The 350Z entered production in late 2002 and was sold and marketed as a 2003 model. The first year there was only a coupe, as the roadster did not debut until the following year. Initially, the coupe came in Base, Enthusiast, Performance, Touring and Track versions, while the Roadster was limited to Enthusiast and Touring trim levels. In Europe, only the 'Track' trim was available, although it was badged and marketed as '350Z'. The Track model included Brembo brakes, front air dam, rear spoiler, traction control, cloth seats, 18-inch wheels, VLSD, and optional GPS. The 350Z is also very popular for making an appearance in The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift.
The 350Z has been given extensive coverage in the automotive press, and has obtained generally positive reviews. Eddie Alterman, senior editor of Automobile Magazine, said of the 350Z "An outstanding performance value. They got all the important stuff right. The 350Z has been recognized including the following: International Car of the Year: Most Sex Appeal Award 2003 - Road and Travel, Driver's Choice Best Performance Car 2003 - MotorWeek, and Automobile of the Year 2003 - Automobile Magazine.
