21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but it’s arguably beside the point for the 2016 Nissan 370Z. This car exists to deliver driving thrills, a visceral experience, and a direct connection between the driver and the road, not to sip fuel like a hybrid. The 370Z buyer prioritizes performance and a raw, engaging driving experience above all else. They understand that a naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 producing 332 horsepower comes with a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Nissan 370Z with the 7-speed automatic transmission put city driving at 19 MPG and highway driving at 26 MPG. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic where the engine spends more time idling or accelerating from a standstill, negating any potential fuel-saving benefits. However, the highway rating suggests a more reasonable level of efficiency is achievable when cruising at a constant speed. The 26 MPG figure isn’t stellar, but it’s acceptable for a sports car with this level of power and performance. Those who opt for the 6-speed manual transmission might see slightly different numbers in real-world conditions, depending on their driving style. The 370Z’s relatively short gearing also contributes to fuel consumption, especially at higher speeds, as the engine is always working within its peak power band, ready to deliver instant acceleration.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Nissan 370Z is $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, which fluctuate constantly. As gas prices rise and fall, this number will shift accordingly. It’s important to remember that this is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. Someone with a heavy foot will likely exceed that $2,750 mark significantly, while a driver who prioritizes smooth acceleration and anticipates traffic flow could potentially come in under that estimate. Still, it serves as a useful benchmark when considering the overall cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized framework for fuel economy estimates, real-world mileage can vary significantly based on individual driving habits and conditions. The aggressive nature of the 370Z’s engine and its appeal to spirited drivers often lead to fuel consumption numbers that fall short of the EPA estimates; lead-footed drivers are likely to see numbers closer to 16-17 MPG in mixed driving. Drivers who frequently engage in track days or autocross events will see even lower figures. However, those who primarily use the 370Z for longer highway commutes with minimal stop-and-go could conceivably achieve or even slightly exceed the 26 MPG highway rating. Also, the quality of fuel used can impact efficiency. Premium fuel, as recommended by Nissan, can optimize engine performance and potentially yield slightly better mileage than lower octane alternatives. If you’re interested in 370Z MPG across all years, you can compare across model years.

How it compares

In the realm of sporty coupes, the 2016 Nissan 370Z’s fuel economy sits roughly in the middle of the pack when equipped with the automatic transmission. A similarly equipped 2016 Ford Mustang EcoBoost delivers a significantly better 25 MPG combined, but that car focuses far less on track performance. A 2016 Subaru BRZ offered around 28 MPG combined, but its power output is notably lower. The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro V6, meanwhile, lands closer to the 370Z, at around 22 MPG combined. These comparisons highlight the trade-offs inherent in choosing a sports car. The 370Z prioritizes raw power and a classic sports car feel over ultimate fuel efficiency. Its buyers are typically willing to accept the fuel economy penalty in exchange for the driving experience it offers. You can also review all Nissan fuel economy data to compare to other models in the lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly bury your foot in the throttle. The 3.7L V6 is responsive, but aggressive acceleration dramatically impacts fuel consumption. Smooth, measured throttle inputs will help you conserve fuel without sacrificing too much of the fun.

Proper tire inflation is critical for optimal fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel unnecessarily, especially in a larger displacement engine like the 370Z’s V6.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed can help optimize fuel efficiency compared to constantly varying your speed with your foot on the accelerator. However, be mindful of road conditions and disable cruise control when necessary for safety.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance using the correct recommended fluids. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Ensure that your air filter is clean, your spark plugs are in good condition, and that you use the recommended oil viscosity.

The 2016 370Z isn’t bought for the sake of saving money on gasoline. It’s bought for the thrill of driving, the sound of the engine, and the feeling of connection to the road. And for those experiences, the 21 MPG it delivers is a perfectly acceptable price to pay.