1999-2002 Infiniti G20: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1999-2002 Infiniti G20 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Instruments/controls
- Exterior finish
- Steering/handling
- Visibility
Cons
- Automatic-transmission performance
- Passenger room
- Engine noise
Vehicle Highlights
Nissan's luxury division relaunched its front-drive, near-luxury compact sedan for 1999, after a three-year hiatus. Slightly larger than before, with sleeker styling, the second-generation G20 promised 2.4 more inches of rear leg room. Under the hood was a slightly revised version of the original 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 140 horsepower. Either a manual gearbox or optional four-speed automatic transmission could be installed. Standard safety features included front side airbags, front seatbelt pretensioners, and antilocking all-disc brakes. Base and sportier Touring (G20t) models were offered. The Touring edition added a rear spoiler, fog lights, limited-slip differential, automatic climate control, and slightly lower-profile tires (of the same 15-inch diameter). The G20t also got grippier seat fabric. An optional Leather and Convenience package included leather upholstery and automatic climate control. The G20 competed against the Acura TL, Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Lexus IS 300, and Volvo S40.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Infiniti G20 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 3 | |
| Total Score: | 43 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1999-2002 Infiniti G20. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1999-2002 Infiniti G20.
Year to Year Changes
2000 Infiniti G20:
Only a few upgrades were evident for the 2000 model year. The four-cylinder engine gained 5 horsepower, and both transmissions got revised gear ratios to help performance. A new remote power trunk release was operable from the dashboard or key fob. New features also included a one-touch up/down driver's window and retained accessory power. A new cell-phone/satellite assistance/communication system was optional for the Touring edition.
2001 Infiniti G20:
Unchanged for 2001, the G20 continued to suffer from low sales. Options included heated front seats and a Leather/Sunroof package. The in-vehicle Communications System was similar to GM's OnStar, with a satellite/cell-phone link but no dashboard display.
2002 Infiniti G20:
Infiniti dropped the sporty Touring sedan for 2002, in favor of a new Sport option package that included leather upholstery, a power sunroof, and 16-inch alloy wheels instead of the usual 15-inchers.
Our road test for the 1999-2002 Infiniti G20 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1999-2002 Infiniti G20 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1999-2002 Infiniti G20 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Performance is a problem with the G20, partly because most entry-level cars in this league have a V6, not a four-cylinder engine. Peppy enough once it's up to speed, the four-cylinder's relative lack of low-speed torque translates to lackluster off-the-line acceleration. Lacking spirit for around-town driving, a G20 with automatic needed 10 seconds to reach 60 mph. The automatic tends to change gears with a jolt and is slow to downshift. In contrast, the slick-shifting five-speed helps progress a bit and adds to the sedan's sporting nature. Fuel economy beats the near-luxury norm. When new, test sedans averaged 22.8 to 26.9 mpg. Handling is agile and front-drive assured. Stable and maneuverable, a G20 is right at home on twisty roads--nearly as nimble as some costlier rear-drive sports sedans. The ride is surprisingly absorbent for a compact. Braking is swift and sure in emergencies and routine driving alike. Vocal when worked hard, the engine never sounds pleasant. Tire roar is noticeable on coarse pavement, though wind noise is low. Compared to most rivals, interior space is limited--a bit crowded with four adults aboard. Front and rear seats are comfortable and offer good support on long trips, but rear leg room is only adequate for larger adults. All-around headroom is tight with the optional sunroof. Gauges and controls are exactly where expected, while the available automatic climate system is welcome and easy to operate. Visibility is excellent. Interior storage space is good. Standard 60/40 split folding rear seatbacks augment a usefully roomy trunk. Exterior fit and finish are excellent, but the cabin has a faint economy-car look and feel even if equipped with leather upholstery.
Value for the Money
More a dressed-up compact than a true near-luxury car, Infiniti's well-equipped four-cylinder sedan is not a great value when compared with a similarly equipped midsize Accord or Camry. Because some G20s were discounted when new, some tempting used-car prices might be found.
More a dressed-up compact than a true near-luxury car, Infiniti's well-equipped four-cylinder sedan is not a great value when compared with a similarly equipped midsize Accord or Camry. Because some G20s were discounted when new, some tempting used-car prices might be found.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Infiniti G20 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 4 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 3 | |
| Total Score: | 43 |
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.
Coolant leak:
The expansion plug on the right-side intake manifold may leak coolant requiring installation of a revised manifold. (1999)
Fuel odors:
A rotten-egg odor from the exhaust may require reprogramming of the engine-control module. (2000)
Poor transmission shift:
The key may be difficult to remove and/or the shifter may be hard to move from park due to a bent spring in the shift-lever mechanism. (1999)
Poor transmission shift:
Unless the transmission cooler is thoroughly cleaned following a transmission repair, the newly serviced unit will likely soon fail. (1999-2002)
Power seats:
The power seat may not move fore and aft because the drive cable breaks. (1999-2001)
Starter:
Starter may grind, particularly when cold, due to loss of lubrication. Replacement starters have high-temperature grease. (1999-2000)
Vehicle noise:
A clunk from the rear of the car when driving over speed bumps or curb cuts (when the back seat and trunk are empty) is fixed by installing revised springs and shock absorbers. (1998-2000)
Windows:
Windows may stick and make a popping noise if not used for more than a day due to problems with the rubber window guides that must be replaced. (1999)
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 | $1,015 |
| Alternator | $1,035 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $910 |
| Brakes | $565 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $0 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,750 |
| Exhaust System | $775 |
| Radiator | $710 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $990 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $400 |
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 |
|
|
|||
| 2002 | |||
| G20 | $6,200-7,200 | $5,400-6,300 | $2,700-3,100 |
| 2001 | |||
| G20 | $5,100-5,900 | $4,300-5,000 | $2,000-2,400 |
| 2000 | |||
| G20 | $4,300-5,000 | $3,600-4,200 | $1,500-1,700 |
| 1999 | |||
| G20 | $3,800-4,500 | $3,100-3,700 | $1,200-1,400 |
|
|
|||
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. | 102.4 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 177.5 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 66.7 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.1 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2923 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 13.5 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.9 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.2 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.5 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 36.8 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.6 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
In all G20 models, a 2.0-liter dual-overhead-cam four-cylinder engine mated with a five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. Output was raised from 140 to 145 horsepower for 2000.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 2.0 / 122 | 140-145 | 132-136 | 5-speed manual: 24/31 4-speed automatic: 23/30 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
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%.
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