It may seem like just yesterday that the 370Z replaced the 350Z, but it’s been three years – time for a mid-cycle refresh. For the 2012 370Z, it’s a very, very mild one, as revealed yesterday at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show.

Up front, Nissan has added LED daytime running lights while finally ditching the controversial “fangs.” . To some eyes, removing the fangs brings the 370Z closer to a resemblance with the 350Z, though it retains the hook-shaped headlights and taller hood. Whether evoking the 350Z is an improvement depends on the viewer. In the rear a red reflector replaces the black cover between the tailpipes. Nissan also announced two new color options will be available: Magma Red and Midnight Blue. The Coupe model now features new 18-inch alloy wheels, while models equipped with the Sport Package receive 19-inch alloy wheels.

Inside the 370Z, the petrol gauge will now feature a dark-finish trim, which should provide better contrast making it easier to read the LED display. The only other interior update is a new Bose Premium Audio Package with two additional speakers and two subwoofers.

Both the 370Z Coupe and Convertible will be powered by an unchanged 3.7-litre V6 producing 245 kW and sending power to the rear wheels via either a seven-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission.

Not content with just one special edition to celebrate its 40th anniversary, the Nissan 370Z Black Edition is the latest exclusive iteration to mark four decades of the famous Z badge.

Just 370 of the two-seater coupés will be launched in Europe from April and they will be most easily identifiable by their distinct metallic Scratch Shield paint, which can “heal” the finish in case of stone chip damage.

Coming in either black or quartz, the Black Edition rides on 19-inch dark grey aluminium forged wheels that don’t even seem to be trying to contain the bright red brake callipers. The contrast continues inside with red leather and suede on the seats and door inserts and stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel, centre cluster, console and knee pads.

On top of the standard feature list (BOSE premium audio fittings, intelligent key, start button) is Nissan’s Connect Premium touch-screen satellite navigation and USB-capable audio system combination. The next-generation system features a 7in screen, 3D mapping with real time traffic information, voice recognition in eight languages, DVD and Bluetooth capability and 9.3GB audio storage on the high performance HDD.

All the mechanical specifications of the standard 370Z carry over, meaning the 3,7-litre V6 still develops 245 kW and 363 Nm of torque and races from 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds with the six-speed manual and 5.6 seconds with the optional seven-speed paddle shift automatic.

European delivery commences in April. There’s been no announcement from Nissan SA as to whether we should expect the ‘Black Edition’ in our country.

Adapted from CarAdvice