Introduction: Unlocking the Full Potential of Your Nissan GT-R

The Nissan GT-R has earned its legendary status through a blend of advanced all-wheel drive, a twin-turbocharged V6, and sophisticated electronics. But even the stock VR38DETT engine has significant untapped potential. For enthusiasts chasing serious horsepower—whether for track days, drag racing, or simply the thrill of overwhelming acceleration—turbo upgrades are the single most effective modification. The right turbo kit can increase airflow and boost pressure dramatically, pushing power from the factory 565 hp well past 800 hp with proper supporting mods.

However, not all turbo kits are created equal. Each brand brings a different philosophy: some prioritize lightning-fast spool for street response, others aim for top-end dominance on the race track. In this guide, we break down five of the best GT-R turbo upgrades, covering the key specs, real-world power gains, and what makes each kit unique. We also discuss the critical supporting modifications that ensure your build is reliable and tunable. Whether you are a seasoned tuner or a first-time GT-R owner looking for a major power jump, this comprehensive breakdown will help you choose the right path.

1. HKS GT-R Turbo Kit

HKS is one of the most respected names in Japanese performance engineering, and their GT-R turbo kits are designed to deliver a balanced mix of power and drivability. The HKS GT-R Turbo Kit (often part of the HKS GTIII series) is a direct bolt-on upgrade that stays true to the twin-scroll philosophy.

Key Specifications

  • Turbo Type: Twin-scroll turbochargers (typically GTIII 5R or 6R variants)
  • Power Output: 700–800 hp (depending on boost level and supporting mods)
  • Features: Lightweight billet compressor wheels, improved spool time, cast stainless steel turbine housings

Performance Highlights

The twin-scroll design of the HKS kit helps reduce turbo lag by keeping the exhaust pulses separate, allowing the turbine to spool with less backpressure. When paired with a proper tune, these turbos reach full boost as early as 3,500–4,000 rpm. The result is a powerband that feels nearly as responsive as a smaller single turbo, but with the top-end capacity of a larger setup. HKS also offers different trim levels: the GTIII-5R is ideal for those targeting 700 whp on pump gas, while the GTIII-6R can push toward 800+ whp with race fuel or E85.

Installation Considerations

The HKS kit is designed to work with the stock engine bay layout, but it demands upgraded fuel injectors, a high-flow fuel pump, and a custom ECU tune (often using Cobb Accessport or HKS F-Con). You should also consider upgrading the intercooler and intake system to maximize airflow. HKS provides detailed installation manuals and excellent customer support, making this a favorite among both DIY builders and professional shops.

For more details, visit the official HKS website: HKS Performance.

2. Garrett GTX2867R Turbo

Garrett Motion is a global leader in turbocharger technology, and their GTX2867R is a popular single-turbo upgrade for the GT-R when replacing the factory twins with a larger single unit (often as part of a full conversion kit). The GTX2867R offers outstanding efficiency and fast spool, making it a go‑to for street-focused builds that also see occasional track use.

Key Specifications

  • Turbo Type: Dual ball bearing with advanced aerodynamic compressor wheel
  • Power Output: 500–600 hp (when used in a twin setup; 700+ hp in single applications)
  • Features: Lightweight titanium-aluminide turbine wheel, high-flow compressor housing, integrated wastegate option

Performance Highlights

The Garrett GTX2867R is known for its exceptional spool characteristics—full boost can arrive below 4,000 rpm even on a 3.8‑liter engine. This makes the car extremely responsive in daily driving and corner exit situations. The dual ball bearing core reduces internal friction, meaning the turbo spins up faster and with less heat soak. For GT-R owners who want to maintain the factory twin‑turbo layout, two GTX2867Rs can be mounted on custom manifolds to deliver well over 800 hp with excellent transient response.

Installation Considerations

Because the GTX2867R is a standalone turbocharger (not a complete kit), you will need custom exhaust manifolds, downpipes, and intake piping. Many reputable shops (like Shearer Customs or AMS Performance) offer complete twin‑Garrett conversion kits that include everything. Be prepared to also upgrade the fuel system (injectors, pump, lines) and the engine management system. The Garrett GTX2867R is extremely durable and can handle sustained high‑boost levels, making it a solid choice for a serious street/track build.

Learn more: Garrett Motion Official Site.

3. Tomei ARMS Turbo Kit

Tomei has a reputation for building precision‑machined parts for Japanese performance cars, and their ARMS (Advanced Racing & Mechanical System) turbo kit for the GT-R is a testament to that heritage. This kit focuses on high responsiveness while retaining the factory twin‑turbo layout.

Key Specifications

  • Turbo Type: High-flow ball bearing turbochargers
  • Power Output: Up to 700 hp (with supporting modifications)
  • Features: Inconel turbine wheels, billet compressor wheels, ported turbine housings

Performance Highlights

The Tomei ARMS kit is engineered for quick throttle response and minimal lag. The use of Inconel (a high-nickel superalloy) for the turbine wheels allows the turbos to withstand higher exhaust gas temperatures without cracking, which is especially useful for sustained high‑rpm runs. The billet compressor wheels are custom profiled to flow more air at lower pressure ratios, meaning you get strong mid‑range torque without sacrificing top‑end. Tomei reports a 0.2‑second improvement in 60–100 km/h acceleration compared to stock turbos at the same boost level.

Installation Considerations

Like most twin‑turbo upgrades, the Tomei ARMS kit requires higher‑flow fuel injectors (at least 1,000 cc), a high‑pressure fuel pump, and a custom ECU tune. The kit is relatively compact, fitting within the stock engine bay without major modifications. However, you will need to upgrade the intercooler to handle the increased heat load. Tomei also offers a line of supporting parts (oil lines, gaskets) that ease the installation process.

