We look at the features and functionality of these three sports coupes alto see which one offers you the best combination of screen, interface, ease-of-use. With model ranges dating as far back as 2009, you'll be interested to see how far we've progressed.
The modern buying trend may towards SUVs and double cabs, but there’s still a respectable part of the population that enjoys a good sports car. They may have been dwindling in recent years, but the likes of the Audi TT, Nissan 370Z, Toyota GT86, and BMW 2 Series shows us that there is still an appetite for the enthusiast machine.
The Nissan 370Z was introduced in 2009 and was only recently dropped from the lineup on the back of the global launch of the Nissan Z (Z34). Sadly, South Africa will not be seeing this model any time soon so purists and enthusiasts will have to settle for a used 370Z instead.
If you’re considering a 370Z, a Toyota GT86 and Ford Mustang should be on your radar as well. While they all offer different driving experiences, they all fit the front-engined, rear-wheel-drive, coupe formula. Here’s how they stack up on the comfort and convenience side of things, particularly the infotainment system.
Nissan 370Z
The 370Z was updated in its later years to keep it fresh and relevant for the time. Later models are fitted with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that allows for your typical audio recreation and playback. This unit is capable of handling CD and DVD playback, has Bluetooth functionality for hands-free telephony and audio playback and has a single USB port. Satellite navigation is standard fitment but you’re not going to get Apple or Google connectivity in the Z.
The controls interface consists of a multifunction steering wheel and two, rather busy controls consoles, one situated just below the screen and another in the central fascia. The upper level interface controls much of the built-in Sat Nav and menu controls while the lower section handles audio controls and CD/DVD functionality. The CD slot is positioned between these two interfaces. Voice control is available for those who are brave enough.
Audi playback is through a 4-speaker setup while some models that were specked with the Bose audio will feature 6-speakers.
Toyota GT86
The early Toyota 86 (predating the GT moniker) allowed customers to choose whether or not they wanted a touchscreen infotainment system. Later models were fitted with the Toyota Display Audi system, a 7-inch touchscreen unit that while fairly capable, was tricky to use and didn’t offer the best resolution. Just before the GT86 was removed from the price lists, the units were updated to include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, on top of the standard features of AM/FM reception, USB input, HDMI port, and Bluetooth connectivity.
This unit is devoid of tactile interfaces and relies solely on touch inputs for track skip, volume and power. Drivers can use the multifunction steering wheel to change these parameters, but the multifunction steering wheel was only introduced in the 2017 facelift. Models prior to this didn’t have steering wheel controls but did have a physical rotary dial for volume control.
Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang is the only model of the three that is still available new. There may be a new Mustang on the horizon but for now you’re still able to get yourself behind the wheel of an American icon.
The Mustang is equipped with the SYNC3 infotainment system, an 8-inch color touchscreen unit that incorporates Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, CD playback, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and AUX input as well as the obligatory AM/FM reception. This robust unit may not have the best resolution but the smenuystem is simple and intuitive with a tiled home screen layout allowing quick access to the various features.
Steering wheel controls, voice control, and a tactile interface that rests below the screen allow for users to control the unit with ease. Large volume and tuning knobs are styled according to the Mustang’s retro interior theme and large buttons for track skipping, audio, power and eject sit in a centrally located area. All local Mustangs are equipped with the premium Shaker audio system that includes a 12-speaker audio system, replete with 8-inch subwoofer.
Chad LückhoffWith over 18 years of motorsport commentary and a passion for 90s Japanese Sports Cars, Chad Lückhoff is happiest when surrounded by drift cars and smoking tyres. His experience as the Technical Editor of the country’s top tuning magazine means that it’s the nuts and bolts of motoring that tickles his fancy. As comfortable in front of the camera as he is behind it, he’ll take you behind the wheel with his video reviews, written recounts, and invoking photography. One of the first to join the AutoTrader fray, Chad has been living his passion at AutoTrader for over 7-years.View News & Reviews
Keyword: Nissan 370Z vs Toyota GT86 vs Ford Mustang: which one has the best infotainment system?