Nissan 370Z Review; Driving Impressions

Grasping the wheel you notice that its cross-section shape and contour fit the hands naturally, allowing a good grip without fatigue inducing white-knuckling.  The oval shape not only helps with gauge vision but also serves as a subtle indicator of wheel position.  Critical gauges, like the tach, speedo, fuel, tire pressure, parking brake and door ajar indicators are displayed in 3 binnacles mounted directly to the steering column right in the driver's line of sight.  Less critical gauges like engine coolant temperature, charging state and a clock are mounted centrally on the dash but also clear in the driver's line of site.  Unfortunately, Nissan still thinks that an oil pressure gauge is not necessary in a high performance car.  If we could have it our way, we would relocate the clock to somewhere else, and move the steering column located multi warning gauge to the central pods.  Additionally, we‘d add a dual needle oil pressure/ temperature gauge to the vacated steering column position.

The 370Z's oval steering wheel aids gauge readability and serves as an ergonomic position indicator.  Hand indentations also give the driver position cues, helping communicate the wheels position intuitively.

The Automatic models steering wheel features F-1 inspired paddle shifters so gear changes can be done without moving the hands.  The steering wheel has a cross section shape that matches a persons hands for non-fatiguing comfort.