Visit Tomei’s website: Tomei Powered.

4. Blitz K5 Turbo Kit

Blitz is another iconic Japanese tuner brand, and their K5 series turbo kit is designed for those who demand consistent performance on both street and track. The K5 kit emphasizes cooling and durability, using a patented turbine housing design that minimizes heat soak under hard use.

Key Specifications

  • Turbo Type: Twin-scroll design with integrated wastegate
  • Power Output: 650–750 hp (conservative tune can yield 700+ whp)
  • Features: Strengthened compressor housing, enlarged internal wastegate port, high‑temperature coating options

Performance Highlights

The Blitz K5 kit is known for its excellent heat management. The turbine housing is cast from a special high‑silicon alloy that absorbs and dissipates heat more effectively than conventional cast iron. This reduces the risk of pre‑ignition and allows for more aggressive ignition timing. The twin‑scroll arrangement retains the factory exhaust manifold separation, ensuring quick spool. On the dyno, the K5 kit typically gains 150–200 hp over stock turbos with the same boost pressure, thanks to improved flow efficiency.

Installation Considerations

Blitz recommends upgrading the fuel system to at least 1,000 cc injectors and a Walbro or equivalent fuel pump. The kit is a direct bolt‑on for GT‑R models from 2009‑2021, but you may need to modify the intake piping for the dual blow‑off valves. A quality intercooler upgrade (such as the Blitz LM3) is also recommended to keep intake temperatures low. Tuning can be done via any major platform (Cobb, EcuTek, Haltech).

More info: Blitz Japan.

5. AEM Turbo Upgrade Kit

AEM (Advanced Engine Management) is best known for their engine management systems, but their turbo upgrade kit for the GT-R is a complete solution that integrates seamlessly with AEM’s tuning ecosystem. This kit is particularly popular among tuners who want full adjustability and data logging capability.

Key Specifications

  • Turbo Type: Ball bearing turbochargers with billet compressor wheels
  • Power Output: 600–700 hp (can be pushed higher with infinity programmable ECU)
  • Features: Adjustable boost control solenoid included, pre‑calibrated for AEM Series 2 or Infinity ECU, plug‑and‑play wiring harness

Performance Highlights

The AEM kit is unique because it comes with a boost control solenoid and a pre‑configured base map for AEM ECUs. This makes the initial tuning process much quicker and reduces the risk of engine damage. The turbos themselves are built to flow efficiently across a broad rpm range, delivering strong low‑end torque without choking up top. AEM’s data logging capabilities allow the user to fine‑tune boost, fuel, and timing curves in real time, which is invaluable when pushing the limits of the engine.

Installation Considerations

Because the AEM kit is designed to work with their own ECU, the installation is straightforward if you are already running AEM engine management. For cars still on the factory ECU, you will need to switch to an AEM system (Series 2 or Infinity). The kit includes all necessary gaskets, hardware, and intake piping. AEM recommends upgrading the fuel injectors to at least 1,200 cc and using a surge tank setup for fuel delivery. The kit is also compatible with aftermarket intercoolers and exhaust systems.

Check AEM’s official site: AEM Electronics.

Supporting Modifications: The Foundation for Reliability

No turbo upgrade will reach its full potential—or stay reliable—without appropriate supporting modifications. Here are the critical areas to address:

Fuel System Upgrades

Stock fuel injectors (typically 450 cc) and fuel pumps cannot supply enough volume for 700+ hp. Upgrading to 1,000–1,200 cc injectors and a high‑flow in‑tank pump (or a surge tank with external pumps) is mandatory. Ethanol blends (E85) require even higher flow rates.

Intercooler and Intake Systems

Increased boost generates higher intake air temperatures. A large front‑mounted intercooler (FMIC) or a high‑efficiency charge‑air cooler is essential. Pair it with a low‑restriction intake system—either cold air intakes or a high‑flow filter setup—to minimize pressure drop.

Exhaust System

Restrictive factory downpipes and exhaust are a bottleneck. A cat‑less (or high‑flow cat) downpipe and a 3‑inch or larger exhaust system will reduce backpressure and allow the turbos to spool faster. This also unlocks additional horsepower gains.

Engine Management and Tuning

All of the upgraded hardware means nothing without a proper calibration. A standalone ECU (such as AEM Infinity, MoTeC, or Haltech) or a flash‑tune (Cobb Accessport, EcuTek) is required to adjust fuel maps, ignition timing, and boost control. A professional dyno tune is strongly recommended to ensure safe air/fuel ratios and to avoid knock.

Cooling and Lubrication

Higher power output generates more heat. Upgraded oil coolers, a larger radiator, and possibly an additional transmission cooler help keep temperatures in check. High‑performance synthetic oil with a suitable viscosity (often 5W‑40 or 10W‑60) is essential for protecting the VR38DETT under high boost.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Turbo Upgrade for Your GT-R

The Nissan GT-R is a blank canvas for power, and the turbo upgrade you choose will define your car’s driving character. The five options we covered—HKS, Garrett, Tomei, Blitz, and AEM—each offer a distinct balance of power, spool, durability, and integration. If your priority is immediate response for weekend back‑road blasts, the Garrett GTX2867R or Tomei ARMS kit is a superb choice. For those chasing eight‑second drag times or 1,000‑hp benchmarks, the HKS GTIII‑6R or a custom Garrett twin setup will get you there with the right supporting mods.

Remember that a turbo is only one part of a larger system. Invest in fuel, cooling, and tuning simultaneously, and you’ll unlock the true monster that lives inside the R35’s V6. Whichever path you take, the result will be a GT-R that redefines “overkill” in the best possible way.