Enter the G37

Though the coupe's exterior styling may look like it takes many of its cues from
the sedan, the only parts shared between the two are the exterior door handles.

The company continues to revamp its products, and the new G37 coupe comes on the heels of Infiniti's 2007 redesign of the G35 sedan. Though the coupe's exterior styling may look like it takes many of its cues from the sedan, the only parts shared between the two are the exterior door handles.

Further distinguishing the G37 coupe from its sedan sibling is its engine. While the basic design of the engine is largely similar, Infiniti increased displacement of the standard V6 to 3.7 liters from 3.5. Horsepower increases accordingly, to 330 for the G37 versus 306 for the '07 G35 sedan. 2007 coupes had 298 with manual transmission and 280 with automatic.

Speaking of transmission choices for the 2008 Infiniti G37, the model you choose dictates the transmission you'll get. The G37 comes in three trim levels. Base G37s and uplevel Journeys have a 5-speed automatic. The top-end Sport 6MT uses a 6-speed manual. Sport 6MTs also have specific suspension tuning and 19-inch tires and wheels (versus 18s on other models). These features are part of a Sport Package that's optional on Journeys.

The G37 comes in three trim levels: base, uplevel Journey, top-end Sport 6MT.

All 2008 Infiniti G37 cars with the automatic transmission have a manual shift gate. Sliding the gearshift over puts the transmission in "sport" mode that allows the engine to rev higher before shifting, which is helpful during spirited driving. Sliding the shifter up or down allows the driver to manually change gears. With the Journey's Sport Package, magnesium shift paddles are added to the steering column, making manual gear changes easier. The paddles allow for manual shifting even if the floor shifter is not moved from the standard "drive" position.

Available on Sport Package Journeys and the Sport 6MT is Infiniti's 4-Wheel Active Steer (4WAS). This system uses sensors to adjust the steering system and rear suspension according to steering input and vehicle speed. If needed, the rear wheels will turn slightly. All this works to improve handling response.

Aluminum dashboard trim is standard. The metal finish is designed
to resemble handmade Japanese "Washi" paper.

Standard safety features include ABS, traction control, and Infiniti's Vehicle Dynamic Control antiskid system. G37 Journeys with the Sport Package and Sport 6MT versions have unique brakes with larger front and rear rotors. Inside, front side airbags and curtain side airbags are standard.

The 2008 Infiniti G37's interior largely mimics that of its sedan counterpart. The instrumentation is the same. A tilt/telescope steering column is standard. The G37 and G35 are unique in that when the steering column is tilted, the instrument panel housing moves as well.

Aluminum dashboard trim is standard. The metal finish is designed to resemble handmade Japanese "Washi" paper. Optional on base and Journey G37s is genuine African rosewood trim in place of the aluminum.

An eight-way power driver seat is standard on all G37 coupes. Passengers get a four-way power seat on base versions, eight-way on the Journey and Sport 6MT. Both front seats have a lever that moves the backrest forward as well as a button that causes the rest of the seat to power forward, easing access to the rear seating area. Pushing the button again returns the front seat to its original position. Like the G35 sedan, the 2008 G37 incorporates Infiniti's "Intelligent Key" push button ignition with keyless access.

Optional on base and Journey G37s is genuine African rosewood trim
in place of the aluminum.

The 2008 Infiniti G37 coupe offers several option packages. Available on all is the Premium Package, which includes a sunroof, 11-speaker Bose-brand audio, memory system, heated front seats, and Bluetooth wireless cell phone link among other features. Also available on all models is the Navigation Package, which features a navigation system with XM Satellite Radio's NavTraffic capability; a 9.3-gigabyte hard drive that can store digital music files; and Infiniti's Intelligent Cruise Control adaptive cruise control system. The Sport Package is available on the G37 Journey.

Among standalone options are: 4-Wheel Active Steer; the 19-inch tires and wheels found on the Sport 6MT and Sport Package; sunroof, rear spoiler, and rosewood interior trim.

Pricing starts at $34,250 for the base model, $35,000 for the Journey, and $35,550 for the Sport 6MT. Destination and handling is $715. Infiniti officials expect the most popular model to be the Journey with Premium Package, which will list for $38,915.

The 2008 Infiniti G37 coupe is scheduled to arrive at dealers August 21.