've scored, the 2023 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Fuel economy at 21 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
NHTSA Recalls — 2023 Nissan Z (2 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Structure / Body / Bumpers 26/10/2023 · 23V725000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Nissan Z vehicles. The fasteners in the left-side front bumper reinforcement clip may loosen, which can prevent the pop-up engine hood from activating.
Structure / Body / Bumpers 24/10/2024 · 24V798000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Nissan Z vehicles. The connectors for the right-side pedestrian detection sensors may be reversed in the front bumper harness, which can prevent the pop-up engine hood from activating as…
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Common Questions — 2023 Nissan Z
Is the 2023 Nissan Z reliable?
We rate the 2023 Nissan Z's reliability 7.3/10 — above the middle of the pack for this class. It has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2023 Nissan Z have?
2 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2023 Nissan Z worth buying?
It scores 7.7/10 overall, ranking #154 of 316 sportss in our database (better than 52% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2023 Nissan Z cost?
The 2023 Nissan Z starts at $41,680 and ranges up to $52,303 across trims (MSRP when new). At 21 MPG, expect roughly $2,500/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Nissan Z
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More Nissan Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Nissan models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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