As the old saying goes, “The more things change the more they stay the same.” Infiniti’s 2007 G35 sedan has new sheetmetal, a new engine, and a new interior. But even with those changes, it remains steadfast in its mission of being a sporty and luxurious, yet less expensive alternative to top German rivals.

Our extended-use G35 sports a look similar to that of the 2003-2006 generation. Like its predecessor, '07s use a 3.5-liter V6 engine and 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel-drive G35 and all-wheel-drive G35x models also carry forward.

That’s where the foundational similarities end. The V6 is Infiniti-parent Nissan’s new “VQ” engine that produces a healthy 306 hp. VQ could stand for “very quick” as evidenced by the unanimous staff praise for our G35x test car’s eager acceleration. The automatic transmission is generally smooth and responsive, though some testers complain of intermittent downshift delays.

Our test example adeptly balances ride and handling. The G35x traverses bumps with solid control and no unwanted body motions. This car feels well connected to the road thanks to AWD traction, little body lean when cornering, and accurate steering. Its overall sportiness is blunted a bit with brakes that feel too sensitive to our testers and steering feel that can seem too heavy at low speeds. Our average fuel economy of 19.8 mpg is respectable given this car’s performance.

Interior materials, controls, room, and comfort also impress. Most audio and climate functions are separate from our test car’s navigation system, which itself is easy to program. It usefully displays the names and phone numbers of area restaurants and other points of interest. If you have a cell phone linked to the car, it can dial the number of a particular location. We like what we see in our G35x thus far. It’s showing that it can go toe-to-toe with veteran rivals from Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. And comparably equipped, the G35 costs less. That’s a winning formula in Consumer Guide’s book.

Editors' Comments

Tom Appel: The G35 has matured past being measured against the BMW 3-Series. It is a legitimate premium sports sedan with a character all its own. For driving precision, the BMW is still top dog, but for edgy feistiness the Infiniti gets my nod. Without apologies, the G35 is not like the 3-Series, but it’s absolutely worth test driving.

Ed Piotrowski: Infiniti has created a car that can go toe-to-toe with the benchmark BMW 3-Series while undercutting it on price. G35 is very satisfying to drive and should be near the top of any entry-level luxury buyer’s list.

Chuck Giametta: Going by list prices and not including destination charges, you'd pay $42,270 for a comparably equipped BMW 328Xi (230 hp) or $41,790 for an Audi A4 3.2 quattro (255 hp). Our long-term G35X lists for $38,200, has 306 hp, and the dynamic poise, useful features, and enough room and comfort to be a dead-serious alternative to those two top competitors. Only drivers super sensitive to the nuances of suspension design and snobs who put brand prestige ahead of all else would not consider the G35X a bargain for which no excuses are required.

Jennifer Geiger: I've long ago added G35 to my imaginary garage of vehicles. It continues to impress for its even blend of sport and luxury, flawless and classy interior, and competition-besting price.

John Biel: As optioned with--among other things--a navigation system and satellite radio, this AWD sedan still came in delivered for somewhat less than $40,000, so it seems to be a worthy consideration for shoppers in this class. Power, comfort, and handling won't disappoint.

2007 Infiniti G35

2007 Infiniti G37

Body style: 4-door sedan
Model: AWD G35x
Engine: 306-hp 3.5-liter V6
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Total Miles: 16,908
Observed Fuel Economy: 19.8 mpg
Problems During Test: None
Base Price: $33,950
Price as Tested: $38,900
Major Options: Premium Package (Bose-brand audio, sunroof, wireless cell phone link), Navigation Package (navigation system, 9.5-gigabyte hard drive for music files, satellite radio)