2017 GT-R Power Upgrades: How Much HP Can You Really Get?

The 2017 Nissan GT-R, boasting a 565 hp 3.8L twin-turbo V6 engine, presents substantial upgrade opportunities, with potential enhancements pushing power past the 1000 hp mark.

Basic modifications include air intake and exhaust system upgrades, which can boost horsepower considerably for a moderate investment.

More comprehensive solutions involve stage packages, like Stage 1 which integrates intake, exhaust, and ECU tuning for up to 620 hp. Successively higher stages, culminating in Stage 3 with built engines and upgraded turbos, can elevate output to over 900 hp.

Costs escalate with intensity of modifications, impacting aspects like reliability and warranty.

For enthusiasts aiming to maximize their GT-R’s capabilities, exploring these modifications will unveil thrilling potentials.

What Is the Stock Power Output of a 2017 GT-R?

The 2017 Nissan GT-R features a 3.8L twin-turbo V6 engine. It produces 565 horsepower at 6800 RPM and 467 lb-ft of torque at 3300 RPM. The model enhances performance compared to previous iterations.

Real-world testing shows that the GT-R can achieve higher power outputs under optimal conditions. Dyno results may vary based on trim levels and regional specifications. The GT-R Premium and Track Editions may offer slight differences in performance metrics.

Key performance aspects include:

What Are the Basic Bolt-On Upgrades for the 2017 GT-R?

Enhancing the performance of the 2017 Nissan GT-R through basic bolt-on upgrades offers significant benefits in terms of power and efficiency.

Key initial modifications include air intake systems, exhaust upgrades, and ECU tuning, each contributing to noticeable increases in horsepower and overall vehicle performance.

These upgrades require varying levels of investment and technical expertise to install, ensuring compatibility with existing systems is crucial to maintain vehicle integrity and performance.

Step 1: Air Intake Modifications

To enhance the performance of the 2017 Nissan GT-R, consider air intake modifications. These upgrades improve horsepower and set the stage for further enhancements.

Here are the options:

1. Cold Air Intake Systems: Relocate the intake to cooler air outside the engine compartment. Gain up to 20 horsepower. Moderate installation complexity. Costs range from $300 to $500.
2. Short Ram Intakes: Located within the engine bay. Provide quicker throttle response and a boost of 10-15 horsepower. Easy installation. Costs between $200 and $350.
3. High-Flow Air Filters: Replace existing filters for improved airflow. Gain about 5 horsepower. Simplest installation. Costs around $50 to $100.
4. Performance Air Box: Redesigned air intake box increases volume and airflow. Potential gain of 15 horsepower. More complex installation than filters. Costs between $250 and $400.

Consider the GT-R’s maintenance schedule and compatibility with existing systems.

Recalibration of the ECU may be necessary. Higher power outputs may lead to 2017 GT-R transmission issues without corresponding upgrades.

Step 2: Exhaust System Upgrades

Upgrading the exhaust system of a 2017 Nissan GT-R enhances performance. It improves airflow and reduces back pressure.

The choice between a catback and full exhaust system affects power gains and costs.

Catback Exhaust Systems:

• Adds 15-25 horsepower.
• Costs $1,000 to $2,500.
• Installs easily and quickly.
• Modest upgrade; minimal impact on resale value.

Full Exhaust Systems:

• Increases power by 30+ horsepower.
• Costs over $3,000.
• Requires professional installation.
• May stress engine components and affect resale value.

Weigh performance gains against costs and potential impacts on reliability and market value when considering exhaust upgrades.

Step 3: ECU Tuning Options

ECU tuning maximizes the 2017 Nissan GT-R’s performance by recalibrating the engine control unit. This process enhances horsepower, improves drivability, and maintains reliability.

1. Cobb Accessport V3: Provides a user-friendly interface for adjustments. Gains range from 50 to 100 horsepower. Price: approximately $900.

2. EcuTek ProECU Tuning Suite: Enables extensive customization of fuel maps and ignition timing. Typical gains are 50 to 100 horsepower.

Requires a professional tuner. Cost: around $1,200 including licensing and dyno time.

3. UpRev GT-R Performance Tuning: Balances affordability with performance. Offers gains of 40 to 90 horsepower.

Costs about $700, including tuning and cable.

