The Top 6 Infiniti G37 Upgrades. Infiniti first introduced the G37 model in 2008 to replace the previous G35. The G37 was produced from 2008 to 2013, and it has a formidable reputation as a fun luxury car with solid performance. Infiniti used a stroked version of the G35 engine, the VQ37VHR, under the hood. Inside the G37, the naturally aspirated VQ37VHR produces 330 hp and 270 ft-lb, and is the same engine used in Nissan’s high-performance 370z and 370z Nismo models.
While 330 horsepower is nothing to sneeze at, there is so much room for Infiniti G37 upgrades. Furthermore, the G37’s 3,500-4,000 lb curb weight can make it feel sluggish at times. Fortunately, there are numerous Infiniti G37 upgrades available to help improve the car’s performance. Most factory G37s dyno between 270-280 whp and 230-240 wtq, although a few bolt-ons can increase power by 30-40 whp. If you want even more power, you can use forced induction, which includes superchargers or turbochargers.
This post will go through the top six Infiniti G37 upgrades. We’ll look at what it takes to transform your standard G37 into a high-performance machine. There are numerous options for Infiniti G37 improvements, and we will go through the ones that will give you the most bang for your cash. Let’s examine what it takes to produce everything from a 300 horsepower G37 to a 1,000 horsepower G37.
G37 Infiniti Engine
As previously stated, Infiniti equipped the G37 with the naturally aspirated VQ37VHR engine. The VQ37VHR is an aluminum block V6 with a compression ratio of 11.0:1 and a top speed of 7,500 rpm. VVEL, Nissan’s unique version of variable valve timing (VVT), was added to the VQ-series on the VQ37VHR. Nissan and Infiniti both used the VQ37VHR in some of their most powerful vehicles, and it has acquired a great reputation for both performance and dependability.
Check out our previous post for more information on the four most prevalent VQ37VHR engine problems.
VQ37VHR Power Capacity
The VQ37VHR has serious power potential, as one would expect from a Nissan performance engine. A completely stock version will often dyno at 270-280 whp and 230-240 wtq, which is nowhere near what it is capable of. These engines can withstand a significant amount of power before failing.
In general, the stock internals’ limit is around 600-650 whp, or more than double what the stock tune produces. The block is expected to be good for another 150 whp, up to roughly 800 whp, before failing. This means you may go all out with bolt-on Infiniti G37 enhancements without fear of problems. You can also run a significant amount of boost through forced induction without having to worry about power failures.
The Top 6 Infiniti G37 Upgrades
The following are the top five Infiniti G37 performance upgrades:
- Intake
- High Flow Catalysts and Test Pipes
- ECU Programming
- Exhaust with a Catalytic Converter
- Suspension Improvements
- Induction by Forcing
*The year, drivetrain (RWD/AWD), and body style (coupe/sedan/convertible) all play a role in the fitment of G37 intake, exhaust, and suspension changes. We attempted to include links to as many possibilities as possible, but always double-check your individual fitment before making any purchases.
1) G37 Cold Air Intakes Upgraded Intakes
Adding an intake is one of the simplest Infiniti G37 improvements. Intakes are one of the most common modifications for any vehicle, and they work well on the VQ37VHR chassis. For most builds, the initial upgrade is an intake. Keep in mind that the VQ37VHR engine architecture features two intakes, one on each side.
Advantages of an Upgraded G37 Cold Air Intake
- +5 to 10 whp/wtq
- improved airflow
- increased surface area of the filter
- Reduced intake temperatures
- Increased engine noise
There are numerous advantages to installing a cold air intake on your G37. The most obvious benefit will be more power, and when calibrated, intake contributes roughly 5-10 whp. This is because the larger diameter intake tube and larger air filter size allow more air to be sucked in at a higher flow rate. However, the real benefit of cold air intakes will be felt when underhood temperatures rise and/or you add more mods to your build.
Cold air intakes allow the engine to get cooler air from the bottom of the front bumper area as the engine compartment begins to heat up. Furthermore, when you begin to add exhausts, headers, or forced induction, the improved flow from aftermarket intakes aids in the production of more total power. CAIs also show a minor gain in fuel economy and a slight increase in engine sounds.
