2004 Infiniti I35: Road Test

Archived Review

2004 Infiniti I35 

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  • MSRP: $30,600
  • Invoice: $27,713

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Our road test for the 2004 Infiniti I35 includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Infiniti I35 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Infiniti I35, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Infiniti I35 help you decide if a 2004 Infiniti I35 is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

Luxury Class Average
6 6.4

Test I35 did 7.5 sec 0-60 mph, just adequate for this class. I35 feels strong in the important 35-55-mph range, but passing power hurt by automatic's reluctant downshifts.

FUEL ECONOMY

Luxury Class Average
5 4.6

We averaged 18.1 mpg, creditable for fast city/freeway driving and gas-eating performance tests. Infiniti recommends premium-grade fuel.

RIDE QUALITY

Luxury Class Average
7 7

Compliant suspension delivers composed ride befitting a near-luxury sedan.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

Luxury Class Average
6 6.8

Less agile than some rivals, but corners with modest body lean. Little nosedive in simulated panic stops, but brakes on test car felt touchy in routine use.

QUIETNESS

Luxury Class Average
6 6.7

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 Class Average
8 6.7

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 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 Class Average
6 5.6

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 adequate leg space with front seats fully aft.

CARGO ROOM

Luxury Class Average
4 4

Usefully shaped trunk not huge, but easy to load. Good in-cabin storage includes a handy "purse" hook on front-passenger seatback.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

Luxury Class Average
7 5.8

I35 is a capable near-luxury sedan and well-equipped even without options. It's a middle ground between the sportier Acura TL and the plusher but more-conservative Lexus ES 330. Red-carpet Infiniti customer handling is a point in its favor.

Total Score

Luxury Class Average
62 60.8

Total Score: 62

Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars

Low Score
48
Average Score
60
High Score
71

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