4. HKS ECU Flash: Adjusts engine parameters for optimal performance. Yields 60 to 100 horsepower increases.

Priced at approximately $1,500, reflecting reliability in addressing common 2017 GT-R recalls.

How Much Power Can Stock GT-R Internals Handle?

Stock GT-R internals have specific power handling limits. The 2017 GT-R’s connecting rods support up to approximately 650 horsepower.

Exceeding this limit risks failure. Stock pistons manage factory boost levels effectively.

However, substantial power increases necessitate piston upgrades to prevent failure. The crankshaft exhibits strong durability, efficiently supporting the engine’s stock power output.

Here are the tolerance levels of key internal components:

What Are the Different Power Stage Packages Available?

Below is a detailed breakdown of common stage packages, highlighting the components included, their cost, and the realistic power outputs they achieve.

Step 1: Stage 1 Package

For enthusiasts enhancing the 2017 Nissan GT-R, the Stage 1 package offers effective performance upgrades. This package targets minor issues, including the car’s 8-inch touchscreen integration for improved monitoring.

Key components of the Stage 1 package include:

1. ECU Remapping: Custom tuning boosts power by 40-50 horsepower.
2. Performance Air Intake System: Replaces the factory intake, improving airflow and throttle response.
3. High-Flow Exhaust System: Enhances exhaust flow, increasing power by 15-20 horsepower.
4. Intercooler Upgrade: Improves cooling efficiency, crucial for sustained performance.

These modifications enhance performance while maintaining reliability and daily drivability, making the Stage 1 package a popular choice for modifications.

Step 2: Stage 2 Package

The Stage 2 package for the 2017 Nissan GT-R enhances performance and efficiency.

Key components include:

1. High-Flow Fuel Injectors: These injectors increase fuel flow for higher boost levels, optimizing air-fuel ratios and protecting the engine.
2. Upgraded Fuel Pump: This pump supports the high-flow injectors, ensuring consistent fuel delivery for reliable performance.
3. Advanced Engine Tuning: Custom ECU tuning maximizes power while maintaining stability and efficiency.
4. Enhanced Turbo Boost Control: Modifications to the turbo system raise boost pressure, significantly increasing horsepower and torque.

These upgrades elevate the GT-R’s output to approximately 740 horsepower, enhancing its competitiveness on the road and track.

Step 3: Stage 3 and Beyond

Advancing to Stage 3 and beyond, Nissan GT-R owners require extensive modifications for higher power outputs. Key considerations include:

1. Engine Build: A complete engine rebuild is necessary. Strengthened components like pistons, rods, and crankshafts support over 1000 horsepower. Costs exceed $25,000 based on parts quality.
2. Turbocharger Upgrades: Substantial turbo upgrades are required. Options range from larger bolt-on turbos to custom setups. Prices start at $5,000 and can exceed $15,000, enabling 900+ horsepower.
3. Transmission Reinforcement: Upgraded transmissions must handle increased torque. This includes stronger gears, clutches, and software updates. Costs range from $10,000 to $20,000.
4. Supporting Modifications: Install high-flow fuel injectors, upgraded fuel pumps, and enhanced cooling systems. Robust ECU tuning ensures safe and efficient operation. Costs start at $2,000 and increase with complexity.

What Supporting Mods Are Required at Each Power Level?

Upgrading the Nissan GT-R for higher power levels requires specific supporting modifications. As power targets increase, enhancements in transmission, cooling, and fueling systems become essential.

At up to 600 hp, use stock transmission and cooling. Upgrade injectors for fueling. At 600-800 hp, install an upgraded clutch, a larger intercooler, and dual fuel pumps. For 800-1000 hp, fit a built transmission, a high-capacity radiator, and high-flow fuel rails.

At 1000-1200 hp, employ reinforced gear sets, an enhanced cooling system, and upgraded fuel lines. For 1200+ hp, implement a full transmission build, advanced cooling solutions, and a custom fuel system.

Each modification enhances performance and reliability at increased power levels.

How Much Does It Cost to Upgrade a 2017 GT-R?

Upgrading a 2017 Nissan GT-R varies by power level. Each upgrade involves parts, labor, and tuning costs. Below is a concise cost breakdown.

For upgrades to 600 horsepower, parts cost $5,000. Labor and tuning add $1,800. Upgrades to 600-800 horsepower require $10,000 in parts.

Labor and tuning rise to $2,700. For over 800 horsepower, parts exceed $15,000. Labor and tuning exceed $3,500. Each power level necessitates specific modifications for optimal performance.