Short Ram vs. Long Tube
Long tubes and short ram are the two major types of intakes for the G37. Long tube intakes are cold air intakes as well. The intake filters are routed far away from the throttle bodies, down below the front bumper. Short ram intakes, on the other hand, reduce the length of the intakes to make them as compact as possible. The concept is that fewer pipe implies the least amount of obstruction in getting air directly into the engine.
We strongly advocate long tube/cold air intakes over short ram design on the G37. Because of the short ram intakes, the filters are smack in the midst of the heated engine bay. This implies that as soon as the engine bay or ambient temperatures begin to heat up, the short ram transforms into a hot air intake. The long tube intakes, on the other hand, require a lot of extra plumbing to place the filter in the bay right behind the front bumper. This allows them to always be in the coldest air possible.
Recommendations for G37 Consumption
- Cold Air Intake System (Dry Filter) Takeda Attack Stage 2
- Dual Ultra Long Tube AIr Intake Kit by Stillen
- Short Ram Intake R2C
We recommend three intakes for Infiniti G37 upgrades: two long tubes and one short ram. The R2C short ram intake is our short ram option. We prefer cold air intakes over short rams, but if you truly want the ram look, the R2C is the way to go. It provides decent increases, at least until the engine bay begins to heat soak, and the huge filter is a significant improvement over stock.
The Takeda Attack Stage 2 Cold Air Intake System (with the dry filter) and the Stillen Dual Ultra Long Tube Air Intake Kit are the two long tubes we recommend. These two provide comparable performance gains, but we prefer the Stillen. The Stillen is the most popular G37 intake on the market, and it outperforms almost all of the competition.
The primary distinction between the Takeda and the Stillen is that the Stillen use twin filters, but the Takeda employs a single filter that joins both intake tubes. Because of its bigger surface area, the Stillen is able to catch a little more air than the Takeda, earning our selection.
2) G37 High Flow Cats/Test Pipes Upgraded
After an intake, one of the best Infiniti G37 upgrades is to replace the stock catalytic converters. Especially for older G37s approaching a decade and a half of ownership, where the stock cats are already failing. High flow cats (HFC) are a low-cost alteration that is simple to install, making them excellent G37 performance upgrades.
Benefits
- +10-20 whp/wtq (Cats with high flow)
- +10 to 25 wtq (Test pipes)
- Exhaust sound has been amplified.
- Exhaust backpressure has been reduced.
The biggest advantage of switching to Infiniti G37 HFC or test pipes is increased power. Depending on which option you choose, you will see at least 10 whp and up to 25 whp. Significant gains for such a short amount of pipe! G37 HFC and test pipes provide considerable gains in acceleration and top end power. Whereas intakes typically only improve top-end performance, HFC and test pipes improve low-end torque and responsiveness.
After replacing the stock cats on the G37, you will clearly notice an increase in exhaust volume. Resonated HFC and test pipes will reduce some of the volume increase and add depth to the tone, but it will be louder nonetheless, so be prepared.
Flow Cats vs. Test Pipes
The sole difference between test pipes and HFC pipes is that test pipes are catless. They both link the exhaust headers to the y-pipe section of the exhaust, but HFC contain catalytic converters.
The distinction between catted and catless pipes has ramifications for power as well as legality. Because test pipes are catless, they produce more power than HFC. However, the difference is actually quite minor, with perhaps 5 whp at most. They are also outlawed because to a scarcity of cats. This means they can only be used on track or competition vehicles, not on G37s driven on the street. Because HFC retains the catalytic converters, they are emissions compliant in most places.
We advocate using HFC instead of test pipes. They continue to provide essentially the same performance while remaining legal. It is crucial to note that in some jurisdictions, even HFC is prohibited, so make sure to check all local and state laws before making any purchases.
