Nissan's VQ engine family has powered some of the most iconic Japanese sports cars of the past two decades. From the 350Z and G35 to the 370Z and modern Q60, the VQ series has earned a reputation for reliability, smooth power delivery, and that distinctive exhaust note enthusiasts love.
After tuning hundreds of VQ-powered Nissans and Infinitis at Raw Exotics, I've learned what works, what doesn't, and how to extract maximum performance from these engines. This guide covers everything from identifying which VQ you have to the best modifications for your specific platform.
Understanding the VQ Family
The VQ is Nissan's V6 engine family that debuted in the 1990s and continues today in various forms. For performance applications, we focus on three main variants:
VQ35DE (2003-2006)
The VQ35DE powered the early 350Z (2003-2006) and G35 (2003-2006). This is the "DE" motor—dual overhead cam, naturally aspirated V6 displacing 3.5 liters.
Key specs:
- Displacement: 3,498 cc (3.5L)
- Power: 287-306 hp (varies by year and application)
- Torque: 274 lb-ft
- Compression: 10.3:1
- Redline: 7,000 RPM
- Intake: Short runner aluminum intake manifold
- Exhaust: Cast iron manifolds
Characteristics: The VQ35DE is smooth, reliable, and loves to rev. The engine makes peak power high in the rev range and rewards aggressive driving. However, low-end torque is modest, and the factory tune is conservative.
VQ35HR (2007-2008)
The VQ35HR is the "High Rev" version introduced in 2007 for the 350Z and G35. Nissan made significant changes to improve high-RPM performance and overall output.
Key specs:
- Displacement: 3,498 cc (3.5L)
- Power: 306-313 hp
- Torque: 268 lb-ft
- Compression: 10.6:1
- Redline: 7,500 RPM
- Intake: VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) on intake cam
- Exhaust: Tubular exhaust manifolds
Major changes from DE:
- Revised cylinder heads with better port flow
- Variable valve lift and timing (VVEL) system
- Lighter rotating assembly (crank, rods, pistons)
- Higher compression ratio
- 500 RPM higher redline
- Improved intake and exhaust manifolds
Characteristics: The HR is noticeably more responsive and rev-happy than the DE. The VVEL system provides broader powerband and better throttle response. However, VVEL also limits some modification options.
VQ37VHR (2009-Present)
The VQ37VHR debuted in the 2009 370Z and continues in current Q60 models. This is the 3.7-liter evolution with significant displacement and power increases.
Key specs:
- Displacement: 3,696 cc (3.7L)
- Power: 328-350 hp (varies by application)
- Torque: 269-277 lb-ft
- Compression: 11.0:1
- Redline: 7,500 RPM
- Intake: VVEL on intake cam
- Exhaust: Tubular manifolds, dual exhaust
Major improvements over VQ35HR:
- Larger displacement (3.5L → 3.7L) via increased bore
- Revised VVEL with broader range
- Improved intake manifold design
- Better cylinder head flow
- Stronger bottom end components
Characteristics: The VQ37VHR is the most powerful and refined VQ variant. It makes strong power across the entire rev range with excellent throttle response. The 3.7L displacement provides notably better low-end and mid-range torque compared to the 3.5L engines.
Common Naturally Aspirated Modifications
VQ engines respond well to bolt-on modifications, though gains are more modest compared to forced induction. Here are the most effective NA mods:
Intake Systems
A quality cold air intake or short ram intake provides 5-12 hp on VQ engines, with most of the gains coming from reduced restriction and better airflow.
Popular options:
- Stillen Gen 3 CAI: Dual intake setup with heat shields. 10-15 hp gains. $400-500.
- K&N Typhoon: Short ram design. 8-12 hp gains. $300-400.
- Injen CAI: Cold air design with filters behind bumper. 10-12 hp. $350-450.
- Z1 Motorsports intake: Z-specific design. 10-15 hp. $450-550.
The intake adds a nice aggressive sound and slight throttle response improvement in addition to minor power gains.
Exhaust Systems
VQ engines are known for their exhaust note, and a proper exhaust system is one of the best modifications you can make—both for sound and power.
Test pipes/High-flow cats (most HP gain):
- Removing catalytic converters or installing high-flow cats provides 15-25 hp
- Massively improves exhaust note
- Not legal in all states (emissions concerns)
- Cost: $200-500
Cat-back exhaust:
- Replaces everything from the cats back
- 5-15 hp gains depending on design
- Primary benefit is sound enhancement
- Popular brands: Invidia, HKS, Tomei, Fast Intentions, Motordyne
- Cost: $800-1,800
Headers (long tube):
- Replace factory exhaust manifolds with long tube headers
- 15-20 hp gains, best combined with test pipes/HFCs
- Significantly improves exhaust scavenging
- Cost: $1,000-2,000 + installation
Best bang-for-buck exhaust setup: Test pipes + quality cat-back = 25-35 hp for $1,000-2,000 total.
Tuning (ECU Flash)
A custom ECU tune is the most important modification for unlocking power. The factory VQ tune is conservative, leaving significant power on the table.
Tuning options:
- UpRev: Popular Nissan/Infiniti tuning platform. Allows custom tuning and datalogging. $600-1,000 installed.
- EcuTek: Advanced tuning platform with more features. Requires EcuTek-certified tuner. $800-1,200 installed.
- Cobb Accessport: Limited VQ support, mainly for newer Q60s. $650-850.
Expected gains from tuning alone:
- Stock engine: 15-25 hp
- With bolt-ons (intake, exhaust): 20-35 hp
- Full bolt-ons + tune: 40-60 hp total over stock
Tuning also improves throttle response, eliminates rev hang, and optimizes the powerband.
