The automotive world collectively held its breath when Nissan announced the return of one of the most emotionally charged paint colors in sports car history. For 2025, the Nissan Z welcomes back Bayside Blue, a legendary hue that has stirred the hearts of enthusiasts since its iconic appearance on the R34 Skyline GT-R. This isn’t just another color option—it’s a direct connection to automotive folklore that transforms the already compelling Z into something truly special.
The Heritage Behind the Hue
Bayside Blue carries weight that transcends mere aesthetics. The name references Tokyo Bay, traced by the Bayshore Route, a legendary spot in Japanese street racing culture. Originally developed for the R33 GT-R’s Le Mans racing program, the color evolved into the iconic Bayside Blue we know today on the R34 GT-R, immortalized in films like “2 Fast 2 Furious” and countless enthusiast dreams.
The significance runs deeper than pop culture references. Bayside Blue adorned the vaunted R34 Skyline GT-R, one of the coolest vehicles to grace the roads of this Earth. When you see this particular shade of blue, there’s an immediate recognition—a visual shorthand for performance, heritage, and the golden era of Japanese sports cars.
2025 Z Specifications and Performance
The 2025 Nissan Z maintains its robust performance credentials while adding this heritage paint option. The Z is fitted with a twin-turbocharged V6 producing 400 hp, paired with either a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking maximum performance, the NISMO variant pushes output to 420 hp, backed by upgraded suspension, wider rear wheels and track-ready tuning.
| 2025 Nissan Z Trim Levels | Engine | Power | Transmission | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Z Sport | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 | 400 HP | 6MT/9AT | $44,110* |
| Z Performance | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 | 400 HP | 6MT/9AT | $54,110* |
| Z NISMO | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 | 420 HP | 9AT Only | $66,890* |
*Includes $1,140 destination fee
Pricing and Color Options
Pricing remains refreshingly stable for 2025, with prices unchanged from the 2024 model, which is quite unusual as new car prices often rise gradually each year. The addition of Bayside Blue comes alongside other new color options, including Pearl White Tricoat with Super Black roof and Solid Red with Super Black roof.
Bayside Blue replaces the outgoing Seiran Blue TriCoat, though enthusiasts note the new color appears as a solid finish rather than the two-tone approach of its predecessor. The Bayside Blue on the Z looks a bit darker than the R34’s variant, though it’s also possible the change is just from the photography.
Meeting Federal Standards
The 2025 Z continues to meet stringent federal safety and emissions requirements. Under NHTSA’s Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, manufacturers must balance performance with efficiency. The Z’s twin-turbocharged engine represents modern engineering that delivers both power and compliance with EPA greenhouse gas emissions standards for passenger vehicles.
Market Impact and Cultural Significance
The return of Bayside Blue represents more than a marketing decision—it’s a cultural moment. A bayside blue GT-R is a more interesting sight than any supercar, and a Bayside Blue Z inherits some of that appeal. For many enthusiasts, this color option transforms the Z from a well-executed sports car into a piece of automotive heritage they can actually afford.
Equipment and Technology remain comprehensive across the range. Standard features include 18-inch wheels with Yokohama ADVAN Sport tires, leather-wrapped steering wheel, 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and smartphone integration. Performance variants add Bose audio, larger displays, leather seating, and track-focused hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bayside Blue available on all Z trim levels?
A: Bayside Blue is available on Z Sport and Z Performance models but not on the Z NISMO, which maintains traditional NISMO racing colors.
Q: How much extra does Bayside Blue paint cost?
A: Pricing for Bayside Blue hasn’t been officially announced, but expect it to fall within the $895-$1,695 range of other premium colors.
Q: Will this color be available in other markets?
A: Currently confirmed for the US market, with possible expansion to other regions following similar GT-R color availability patterns.