Recommendations for G37 High Flow Cats/Test Pipes
- HFC from Berk
- Berk Pipes for Testing
- HFC Fast Intentions
- Pipes with Quick Intentions
- HFC Motordyne
- Pipes for Motordyne Testing
Because their designs are nearly identical, all HFC and test pipe options perform nearly identically. For HFC and test pipes, we recommend Berk, Fast Intentions, and Motordyne because they have excellent reputations in the Infiniti and Nissan communities for continuously producing high-quality items. Their HFC and test pipes are widely accepted as platform standards.
3) Infiniti G37 ECU Tuning Upgrade
After we’ve gone over intakes and HFC/test pipes, we’ll take a look at one of the most fundamentally important Infiniti G37 performance upgrades: ECU tuning.
Benefits
- +15 to 25 whp/wtq
- The ability to flip between maps
- Maximize the benefits of other mods.
- Tune for other mods safely.
It’s difficult to comprehend all of the benefits of tuning the VQ37VHR. Not only will you be able to get more power out of your G37, but you will also be able to do so safely. Tuning a bone stock G37 will add 15-25 whp/wtq, and that’s just the beginning.
Other modifications, such as the aforementioned intakes or HFC/test pipes, alter the airflow and air-to-fuel ratio inside the combustion chamber. While the stock ECU can handle these changes, it does not fully utilize everything the new mods have to offer. ECU tuning is introduced. Tuners can use ECU tuning to change things like ignition timing, VVT timing, and air-to-fuel ratios. Tuners can increase the horsepower and torque of the VQ37VHR by altering these parameters.
This implies that while your intake and exhaust may have produced a total of 30 whp, a tune can improve it to 45 or even 50 whp. The more mods a tuner has, the more he or she can use improved air flow and fuelling to generate more power. Some mods, such as forced induction, must be tuned in order to be safely run on the G37. Without a tune, you risk significant engine damage due to the engine not functioning within the ideal parameters for your mods.
Recommendations for G37 ECU Tuning
- Tuner EcuTek for G37
- Tuner UpRev for G37
On the G37, there are two basic options for ECU tuning: chip tuners and custom tuners. Chip tuners are simple devices that provide only minor increases in horsepower and torque. They are sold as a one-size-fits-all per vehicle and cannot be tailored for individual configurations. Custom tuners, on the other hand, allow for the individualized adjustment of various settings for specific configurations.
Because of the availability of custom tuners, we do not advocate chip tuning for the G37 platform. Custom tuners are highly recommended. The technique for custom tuning the G37 is to purchase a custom tuner device and either make the parameter changes yourself or have them made by a reputable tuning specialist (also known as a tuner) – either in person or by email.
There are a few custom tuning options available, but EcuTek and UpRev are the best for the VQ37VHR equipped G37. Both of these are portable devices that connect to your car and computer. Users can make their own modifications after purchasing either, or they can hire a reputed tuning technician who is conversant with the G37 to do so.
There are plenty of reliable tuning pros for the G37 available. Finding a well-reviewed local dyno tuner is frequently the best option if possible. Visconti Tuning is our choice for e-tuning (email tuning). They provide solid gains and are a well-known tuning firm for a variety of platforms. EcuTek tuners are used by Visconti.
4) G37 Cat-Back Exhaust Upgrade
An aftermarket cat-back exhaust is the next best Infiniti G37 performance enhancement on our list. Cat-backs stretch all the way back from the cat/HFC/test pipe part of the exhaust. They are made up of the y-pipe, mid-pipes, and axel-back sections.
Benefits
- +5-10 whp
- +5-10 wtq
- Increased exhaust volume
- Exhaust tone selection
While Infiniti G37 cat-back exhausts increase power slightly (5-10 whp/wtq), the main reason most people install them is to improve exhaust sound. Cat-backs provide wider diameter pipe than stock (2.5″-3″), which significantly increases volume. It makes the tone deeper, raspier, and more forceful. They are also often made of 304 stainless steel, which makes them 10-25 pounds lighter than original exhaust.
