2003-2007 Infiniti G35: Road Test

With an automatic transmission, "stoplight racers" may crave more takeoff punch. But G35s are satisfyingly quick otherwise. An automatic-transmission Leather coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, and a test manual-shift coupe felt even swifter. The eager V6 is a good match for the smooth, rapid-shifting automatic, whose manual-gear-change mode gives an extra measure of driver control. The G35 feels even more alert with the short-throw, precision-feel manual transmission. Fuel economy is so-so. A test Leather sedan with Sport Tuned Suspension, Aero package, and automatic transmission, averaged 17.9 mpg. A manual-shift Leather coupe averaged 17 mpg, while the G35x 4WD sedan ranged from 15.8 to 17.3 mpg. Infiniti recommends premium-grade fuel for all G35s. Taut and stable on the road, the G35 is helped by its long wheelbase and solid structure. Unwanted body motions are well-checked, but large bumps occasionally pound through, especially in sport-tuned-suspension sedans and coupes with larger wheels. All G35s are grippy and agile--a close match for the targeted BMW 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Still, European rivals have the edge in high-speed stability and steering feedback. On bumpy surfaces, coupes with 18-and 19-inch wheels can be tossed slightly off course as low-profile tires fail to absorb shocks. Brakes are strong. The engine has a lusty note in rapid acceleration, and a background baritone at cruise. Road noise is evident on coarse surfaces, pronounced with 17-inch tires, and intrusive with 18s or 19s. Wind noise is moderate, though lower in sedans. Sedans and coupes share a generally well-designed cabin. The main gauge cluster moves to match the steering wheel's tilt, though the wheel obscures power-mirror controls. Climate-system readouts display at the dashboard top, remote from climate buttons. Unorthodox power-seat controls mount beside the console, susceptible to spills from nearby cupholders. Fortunately, the navigation system does not incorporate audio or climate functions, and its screen rises from the dashboard top. Assembly quality and most interior materials are on target for the class, but a few rough-edged plastic trim pieces separate it from Audi, BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz rivals. Front space is good in sedans, but firm cushions can annoy on long drives. Coupes have a special driver's seat with softer cushioning, better long-distance comfort, though more prominent side bolsters interfere with arm movement when shifting the manual transmission. With a sunroof, coupes are snug for six-footers and seatbelts require an annoying stretch to reach. The steering wheel does not telescope, as in many rivals. Visibility is good in sedans, but very confined aft in coupes. Sedans have above-average rear head and leg room on a firm, well-contoured bench, but limited width and a driveline hump thwart uncrowded three-abreast travel. The sedan's Premium package includes manually-adjusting backrest recline, a feature that not everyone finds useful. Coupes are sized for two small adults out back, with difficult entry/exit. Their front seats power forward and back, but some twisting is needed to get inside. The coupe's body design limits headroom for taller passengers, but leg space is surprisingly good. The sedan's trunk is large for the class. Lid hinges don't intrude, but the opening won't swallow larger objects. A center ski pass-through is included, but no folding seatbacks. Coupe seatbacks fold, but the opening to the trunk is limited. Interior storage space is good.

Value for the Money
Infiniti isn't as prestigious a brand as BMW, Lexus or Mercedes, and doesn't quite match them (or Audi) for refinement, detail finish, and materials. Still, in performance, style and space--and all-wheel drive after 2003--the G35 earns a Recommend rating. It's a credible and less-expensive alternative to rival models from those automakers.