SO here it is – Nissan’s second Nismo vehicle for the UK.

For the uninitiated, Nismo simply stands for Nissan Motorsport and, although it has a long history in Japan – and in various computer games – it is only just making forays into Britain.

It started earlier this year with a hot version of the Juke and now it’s given its treatment to a proper sports car.

And the 370z is a great choice, because it really is a proper sports car. It was already a full-fat, beefy coupe and is now even more hairy-chested than ever.

First up, the Nismo costs £10,000 more than the basic 370z, coming in at £36,995. The question is, however, is it worth that extra cash?

You get six-speed manual transmission, power is boosted by 16ps to 344ps from the meaty 3.7L V6 engine, uprated brakes have been fitted and there are tuned springs, shocks and stabiliser bars.

There are also 19in wheels and various Nismo trim additions inside and out.

62mph arrives in a mere 5.2 seconds in what feels like a very solid, chunky car to drive.

I mean that in a good way, a very good way.

Everything about the 370z feels full-on, fat and beefy. The performance doesn’t come at the expense of comfort or interior bells and buttons and handling is superb.

The manual gearbox is a delight and still allows you that satisfying blip of the throttle as you change down.

Everything is so well built and this, even in extra-sporty tuned Nismo spec, is an accomplished tourer that would be at home with long distances.

The sat nav system is comprehensive and you get all the usual perks like USB, climate control and so on.

Considering its all-round offering, the price tag is excellent value.

But is it worth splashing out on the Nismo?

If you can afford to then yes, it really is. The equivalent Porsche will cost you a lot more.

I drove the ‘normal’ 370z earlier this year and, at £26,995, it is even better value. Phenomenal, in fact.

Whichever 370z you go for, you will not be disappointed in what is a usuable every day car with fantastic thrills on tap for those who love to drive.

Find out more at westovergroup.co.uk/nissan.