G37 Cat-Back Exhaust Suggestions
- Cat-Back Exhaust for ARK GRiP G37 Sedan RWD/AWD
- Exhaust System ARK GRiP G37 Coupe RWD Cat-Back
- Cat-Back Exhaust for the ARK GRiP G37 Coupe AWD
- G37 Sedan RWD/AWD Cat-Back Exhaust Fast Intentions
- G37 Coupe RWD/AWD Cat-Back Exhaust by Fast Intentions
- Cat-Back Exhaust Motordyne G37 Coupe RWD
- Cat-Back Exhaust Motordyne G37 Sedan RWD
- Stillen Cat-Back Exhaust for Convertibles
There are four different G37 cat-backs available. They are all top-of-the-line G37 exhausts from reputable local businesses. They are all T304 SS and will produce 5-10 whp/wtq with tuning.
The true difference will be in the tone they provide. They each have their own distinct resonator systems and muffler designs, so it’s basically a matter of preference. The easiest way to decide which you like is to listen to both live, but YouTube snippets can provide a good contrast.
5) G37 Suspension Upgrades
Now that we’ve increased the power of the VQ37VHR, it’s time to discuss how to match the suspension to properly manage it. Coilovers and sway bars are the two most common suspension improvements for the G37. They all help with body roll and stability, giving you more control over the vehicle at all times.
Coilovers
Coilovers improve handling primarily by decreasing ride height and stiffening spring rates. They can be adjusted for track, competition, and everyday driving. We have discussed them in full in our G37 coilovers tutorial. Check out that guide for everything you need to know about G37 coilovers.
The Sway Bars
Advantages of Aftermarket Sway Bars over Stock Sway Bars:
- sturdier than stock
- lighter than standard
- Durabler than stock
Adjustable for various driving styles (track, daily, competition, etc.)
Sway bars (front and rear) are among the most crucial components.
Suspension upgrades for the G37 are available. While they may appear to be insignificant, they have a significant impact on drivability. Sway bars on the G37 improve handling by managing how the car transfers weight while cornering. The stiffer design prevents the sway bar from flexing and twisting, keeping the car more grounded and balanced. This decreases undesirable issues such as excessive body roll and understeer and helps the driver to more easily manage acceleration when cornering.
Sway Bar Recommendations for the G37
- 35 28 Hotchkis RWD Sway Bar Set
- Set of Hotchkis AWD Sway Bars
- Anti-Roll Kit (Coupe) Eibach 32 29
- (Sedan) Eibach Anti-Roll Kit
Hotchkis and Eibach make the top-of-the-line sway bars for the Infiniti G37. They are noticeably lighter and stiffer than stock. The proportions are slightly different, with the Hotchkis front sway bar measuring 35 mm and the Eibach measuring 32 mm. However, the Hotchkis rear sway bar is 28 mm in diameter as opposed to the Eibachr’s 29 mm.
Our recommendation is to go with the Hotchkis. Hotchkis claims their bars are 230% stiffer than stock while also being hollow, which saves weight. They are also the most popular set among the G37 community. Unfortunately, Eibach only made sway bars that fit RWD vehicles. So, if you need an AWD, you’ll have to go with the Hotchkis.
6) Forced Induction Infiniti G37
Forced induction is the ultimate Infiniti G37 modification. Forced induction, in layman’s terms, increases the amount of air moving into and out of the engine. It accomplishes this by forcing extra air into the combustion chamber through a turbocharger or supercharger. More fuel can be fed to the combustion chamber as more air flows into it, increasing power output.
Furthermore, turbochargers and superchargers (non-roots style) compress the air before it enters the engine (roots style compresses post-supercharger). Because compressed air is denser than atmospheric air, it contains more oxygen. With more oxygen, more fuel can be burned, resulting in more total power. Because turbochargers and superchargers force more air and fuel into the engine, they significantly increase power.
Forced induction kits are not cheap, typically costing $6,000 or more. Unfortunately, there are no additional options for increasing the VQ37VHR’s power. Bolt-ons will give you an extra 40-60 whp above stock, however forced induction is the only method to boost power.
Benefits
- +100-1,200 hp/tq
- Significantly increased response
- Increased power across the entire RPM range
- Superchargers vs. Turbochargers
As Infiniti G37 upgrades, superchargers and turbos operate differently yet achieve the same results. Turbos are linked to the engine’s exhaust manifold. An air compressor is powered by exhaust gases exiting the manifold. This air compressor compresses ambient air to a specific PSI before pushing it into the engine. Except for electric turbos, which use electricity instead of exhaust gases to power the compressor, all turbos operate in this manner.
