Nissan has brought one of the most recognisable features of its Z-car heritage back to life with the Z Kaze Concept, a one off project unveiled at the 2026 ZCON enthusiast gathering in Phoenix, Arizona.

Named after the Japanese word for “wind”, the Z Kaze is defined by its custom engineered T-top roof, reviving an open air feature last seen on earlier generations of the Z. Nissan’s designers were inspired by the idea of a summer drive along California’s Pacific Coast Highway.

The concept also embraces the tuning culture of the 1990s. Finished in Pacific Teal, it features a lightweight vented carbon fibre bonnet, widened fenders and a bespoke carbon fibre aerodynamic body kit.

Perhaps the coolest detail is its wheels. Nissan sourced an original set of 18 inch NISMO LMGT2 forged multi piece wheels, which are no longer in production, and had them completely restored for the project. They measure 10 inches wide at the front and 11 inches at the rear.

Inside, white leather seats with carbon fibre accents reinforce the open air theme, while Bose Personal Plus headrest speakers allow occupants to enjoy music with the roof removed.

The mechanical upgrades follow the same 1990s tuner inspiration. NISMO suspension components are combined with GReddy hardware for the Z’s 3.0 litre twin turbo V6, including a SUPREME SP exhaust, front mounted air to air intercooler and Airinx air filter.

The Z Kaze remains a non production concept, but it shows just how much character can be added to Nissan’s current Z. It will remain on display at ZCON in Phoenix through September 26 before moving to the Japanese Classic Car Show in California on October 3.