What Are the Reliability Concerns at Different Power Levels?

When upgrading the 2017 Nissan GT-R, address reliability concerns tied to increased power levels. Higher horsepower elevates stress on vehicle components, risking wear or failure.

Identify common failure points at various power stages and implement preventive measures for optimal performance.

Common Failure Points and Preventive Measures

1. Up to 600 HP:
   • Failure Points: Factory transmission and drivetrain experience mild strain.
   • Preventive Measures: Perform regular maintenance; monitor transmission fluid quality.
2. 600-800 HP:
   • Failure Points: Transmission wear increases; turbocharger strain escalates.
   • Preventive Measures: Upgrade to forged internals; enhance cooling systems; use high-quality synthetic lubricants.
3. 800-1000 HP:
   • Failure Points: Engine internals face high stress, especially connecting rods and pistons.
   • Preventive Measures: Build engine with upgraded internals; ensure comprehensive tuning for stability.
4. 1000+ HP:
   • Failure Points: Extreme stress affects nearly all mechanical systems.
   • Preventive Measures: Implement custom engineering solutions; schedule frequent inspections; engage performance specialists for adjustments.

Adopting these measures enhances the reliability of a high-powered GT-R, ensuring performance upgrades yield speed and durability.

How Does GT-R Power Modification Affect Warranty Coverage?

Modifying a 2017 Nissan GT-R affects warranty coverage significantly.

1. Voided Manufacturer’s Warranty: Nissan typically voids the factory warranty when major modifications occur, particularly to the engine, exhaust, or ECU.
2. Dealer Policies: Dealers vary in their approach to modifications. Some may permit certified professional installations, while others strictly oppose any alteration from original specifications.
3. Aftermarket Warranty Options: Third-party providers offer warranties for modified vehicles. These warranties are often costly and come with conditions limiting coverage.
4. Impact on Resale Value: Modifications can decrease resale value. Potential buyers may hesitate due to concerns over reliability and previous usage.

Which GT-R tuning companies are most reputable?

Several companies excel in tuning the Nissan GT-R. AMS Performance specializes in Alpha packages, significantly increasing horsepower. Their Alpha Omega package achieves over 2,700 horsepower.

Switzer Performance offers the P800 Package, enhancing GT-R output to around 800 horsepower through upgraded turbos and ECU tuning.

Nismo provides factory-developed upgrades that integrate with the GT-R’s design, ensuring reliable performance.

Each company prioritizes both power and dependability, making them reputable choices for GT-R enthusiasts.

Can you daily drive a heavily modified GT-R?

Many enthusiasts daily drive modified GT-Rs. They balance performance upgrades with usability.

Suspension tuning, tire choice, and noise levels are crucial for comfort. Aggressive suspension can cause a harsh ride. Adjustable setups can enhance flexibility between performance and comfort.

High-performance tires provide traction and maintain reasonable noise levels. Loud exhausts can impact daily driving; exhausts with variable control manage noise.

Regular maintenance of modifications ensures reliability. With careful choices, a GT-R can be a thrilling yet practical daily driver.

What’s the highest reliable horsepower achieved on a VR38DETT?

The highest reliable horsepower achieved on a VR38DETT engine is approximately 1,200 horsepower.

This figure results from extensive modifications, including upgraded pistons, stronger connecting rods, and enhanced fuel delivery systems.

Turbochargers and intercooling systems also undergo significant upgrades to manage increased output.

Advanced ECU tuning ensures all components work together effectively.

This tuning maintains reliability and drivability while transforming the GT-R into a formidable performance vehicle.

How does GT-R power modification affect resale value?

Modifying a Nissan GT-R can lower its resale value because buyers worry about reliability and quality.

However, high-quality upgrades may help maintain or even increase value, especially if they can be easily removed.

Mild, reversible changes are best for keeping the car appealing to future buyers.

Wrapping Up

Enhancing the horsepower of a 2017 Nissan GT-R involves a multifaceted approach that includes basic bolt-on upgrades, internal engine modifications, and supporting modifications tailored to desired power levels.

Successful power upgrades demand a deep understanding of component tolerances and the integration of reputable tuning solutions.

While these enhancements can significantly elevate performance, they must be balanced with considerations regarding reliability, warranty implications, and potential impacts on resale value.