1991-1996 Infiniti G20: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1991-1996 Infiniti G20 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (manual)
- Antilock brakes
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Ride (early models)
- Climate controls
- Acceleration (early automatic transmission)
- Engine noise
- Road noise
Vehicle Highlights
Nissan's upscale division moved into the entry-level arena for 1991 with a front-drive compact 4-door sedan called the G20. Under the hood sat a 2.0-liter dual-cam 4-cylinder, same as in the Nissan Sentra SE-R. A 5-speed manual shift was standard; 4-speed automatic optional. Steering has variable power assist, while brakes are antilock 4-wheel discs. Well-equipped from the start, the only factory options were leather upholstery and a glass moonroof. Motorized front seatbelts were standard, as the G20 lacked an airbag.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Infiniti G20 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 46 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1991-1996 Infiniti G20. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1991-1996 Infiniti G20.
Year to Year Changes
1992 Infiniti G20:
Standard power door locks were revised, and all-season tires joined the option list.
1993 Infiniti G20:
Driver- and passenger-side airbags were added in midyear, when the '93s gained substantial revisions, including a new 4-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift controls.
1994 Infiniti G20:
After ample modification in mid 1993, the G20 continued into '94 with minimal change. In spring 1994, a sporty G20t Touring sedan joined the base model.
1995 Infiniti G20:
Rocker panels switched from black to body color, and the Touring model added all-season tires.
1996 Infiniti G20:
Except for fake wood interior trim in the optional Leather Appointment Group, the G20 saw no notable change for 1996--the model's final season.
Our road test for the 1991-1996 Infiniti G20 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1991-1996 Infiniti G20 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1991-1996 Infiniti G20 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The 5-speed gearbox blends neatly with the fast-revving engine for a lively feel, whether off the line or meandering through tight, twisty roads. However, the automatic transmission cuts rather sharply into performance, shifting too often even on moderate uphill grades and impairing standing-start action. As for economy, we averaged 21.7 mpg with an automatic G20. Though wind noise is low, road and engine noise can be a problem. However, the G20 suffers a stiff, jolting ride as soon as any big bumps appear. On the plus side, softer suspension bushings, introduced in mid 1993, deliver a ride that's still firm, but no longer too stiff on bumpy roads. In any year, body lean is minimal, power steering is quick and responsive, and brakes respond eagerly. Space is more than adequate for four adults, and the handsome dashboard is well-organized. Gauges are clearly marked; controls handy, except for a low heat/vent panel. A low beltline and thin roof pillars contribute to a commanding driving position and good visibility. Firm front bucket seats offer good support. Six-footers can ride in back without feeling cramped. The ample trunk has a long, flat floor, and its lid opens from bumper height to more than 90 degrees.
Value for the Money
Though capable and well-designed, the small Infiniti's lack lies in its engine department--neither as quiet nor as quick as expected, especially with automatic--and in the overly taut suspension. Even so, it's a spirited machine with a sensible design, thus worth a test-drive.
Though capable and well-designed, the small Infiniti's lack lies in its engine department--neither as quiet nor as quick as expected, especially with automatic--and in the overly taut suspension. Even so, it's a spirited machine with a sensible design, thus worth a test-drive.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Infiniti G20 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 46 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Infiniti G20 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Infiniti G20 .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
A campaign was conducted to improve automatic-transmission life by installing an inline filter and auxiliary oil cooler. (1991)
Automatic transmission:
If the transmission won't upshift to third or fourth or slips on acceleration, the high clutch assembly may be burnt and debris gets lodged in the valve body. (1991-93)
Automatic transmission:
The dropping resistor on the inner left fender can be damaged by rain or windshield-washer fluid causing harsh, noisy, or jerky transmission shifts. A new resistor, with a protective cover, is required to fix the problem. (1994)
Dashboard lights:
If the check-engine light comes on, but the technician can find no faulty components, there may be inductive interference on the wiring harness leading to the onboard computer. Separating and isolating the wires from one another cures the problem. (1994-95)
Engine stalling:
If a cold engine stalls when coming to a stop and is hard to restart, replacing the hydraulic-valve lash adjusters may restore performance. (1991-92)
Fuel odors:
Fuel odors on cold start can be solved by a free repair that may include new fuel injectors, hoses, fuel rails, regulator, and wiring. (1991-92)
Transmission noise:
If the automatic transmission chirps when shifting from second to third, a redesigned input shaft and high clutch assembly with an improved friction material should eliminate the problem. (1991)
Trunk latch:
The electric trunk-release solenoid may stick in the open position, preventing the trunk from closing properly. (1992-94)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $710 |
| Alternator | $790 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $940 |
| Brakes | $200 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $485 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $430 |
| Exhaust System | $520 |
| Radiator | $480 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $820 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $615 |
Our price chart for this generation Infiniti G20 details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1996 | |||
| G20 | $2,400-3,000 | $1,700-2,200 | $500-600 |
| 1995 | |||
| G20 | $2,000-2,600 | $1,400-1,800 | $300-400 |
| 1994 | |||
| G20 | $1,700-2,200 | $1,100-1,500 | $300 |
| 1993 | |||
| G20 | $1,500-2,000 | $1,000-1,300 | $200-300 |
| 1992 | |||
| G20 | $1,300-1,700 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| 1991 | |||
| G20 | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Infiniti G20 include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 100.4 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 174.8 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 66.7 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 54.7 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2977 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 14.2 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.9 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.8 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.0 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.3 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 32.2 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
A 2.0-liter dual-cam 4-cylinder engine with sequential fuel injection went into all G20 sedans, hooked to a 5-speed manual gearbox or optional 4-speed automatic transmission. Automatics got electronic shift controls in mid-1993.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.0 / 122 | 140 | 132 | 5-speed manual: 24/32 4-speed automatic: 22/28 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 21.7 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Japan
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Infiniti G20 include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1991-1996 Infiniti G20 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1991-92:
Rear seatbelt buckle may engage only partially.
1991-96 19 states and D.C.:
Fuel-filler tube assembly can corrode, resulting in leakage.
1993-95:
Harness-connector protector near seatbelt pretensioner can ignite, due to proximity to combustion gas generated by pretensioner when device is triggered; fire can then occur in passenger compartment.
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