Following months of speculation, Nissan’s 350Z replacement has been officially unveiled by the Japanese automaker. Though its style is evolutionary rather than revolutionary, we can see that substantial changes under the skin are marked by an all-new body and design with a unique C-pillar kink.

Nissan also announced earlier today that the 370Z will make an appearance in the Electronic Arts video game, “Need for Speed Underground.”

Overall, the 370Z — which was developed under the code name C53D — appears to keep the same general shape as the current 350Z. As previously speculated, the newest Z receives a headlight treatment similar to the design seen on the 2009 Maxima. The headlamps will reportedly use LEDs.

The rear is also a bit stubbier, with a sharper crease along the trailing edge of the hatch. The 370Z’s rear taillights will have a fishhook design similar to those seen on the Maxima’s headlights.

The 370Z is expected to use the same VQ37VHR powerplant found in the Infiniti G37 — a V6 displacing 3.7-liter — delivering at least 330 horsepower. Recent rumors indicate a 4.5-liter V8 might also be offered. According to Japan’s Best Car, Nissan’s Chief of Production confirmed a bent eight was a distinct possibility.

Suspension duties for the new car will be handled by a double wishbone setup up front with a multi-link setup out back. Brembo brakes and 18 and 19 inch wheels will also be part of the 370Z package.

Despite a serious upgrade in hardware, the new 370Z is said to weigh less than the outgoing 350Z — giving further credence to its performance credentials.

In December of 2006, Nissan product planning VP Larry Dominique said the next-generation Z would “have considerably more performance than the current model and give a visual stimulus beyond today’s Z.” He said it would continue to deliver on the promise of being attainable to a wide range of people.

Check back for live images and all the details after the 370Z makes its Los Angeles Auto Show debut.

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Nissan GT-R - Nissan 350Z - Nissan Altima - Nissan Dualis - Nissan Foria - Nissan Forum - Nissan Fuga - Nissan Intima - Nissan Lafesta - Nissan Maxima - Nissan Mixim - Nissan Murano - Nissan Pivo - Nissan President - Nissan Round Box - Nissan Skyline - Nissan Stagea - Nissan Tone - Nissan Urge

Check out the Nissan 370Z wallpapers and Nissan 370Z Pictures (pics) collection below: