The VQ35 engine is a V6 gasoline engine that has been produced by Nissan since 1994. It’s known for its reliability, performance, and versatility, making it a popular choice for many Nissan and Infiniti models.
The VQ35 is a 3.5-liter engine that uses electronic fuel injection and a dual overhead cam (DOHC) configuration. It’s available in several variations, each with its own unique characteristics and performance capabilities.
Over the years, the VQ35 has been used in a wide range of vehicles, from sedans and coupes to SUVs and sports cars. It’s known for its smooth power delivery and strong acceleration, making it a popular choice for performance enthusiasts.
In addition to its performance capabilities, the VQ35 is also known for its reliability. It’s been praised for its durability and long lifespan, making it a great choice for both daily drivers and those who demand a lot from their vehicles.
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A Brief History
The VQ35 made its debut in 1994, initially powering the Nissan Maxima. Its success led to its adoption in numerous other Nissan and Infiniti models, including the 350Z, G35, and FX35. Over the years, the engine has undergone various refinements and updates, ensuring its continued relevance in the modern automotive landscape.
Engine Design and Specifications
The VQ35 is a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine designed by Nissan. It features a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, providing a balance of strength and weight. The engine uses a dual overhead cam (DOHC) configuration, which means it has two camshafts that control the intake and exhaust valves.
The VQ35 has a bore and stroke of 95.5mm by 81.4mm, which gives it a displacement of 3,498 cubic centimeters. It has a compression ratio of 9.5:1, which means the fuel-air mixture is compressed to a ratio of 9.5:1 before it’s ignited.
The engine uses electronic fuel injection to deliver fuel to the cylinders. This system helps to ensure that the engine gets the right amount of fuel for optimal performance and efficiency. The VQ35 is available with both automatic and manual transmissions.
The VQ35 is known for its reliability and performance. It’s a popular choice for a wide range of Nissan and Infiniti models, including the Maxima, Altima, 350Z, G35, and Pathfinder.
VQ35 Engine Variations
The VQ35 has been offered in several variations throughout its production run, each with its own unique characteristics and performance capabilities. Some of the most notable variations include:
- VQ35DE: The base model VQ35 known for its reliability and versatility.
- VQ35DE Revup: A high-performance version of the VQ35DE, featuring a revised intake manifold and camshafts for increased power output.
- VQ35HR: A more powerful version of the VQ35DE, designed for sports car applications.
- VQ35DD: A direct-injection version of the VQ35DE, offering improved fuel economy and emissions reduction.
Performance and Tuning
The VQ35 is renowned for its strong performance characteristics. Its naturally aspirated versions are capable of producing impressive power and torque, making them ideal for both everyday driving and spirited performance. The VQ35 also lends itself well to modifications and tuning, allowing enthusiasts to further enhance its performance potential.
- Stock power output: Varies depending on the specific variation, but typically ranges from 250 to 300 horsepower.
- Tuning options: Exhaust systems, intake manifolds, cold air intakes, engine management systems, and forced induction (turbochargers or superchargers).
Reliability and Maintenance
The VQ35 is renowned for its reliability, but like any mechanical component, it requires proper care and maintenance to ensure long-lasting performance. Regular maintenance helps to prevent issues and keep your engine running smoothly.
One of the most important maintenance tasks is to follow the recommended oil change intervals. Using high-quality engine oil and changing it at the specified intervals helps to lubricate the engine components, reduce friction, and prevent wear. Additionally, regular coolant flushes are essential to maintain the proper cooling system operation and prevent overheating.
Spark plugs play a vital role in the engine’s combustion process. Over time, spark plugs can become worn or fouled, affecting the engine’s performance and fuel economy. It’s important to replace spark plugs according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Air filters help to keep dirt and debris out of the engine, ensuring clean air for the combustion process. Replacing the air filter regularly is crucial for maintaining optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.
While the VQ35 is generally reliable, it’s still susceptible to issues like oil leaks, valve cover gaskets, and catalytic converter problems. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as strange noises, reduced performance, or leaks, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic to address the underlying issue.
VQ35DE Revup: A High-Performance Gem
One of the most sought-after variations of the VQ35 is the VQ35DE Revup. This version was designed to deliver a more exhilarating driving experience, with a focus on higher RPM performance. Key features of the VQ35DE Revup include:
- Revised intake manifold: The intake manifold was redesigned to optimize airflow at higher RPMs, improving engine response and power delivery.
- Modified camshafts: The camshafts were profiled to provide more aggressive valve timing, resulting in increased power output.
