2003 Infiniti I35: Road Test
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2003 Infiniti I35 ▼
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- MSRP: $29,100
- Invoice: $26,360
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Our road test for the 2003 Infiniti I35 includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Infiniti I35 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Infiniti I35, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Infiniti I35 help you decide if a 2003 Infiniti I35 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Luxury w/ Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.5 |
Test I35 did 0-60 mph in 7.5 sec vs. 8.2 for test Lexus ES 300, a close rival. I35 feels strong in the important 35-55-mph range, but passing power is occasionally stymied by automatic's reluctant downshifts.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Luxury w/ Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.5 |
We averaged 18.1 mpg, creditable for fast city/freeway driving and gas-eating performance tests. Infiniti recommends premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Luxury w/ Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 7.1 |
Test Sport Package-equipped model had mediocre bump absorption, with more tire thump and patter than expected in this class. We prefer the less-agitated ride of the standard suspension.
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 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 above 60 mph, though. Engine muted in gentle cruising, emits a tuneful snarl at full throttle.
CONTROLS
| Luxury w/ Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 6.6 |
Dashboard design slightly dated, but works pretty well, though a few switches are hard to find and unlit, including crowded steering-wheel audio buttons. Navigation system controls can be difficult to decipher. Interior finish and materials nice but not outstanding.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Luxury w/ Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.2 |
Standard power seats enhance comfort for both occupants; manual-tilt wheel helps tailor good basic driving stance. Good leg room, 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 | 5.5 |
Takes two adults without crowding, but seat feels too firm--almost hard--and is high enough to limit head room for tall riders. But entry/exit is no sweat, and there's more usable leg space with front seats fully aft than in the ES 300.
CARGO ROOM
| Luxury w/ Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.9 |
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 | 5.7 |
I35 is a capable near-luxury sedan and well-equipped even without options. It's worth considering for front-wheel-drive fans seeking a middle ground between the sportier Acura TL and the plusher but more-conservative Lexus ES 300. Red-carpet Infiniti customer handling is a point in its favor.
Total Score
| Luxury w/ Sport Pkg. | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 61 | 60.5 |
Total Score: 61
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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