2002 Infiniti I35: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Revamped styling, more power, and new features highlight 2002 changes to Infiniti's near-luxury sedan. I35 is named for a new 3.5-liter V6, which has 28 hp more than the predecessor I30's 3.0 V6. A sunroof and rear sunshades are optional instead of standard for '02, but the I35 comes with several features that had cost extra, among them traction control, brake assist, 17-inch wheels, and Xenon headlamps. An antiskid system is newly available. Suspension revisions are intended to improve ride and handling. A 4-speed automatic remains the sole transmission. New front styling aims for visual kinship with Infiniti's Q45 flagship. Rear styling and interior details also are retouched. I35 comes as a single Luxury model. Replacing the I30's Touring model is a similar Sport Package with high-performance tires, firmer suspension, and lower-body aero extensions, plus the antiskid system. Infiniti is the upscale division of Nissan, and the I35 is based on the Nissan Maxima, which is also revised for 2002 and includes the 255-hp V6.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has two clear benchmarks; the Acura TL and Lexus ES 300. Both succeed in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. ES 300 offers a little more luxury and TL, with it's Type-S, a bit more sport.

We Recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored BMW 3-Series as a rear-drive alternative. The "3" has enough bodystyles and engine choices to suit anyone. At the other end of the near-luxury spectrum is the posh and comfortable Buick Park Avenue--an old-school luxo-cruiser from Detroit.