The new engine, called the VQ35HR, will output 303hp (225kW) and 262lb-ft (355Nm) of torque – 28 more ponies than the current version. It will appear in both the 2009 M35 and AWD M35x, reports TheCarConnection. The M35 will also be available with a new seven-speed automatic transmission, while the M35x will stick with the older five-speeder.
The VQ35HR is able to rev up to 7,500rpm and uses 10% less fuel than the outgoing motor despite its extra performance. Improvements to the engine design include lighter mass, reduced friction, and reduced piston side-force as a result of asymmetrical piston skirts and longer connecting rods. There’s also variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.