Superchargers operate in a similar manner, however they are normally belt driven rather than exhaust gas propelled. Superchargers are classified into three types: roots, twin-screw, and centrifugal, with centrifugal being an option for the G37. Except for the fact that they are belt driven, centrifugal superchargers are nearly identical to turbochargers.
Mods to Support Forced Induction
If you want to incorporate forced induction as an Infiniti G37 upgrade, you’ll need to provide certain supporting mods as well. In general, full bolt-ons should be completed first, but this is somewhat dependant on your unique kit. You’ll also need to upgrade your fueling system to keep up with the boost. Furthermore, as more power is added, the internals and block begin to require reinforcement.
A larger fuel pump and fuel injectors are required at the very least to optimize your fueling system. Internals are enough for setups with peak power of 600-650 whp. Anything larger, on the other hand, will require stronger pistons, connecting rods, and head studs at the at least. The block is generally regarded to be good until roughly 800 whp, therefore only the most powerful builds will require an upgrade.
The manual transmission is incredibly strong and holds up nicely to power. The automatic, on the other hand, has a tendency to crater after 500 horsepower. To take greater power, it must be “built” with stronger internal components.
The majority of kits include everything needed, including all oil and coolant lines, and some include optional equipment like as intercoolers. Intercoolers are excellent for cooling charge air (compressed air) as it enters the engine. Colder air, like denser air, contains more oxygen, implying greater ultimate power.
Related : The Guide to the Nissan RB25 Engine
Recommendations for G37 Turbo and Supercharger
- Tuned Stillen Supercharger System
- Single Turbo Kit Soho
- Twin Turbo AAM Kits
The standard forced induction path for G37s varies according to transmission type. Turbochargers, rather than superchargers, are suggested for manual transmissions since they can handle more power. For automatics, the recommendation is to stick with superchargers because they provide less power.
We have three recommendations for turbo and supercharger packages for the Infiniti G37. The decision will mostly be determined by your power objectives. Superchargers are the simplest to install and build, but they also provide the least power. Their belt-driven design limits the amount of boost they can produce. The next step up is a turbo, or pair of turbos, capable of producing higher boost.
Stillen supercharger systems are recommended for Infiniti G37 superchargers. It includes everything you need to boost your VQ37VHR to 400 whp with a centrifugal supercharger. The Stillen kit is also CARB approved, making it an excellent solution for anyone who must maintain emissions compliance.
The Soho single turbo and AAM twin turbo kits are the turbo kits we suggest. Both of these companies offer a variety of kits ranging from 450 to 1,000 horsepower. The single turbo kit is simpler than the twin turbo kit, but it will slow more on larger setups. We would recommend the single turbo kit for projects under 650 whp and the twin turbo kits for power levels over that.
Summary of the Best Infiniti G37 Upgrades
The Infiniti G37 is a great car to drive even in stock form, but it begs to be altered. With a few modifications, you can easily transform your G37 from a 270-hp economy sedan into a 1,000-hp fire-breathing dragon. For a daily driver, you can also keep your build considerably more moderate and focus on lower quantities of power. Whatever your objectives are, this guide can assist you in achieving them.
We spoke about a variety of different strategies to boost performance on the G37. The finest bolt-ons for increasing power on the VQ37VHR are intakes, exhausts, and tune. They individually add roughly 10-20 whp on their own and can be combined to add 40-60 whp over stock (310-340 whp total). Forced induction is the answer for anyone looking for more power. The Stillen supercharger system increases output to 400 horsepower. Depending on the kit, the Soho or AAM will accept anywhere from 450 to 1,000+ whp.
Suspension improvements are also vital, and adding coilovers and/or sway bars improves handling and drivability significantly. If you’re considering about adding forced induction, don’t forget about the suspension upgrades. Your car may be powerful, but how well you control and drive it is what determines how fast it is.
