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3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 Engine VR30DDTT Overview – 2025 Nissan Z®

The VR30DDTT is Nissan’s advanced 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6, delivering 400 to 420 horsepower in the 2025 Nissan Z®. Engineered for performance, the VR30DDTT uses compact parallel turbos, integrated exhaust manifolds, and a wide torque band to deliver immediate throttle response and high-revving excitement. It’s available with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 9-speed automatic, depending on trim, and comes exclusively in rear-wheel drive.

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2025 Nissan Z®

Engine Specifications

Engine CodeVR30DDTT
Displacement3.0 liters (2,997 cc)
ConfigurationV6, 60° angle
ValvetrainDOHC, 24-valve with CVTCS
AspirationTwin-turbocharged (parallel turbos)
Fuel SystemDirect Injection
Compression Ratio10.3:1
Horsepower (Standard Trims)400 hp @ 6,400 rpm
Horsepower (NISMO)420 hp @ 6,400 rpm
Torque (Standard Trims)350 lb-ft @ 1,600–5,600 rpm
Torque (NISMO)384 lb-ft @ 2,000–5,200 rpm
Redline~6,800 rpm
Fuel TypePremium unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
Emissions CertificationLEV3-ULEV70 (CARB) / Tier 3 Bin 70 (EPA)
Cooling SystemWater-to-air intercoolers, engine oil cooler
Transmission Pairings6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic
Drive LayoutRear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Engine Block/HeadAluminum alloy

KEY TECHNOLOGIES

Twin Turbochargers

The VR30DDTT uses compact parallel turbos for quicker spool and broader power delivery. Integrated exhaust manifolds reduce lag, and electric wastegates optimize boost control.

Dual CVTCS Valve Timing

Continuously adjusts both intake and exhaust cam timing for improved throttle response, smoother idle, and stronger midrange torque.

Water-to-Air Intercoolers

Efficient liquid-cooled intercoolers reduce intake temperatures for more consistent performance and better detonation resistance at high RPMs or during repeated hard pulls.

Optional Manual or Automatic

Standard trims offer a 6-speed manual or available 9-speed automatic, while the NISMO trim comes exclusively with the tuned 9-speed auto for quicker downshifts and launch control.

Rear-Wheel Drive Architecture

Engineered for pure sports car feel, all Z models with the VR30DDTT are rear-wheel drive only, giving drivers classic dynamics and a more connected experience.

VR30DDTT Engine Models

2025 Nissan Z Trims with VR30DDTT:

VR30DDTT Models

Available Trims:

  • Z Sport RWD (6-speed manual)
  • Z Sport Automatic RWD (9-speed automatic)
  • Z Performance RWD (6-speed manual)
  • Z Performance Automatic RWD (9-speed automatic)
  • Z NISMO RWD (9-speed automatic only)
Explore the 2025 Nissan Z

Frequently Asked Questions: 3.0L VR30DDTT Engine

What engine powers the 2025 Nissan Z?

All 2025 Nissan Z trims use the VR30DDTT engine, a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that delivers either 400 hp or 420 hp depending on the trim.

How much horsepower and torque does the VR30DDTT engine produce?

Standard trims (Sport & Performance): 400 hp / 350 lb-ft

NISMO trim: 420 hp / 384 lb-ft

Is the VR30DDTT engine turbocharged?

Yes. It uses two compact parallel turbochargers, one for each bank of cylinders, along with electric wastegates and integrated exhaust manifolds for fast response and reduced lag.

What kind of fuel does the VR30DDTT engine require?

The engine requires premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher) for optimal performance and longevity.

Does the Nissan Z offer a manual transmission with the VR30DDTT?

Yes. The 6-speed manual transmission is available on all trims except NISMO, which uses a 9-speed automatic only for quicker shifts and track-optimized tuning.

What is the redline of the VR30DDTT?

The engine has a redline of approximately 6,800 rpm, offering high-revving performance with a smooth top-end.

Is the VR30DDTT engine reliable?

Yes. It’s been used across Nissan and Infiniti performance models since 2016 and has a strong reputation for durability, tunability, and consistent performance when maintained properly.

How does the VR30DDTT compare to the old 370Z’s VQ37VHR engine?

The VR30DDTT makes more torque, better low-end response, and stronger peak power, while also being more efficient. It replaces the naturally aspirated VQ37VHR in the new-generation Z.

Is the VR30DDTT engine only used in the Z?

No. It’s also used in several Infiniti models, including the Q50 and Q60, although output and drivetrain options vary. The Z is RWD-only, while Infiniti versions offered AWD.

Which 2025 Nissan Z trims use the VR30DDTT engine?

All of them: Sport RWD (6-speed manual), Sport Automatic RWD (9-speed automatic), Performance RWD (6-speed manual), Performance Automatic RWD (9-speed automatic), NISMO RWD (9-speed automatic only).