- Higher redline: The VQ35DE Revup had a higher redline than the standard VQ35DE, allowing it to rev more freely and produce more power.
VQ35HR: A Sports Car Powerhouse
The VQ35HR engine was specifically developed for sports car applications, such as the Nissan 350Z and Infiniti G35. This variation offered even more power and torque than the VQ35DE Revup, making it a favorite among performance enthusiasts. Key features of the VQ35HR include:
- Increased displacement: The VQ35HR had a slightly larger displacement than the standard VQ35DE, resulting in increased power output.
- Revised cylinder head: The cylinder head was redesigned to improve airflow and combustion efficiency, leading to higher power and torque.
- Higher compression ratio: The VQ35HR had a higher compression ratio than the standard VQ35DE, allowing it to extract more power from the fuel.
VQ35DD: Direct Injection for Improved Efficiency
The VQ35DD engine introduced direct fuel injection technology to the VQ35 platform. This system allowed for more precise fuel delivery, resulting in improved fuel economy, reduced emissions, and increased power output. Key features of the VQ35DD include:
- Direct fuel injectors: The VQ35DD featured direct fuel injectors that injected fuel directly into the combustion chamber, rather than into the intake manifold.
- Improved fuel economy: Direct injection allowed for more efficient fuel combustion, resulting in improved fuel economy.
- Reduced emissions: Direct injection helped to reduce harmful emissions, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx).
VQ35DE Hybrid: A Green Performance Solution
In recent years, Nissan has also introduced a hybrid version of the VQ35, known as the VQ35DE Hybrid. This engine combines a gasoline-powered VQ35DE with an electric motor, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. Key features of the VQ35DE Hybrid include:
- Electric motor: The VQ35DE Hybrid features an electric motor that assists the gasoline engine during acceleration and provides power for electric-only driving.
- Regenerative braking: The hybrid system captures energy during braking and stores it in a battery, which can be used to power the electric motor.
- Improved fuel economy: The VQ35DE Hybrid offers significantly improved fuel economy compared to the standard gasoline-powered VQ35DE.
Applications of the VQ35 Engine
The VQ35 has been used in a wide range of Nissan and Infiniti models, including:
- Nissan: Maxima, Altima, 350Z, 370Z, Pathfinder, Murano, Frontier, X-Trail, and Teana.
- Infiniti: G35, G37, FX35, FX45, QX56, and M35.
The VQ35 versatility and reliability have made it a popular choice for both passenger cars and SUVs. It has also been used in racing applications, where its performance capabilities have been put to the test.
Conclusion:
The VQ35 engine is a testament to Nissan’s engineering excellence. Its reliability, performance, and versatility have made it a beloved powerplant among enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
Whether you’re looking for a powerful sports car or a fuel-efficient family sedan, the VQ35 offers something to suit your needs. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its combination of performance, efficiency, and durability.
As Nissan continues to refine and evolve the VQ35 engine, it’s clear that this powerplant will remain a cornerstone of the company’s product lineup for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the VQ35?
The VQ35 is a V6 gasoline engine produced by Nissan. It’s known for its reliability, performance, and versatility.
When was the VQ35 first introduced?
The VQ35 was first introduced in 1994.
What is the displacement of the VQ35?
The VQ35 has a displacement of 3.5 liters.
What are the common variations of the VQ35?
Some common variations of the VQ35 include:
- VQ35DE: The base model
- VQ35DE Revup: A high-performance version
- VQ35HR: A sports car version
- VQ35DD: A direct-injection version
What vehicles does the VQ35 power?
The VQ35 has been used in a wide range of Nissan and Infiniti models, including the Maxima, Altima, 350Z, G35, and Pathfinder.
Is the VQ35 engine known for its reliability?
Yes, the VQ35 engine is known for its reliability and durability.
What is the typical power output of the VQ35 engine?
The typical power output of the VQ35 engine varies depending on the specific variation, but it generally ranges from 250 to 300 horsepower.
Can the VQ35 engine be modified for performance?
Yes, the VQ35 engine is popular among enthusiasts who enjoy modifying their vehicles. Common modifications include exhaust systems, intake manifolds, and engine management systems.
What are some common maintenance tasks for the VQ35 engine?
Regular maintenance for the VQ35 engine includes oil changes, spark plug replacements, air filter replacements, and coolant flushes.
Is the VQ35 engine still in production?
While the VQ35 engine has been replaced in newer Nissan models, it’s still used in some older vehicles.
