It is based on the Nissan VG engine and was only used for the 1992, 1993, and 1994 model years.

This engine has an iron block, aluminum cylinder heads with 4 valves per cylinder and dual overhead camshafts, variable valve timing on the intake camshafts, coil-on-plug ignition, and an available variable intake manifold (5-speed only).

The low under-hood clearance on the 1992–1994 J30 Nissan Maxima demanded a special head to be developed with 30°, rather than 46°, between the valves.

Lack of space also demanded a redesigned camshaft drive system, so a special chain drive was developed.

The camshafts are driven by a single primary and two secondary chains.