Plenum Spacer
A plenum spacer installs between the upper and lower intake manifold, increasing plenum volume and improving mid-range torque.
Expected gains: 5-12 hp, primarily in mid-range (3,000-5,500 RPM). Cost: $150-350.
This is a cost-effective mod that noticeably improves drivability and throttle response.
Forced Induction: Turbo and Supercharger Options
For serious power, forced induction is the way to go. VQ engines respond incredibly well to boost.
Turbocharger Kits
Turbo kits for VQ engines typically add 150-300+ hp depending on boost level and supporting mods.
Popular VQ turbo kits:
- Greddy/Trust twin turbo kit: Well-engineered bolt-on kit. 400-500+ hp. $6,000-8,000.
- STS rear-mount turbo: Remote mount design. 380-450 hp. Less expensive but more lag. $4,500-6,000.
- Custom single turbo: Built by shops like us. 450-600+ hp potential. $5,000-10,000 depending on spec.
Power expectations (VQ37VHR with turbo):
- 6-8 psi: 450-500 hp
- 10-12 psi: 550-600 hp
- 14-18 psi: 650-750 hp (built motor recommended)
Supercharger Kits
Supercharger kits provide instant throttle response and linear power delivery—perfect for street cars.
Popular VQ supercharger kits:
- Stillen supercharger kit: Most popular VQ supercharger. 420-480 hp. $5,500-7,000.
- GTM Stage 1.5/2 supercharger: Higher performance option. 475-550 hp. $7,500-9,500.
Superchargers are more expensive than turbos but offer better drivability and instant boost.
Supporting Mods for Forced Induction
Whether turbo or supercharger, you'll need these supporting modifications:
- Fuel system: Upgraded fuel pump and injectors. $800-1,500.
- Clutch (manual): Stock clutch can't handle boost power. $800-1,500 for quality aftermarket clutch.
- Oil cooler: Essential for track use or aggressive driving. $600-1,200 installed.
- Intercooler: Usually included in kit, but upgrades available. $800-2,000.
- Tuning: Critical for safe boost operation. $1,000-1,800 for FI tuning.
Common VQ Issues and Solutions
VQ engines are generally reliable, but they have a few known issues:
Oil Consumption (VQ35DE/HR)
Some VQ35 engines consume oil, especially under hard driving. This is usually caused by worn piston rings or valve seals.
Solution: Monitor oil levels religiously. Add a catch can to reduce oil consumption. For severe cases, engine rebuild may be necessary.
Gallery Gasket Failure (VQ35DE)
Early VQ35DE engines (2003-2004) have a known issue with the oil gallery gasket failing, leading to oil starvation and engine damage.
Solution: Replace gallery gaskets preventatively if you have an early VQ35DE. Cost: $1,500-2,500 for professional installation.
Timing Chain Guide Wear
High-mileage VQ engines can develop timing chain noise from worn guide rails.
Solution: Replace timing chain, guides, and tensioners. Cost: $1,200-2,000.
VVEL System Issues (HR and VHR)
The VVEL system is generally reliable but can develop issues with actuators or sensors.
Solution: VVEL repairs require specialized knowledge. Expect $800-2,000 for VVEL-related repairs.
Real-World VQ Build Examples
Here are some actual VQ builds we've completed at Raw Exotics:
Build 1: Bolt-On 370Z (VQ37VHR)
- Stillen Gen 3 intake: $475
- Z1 test pipes: $350
- Invidia Gemini cat-back: $1,200
- EcuTek tune: $900
- Total cost: $2,925
- Result: 332 whp → 368 whp (36 hp gain)
Build 2: Supercharged G37 (VQ37VHR)
- Stillen supercharger kit: $6,800
- Upgraded fuel pump and injectors: $1,200
- Oil cooler: $850
- Competition clutch: $1,100
- Custom tuning: $1,200
- Total cost: $11,150
- Result: 285 whp → 465 whp (180 hp gain)
Build 3: Built Motor Turbo 350Z (VQ35DE)
- Forged pistons and rods: $3,500
- Custom single turbo kit: $7,000
- Fuel system upgrades: $2,000
- Built transmission: $3,200
- Supporting mods and tuning: $2,500
- Total cost: $18,200
- Result: 565 whp on 18 psi (E85)
Which VQ Platform Should You Choose?
If you're shopping for a VQ-powered car, here's my recommendation:
Best Value: 350Z / G35 (VQ35DE)
The early Z and G are affordable, plentiful, and have massive aftermarket support. You can find clean examples under $10,000. Perfect for a budget build.
Best Naturally Aspirated: 370Z / G37 (VQ37VHR)
The 3.7L makes significantly more power than the 3.5L variants. If you want to stay naturally aspirated, this is the engine to have. Better low-end torque and more headroom.
Best Daily Driver: Q60 (VQ37VHR)
Modern Q60s offer VQ37VHR power in a refined luxury package. Great for someone who wants performance with premium amenities.
"The VQ is one of the best sounding V6 engines ever built. With bolt-ons and a tune, these engines come alive. And if you want serious power, they handle boost incredibly well. The aftermarket support is strong, and the platform is proven."
Ready to Build Your VQ?
If you're in Houston and ready to unlock your VQ's potential, we'd love to help. At Raw Exotics, we've built everything from mild bolt-on Zs to 600+ hp turbo G35s. We know these engines inside and out.
Call us at (713) 299-1168 or stop by the shop. We'll help you plan the perfect build for your goals and budget—whether that's a full bolt-on package or a complete turbo build.