2002 Infiniti I35: Road Test
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2002 Infiniti I35 ▼
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- MSRP: $28,750
- Invoice: $26,044
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Our road test for the 2002 Infiniti I35 includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Infiniti I35 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Infiniti I35, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Infiniti I35 help you decide if a 2002 Infiniti I35 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.2 |
Test I35 ran 0-60 mph in 7.5 sec, a bit quicker than automatic-transmission I30. (Test '02 Lexus ES 300 took 8.2 sec.) I35 feels strong in the midrange, but passing power is occasionally stymied by the automatic's reluctance to kick down.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.6 |
Little changed from I30. Test averages of 18.1 mpg included fast city/freeway driving and performance tests. Infiniti recommends premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 7.2 |
Test Sport Package model had mediocre bump absorption, with more tire thump and patter than expected in this class. Standard suspension should give less-agitated ride.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.7 |
Even Sport Package I35 is less-agile than some rivals, but corners with assured stability and modest body lean. Little nosedive in simulated panic stops, but brakes on test car felt over-boosted and touchy in routine use.
QUIETNESS
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.8 |
Class-average at best, with coarse-surface tire thrum the worst offender. Little wind rush at 60 mph and above. Engine muted in gentle cruising, emits a tuneful snarl at full throttle.
CONTROLS
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.3 |
Workable dashboard design, but a few switches hard to find and unlit, including crowded steering-wheel audio buttons. Interior finish and materials nice but not outstanding.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7 |
Standard power seats, manual-tilt wheel enhance comfort for both occupants. Leg room good, but head room just average for tall folk, who may also find the seat cushions too short for best thigh support. Styling slightly inhibits over-the-shoulder visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.4 |
Takes two adults without crowding, but feels too firm--almost hard--and sits high enough to limit head room for tall riders. But entry/exit is no sweat, and there's more usable leg space than in the ES 300 with front seats fully aft.
CARGO ROOM
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.2 |
Usefully shaped trunk not huge, but easy to load. Good in-cabin storage includes a handy "purse" hook on right front seatback.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.1 |
I35 is a capable near-luxury sedan and well-equipped even without options. It's worth considering as a middle ground between the sportier Acura TL and the plusher but more-conservative Lexus ES 300.
Total Score
| Luxury w/Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 61 | 59.5 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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