The Nissan VQ37VHR TT is a 3,696 cc, twin — turbocharged V6 petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2014. It features an aluminium block and heads, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), Nissan's VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) system, and twin IHI turbochargers. This high — performance engine delivers outputs of 303–340 kW (412–461 PS) and 540–600 Nm, depending on application.
Fitted exclusively to the GT — R (R35) during this period, the VQ37VHR TT was engineered for track…
Production years 2009–2014 meet Euro 5 standards for all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9988).
The Nissan VQ37VHR TT is a 3,696 cc V6 twin-turbocharged petrol engineered for the GT-R supercar (2009-2014). It combines VVEL variable valve lift with twin IHI turbochargers to deliver brutal, linear power and exceptional throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances extreme performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,696 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve, 60° bank angle | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 95.5 mm × 86.0 mm | |
Power output | 303–340 kW (412–461 PS) | |
Torque | 540–600 Nm @ 3,200–5,800 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin IHI turbochargers (parallel) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts | |
Oil type | Nissan Motor Oil 5W-40 (or equivalent) | |
Dry weight | 298 kg |
The Nissan VQ37VHR TT was used exclusively in Nissan's R35 platform with longitudinal, rear-transaxle mounting. This engine received minor ECU and boost control updates across its production run (2009-2014), but core mechanical components remained consistent, creating no significant interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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The VQ37VHR TT's primary reliability risk is turbocharger bearing failure, with elevated incidence in engines subjected to aggressive driving without proper cooldown. Nissan internal data indicated this was the most common major failure point for track-used or poorly maintained units, while its chain-driven valvetrain and VVEL system are otherwise robust. Neglecting post-drive cooldown procedures makes proactive adherence to Nissan's guidelines critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2009-2014) and aggregated workshop data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The VQ37VHR TT is mechanically robust long-term, but its reliability is heavily dependent on strict adherence to maintenance, particularly regarding turbocharger cooldown and using the correct 5W-40 oil. Its chain-driven timing system is strong. With meticulous care, including regular fluid changes and proper driving habits, these engines can exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
The most common serious issue is turbocharger bearing failure due to improper cooldown. Other frequent problems include failures of the VVEL solenoids/actuators, ignition coil failures leading to misfires, and accelerated transmission fluid degradation due to engine heat. These are well-covered in Nissan service information.
The VQ37VHR TT was used exclusively in the Nissan GT-R (R35) from 2009 to 2014. It was the sole engine for all variants of the GT-R during this period, including the Premium, Black Edition, and Track Edition models.
Yes, the VQ37VHR TT is highly tunable. Basic ECU remaps can yield 50-70 kW gains. More significant power increases require upgraded turbos, fuel injectors, and intercoolers. The engine's internals are strong, but pushing beyond 450 kW reliably often requires forged components. Many aftermarket tuners offer comprehensive packages for extreme power.
Fuel economy is very poor due to its performance focus. Expect around 15-18 L/100km (15-18 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a GT-R. Highway cruising can yield 12-13 L/100km (21-24 mpg UK), while aggressive driving or track use can easily push consumption to 25 L/100km (11 mpg UK) or higher.
Yes. The Nissan VQ37VHR TT is an interference engine. This means if the timing chain were to fail or jump timing, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing severe internal engine damage. This underscores the importance of using the correct oil to ensure chain tensioner function.
Nissan specifies a 5W-40 full-synthetic oil meeting their specific performance standards. Using a high-quality, full-synthetic 5W-40 is non-negotiable for protecting the turbos, VVEL system, and timing chain tensioners. Regular oil changes (every 10,000 km or 6 months) are mandatory.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
NISSAN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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