The Nissan 350Z underwent a major upgrade in 2006, and for 2007, the 3.5-liter V6 powerplant was redesigned for substantially more power — 306 horses to be exact — and is used in all eight models of the 350Z.

Other improvements encompassed in the 2006 redesign and additions for 2007/2008 include bigger brakes, better headlamps, upsized alloy wheels, tighter rack-and-pinion steering, a carbon-fiber driveshaft, drive-by-wire throttle, and a higher quality sound system. Side-impact air bags were added as standard equipment to the Roadster, and two Coupe models get the Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System with steering wheel-mounted controls.

Considering the other standard convenience features such as power windows, mirrors, and door locks, remote keyless entry with rolling code protection, automatic temperature control, a premium, 160-watt AM/FM/CD, 6-speaker stereo, dual 12-volt power outlets, security system, heated outside mirrors, seats with eight-way manual driver and four-way manual passenger adjustments, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter boot, 18-inch alloy wheels, bi-Xenon HID headlights and LED taillights, among other things, the base price of $29,680 for the Base Coupe is a pretty compelling value. Naturally, the other seven models escalate into the mid-$40’s in price.

Walkaround: The looks of the Nissan 350Z have only changed subtlety since it originally debuted in 2002. The most telling change came in 2007 when a distinctive new hood and front fascia that breathes in more air became necessary to make room for the new engine.

Bulging fenders, short front and rear overhangs and its fastback roofline give the Coupe its aggressive stance. When coupled with weight savings gained from a carbon fiber-reinforced driveshaft and an aluminum hood (and on the Roadster, a plastic trunk lid), balance the Z and contribute to its responsive handling.

Options include 18-inch chrome wheels, an aero package and a DVD-based navigation system. NISMO high-performance parts are available, including racier shocks, springs, sway bars and an exhaust system.

The 2008 350Z is available in Coupe and Roadster body styles with an array of models — five for the Coupe and three for the Roadster. The major revision in the 2007 model year included the addition of a new NISMO 350Z model (Coupe only).

Interior: The Nissan 350Z cockpit is designed for serious driving. Seating is form-fitting, supportive and comfortable. The driver’s seat bottom features a mound in the center at the front to prevent “submarining” — which restrains the driver from sliding forward under deceleration.

The tilt steering column and main instrumentation pod move together as a unit, ensuring a clear view of the gauges for all sizes drivers. The main instrument pod consists of a large tachometer and flanking speedometer, fuel and temperature gauges. A separate three-pod dash-mounted cluster includes a voltmeter, oil pressure gauge and a digital trip computer, from which the driver can program a shift light to come on at a preferred rpm.

There are cupholders in the rear of the center console and in the doors, but the firm suspension makes drinking any liquid while underway downright foolish.

The Z doesn’t appear to offer much in the way of storage — for example there’s no glovebox. Cars without the navigation system get an updated storage pocket above the radio — replacing the chezzy previous unit. There’s also several smaller, thoughtfully designed, storage compartments with handy access, and a lockable compartment behind the passenger seat.

The Coupe’s cargo area is an hourglass-shaped well, squeezed in the middle by the shock towers and the big strut-tower brace tying them together. Nissan says two golf bags will fit, but we know from personal experience, two average-size rolling suitcases and a computer bag could be a challenge.

Under The Hood: The aforementioned 306-horse, 3.5-Liter V6, VQ-series powerplant has been on Ward’s “10 Best Engines” list for 14 consecutive years. It’s obvious why. The standard close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox was meant for shifting, with sixth gear functioning as an overdrive for better fuel mileage. There’s an optional 5-speed automatic available. The new more powerful engine also gets slightly better mileage than the previous 3.5-liter.

Behind The Wheel: The rear-wheel drive, 2008 Nissan 350Z is fast, fun, and a pure sports car. The engine boasts a wonderful, deep, raspy, junkyard dog-style growl, and driving this car is, quite frankly, a blast.

Our driving experience included freeway, city and winding roads — and for the most part, we got to drive the 350Z the way it was meant to be. You almost can’t push this car too hard. It’s wonderfully responsive going through the gears, delivering more than excellent acceleration and spectacular handling.

On winding roads, rhythmic revving and braking comes easy and is where the 350Z excels. The 268 pound-feet of torque peaks at 4800 rpm but comes on strong beginning at about 3000 rpm — especially in second gear because it accelerates so quickly. The chassis is rigid, and the suspension and tires are up for the challenge of hard cornering.

Whines: While reminiscent of the original Z, the dash-mounted three-pod gauge cluster looks retro-cool, but can’t be read as easily as the main gauges. There’s a pair of cup holders in the center console, but they’re mounted too far to the rear for easy driver access, and are awkward for passengers.

Bottom Line: The Nissan 350Z delivers more than the promise of its powerful good looks. It boasts serious sports car performance at an attainable price — you get both the style and the horsepower — the kind you can live with on a daily basis.