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-capable performance with daily drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise electronic throttle control, sequential fuel injection, and twin catalytic converters, meeting Euro 5 standards.
One documented service consideration is premature wear of the turbocharger turbine bearings under sustained high boost, as noted in Nissan Service Information Bulletin NTB12-088. This was often linked to inadequate post-drive cooldown or use of incorrect oil viscosity. Nissan recommended strict adherence to cooldown procedures and the use of specified 5W-40 oil.
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 twin-turbo system provides immense, lag-free power but requires strict adherence to a 1-2 minute post-drive cooldown to prevent turbo bearing coking, as per NTB12-088. Nissan-specified 5W-40 synthetic oil is critical for optimal turbo and VVEL actuator function under high heat. The 9.0:1 compression ratio necessitates premium unleaded fuel (98 RON) to prevent detonation. Aggressive driving without proper warm-up can accelerate wear; oil changes every 10,000 km are mandatory for longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires Nissan Motor Oil 5W-40 or equivalent meeting Nissan specification (Nissan Owner's Manual GT-R).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2009-2014 models globally (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9988).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Peak figures vary by model year and market (Nissan TIS Doc. N09-010).
Nissan Technical Information System (TIS): Docs N09-010, N12-088
Nissan Service Information Bulletin: NTB12-088
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9988)
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.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface on the front of the left cylinder head, near the timing cover (Nissan TIS N09-010). The 8th character of the VIN for R35 GT-R models is 'V'. The engine is visually identified by its compact V6 layout with twin turbochargers mounted in the 'hot-V' configuration between the cylinder banks, feeding into a large, centrally mounted plenum. Critical differentiation from the naturally aspirated VQ37VHR: VQ37VHR TT has prominent twin turbochargers, intercoolers, and associated plumbing. The intake manifold is also unique to the twin-turbo application.
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.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about NISSAN VQ37VHR-TT.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with NISSAN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialNISSAN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
