The Nissan VQ35 is a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 that produces around 287 horsepower in early Nissan 350Zs and closer to 300 hp in Nismo versions. The engine earned a reputation for reliability despite some oil consumption issues.
Nissan chose natural aspiration over turbocharging, which reduces moving parts and generally improves durability. The VQ35 uses timing chains rather than timing belts. Timing chains are considered more durable than timing belts and have no defined replacement period, often lasting as long as the engine itself.
The engine's crankshaft and connecting rods are forged steel, allowing the VQ35 to handle high-RPM loads and long-term wear better than engines with regular cast-metal internals. The engine block and cylinder heads use aluminum alloy for its thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance. Pistons are coated with a molybdenum-based lubricant to reduce friction.
In testing by Car and Driver, a 350Z reached 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and topped out at 156 mph. Beyond the 350Z, the VQ35 powered the 11th-generation Skyline sedan that began in 2001 and its sportier GT-focused version, sold as Infiniti in North America. The engine also appeared in the second-generation Stagea 350RX wagon and the Nissan Maxima through its final model year in 2023.
The VQ35 saw use in racing applications with modifications, including the 2009 Renault Megane Trophy and Dallara's T05 and T08 open-wheel cars from the Formula Renault 3.5 Series.