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Premium midsize car; Built in Japan
  • 2-door convertible
  • 2-door coupe
  • 4-door sedan
  • longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $8,800 – $40,900*


2008 Infiniti G37 coupe


2008 Infiniti G37 coupe


2008 Infiniti G35 sedan


2008 Infiniti G35 sedan


2008 Infiniti G35 sedan interior

Pros:
  • Acceleration
  • Climate controls
  • Interior materials
  • Seat comfort (front)
  • Steering/handling
Cons:
  • Cargo room (G37)
  • Fuel economy
  • Rear-seat comfort (G37)
  • Ride (G37)
  • Visibility (G37)

These Infinitis lack the brand prestige of rivals from Audi, BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz. They don’t quite match them for quietness or refinement, either. But their performance, space, and available all-wheel drive makes them excellent alternatives. These virtues, teamed with new-car prices that undercut those rivals, earn the G35/G37 Recommended status (2008) and Best Buy (2009-12).

Overview

Infiniti reworked its lowest-priced sedan for 2007, giving it more power and new styling, inside and out. The coupe version of the midsize G35 continued in its 2003-2006 form for 2007. Both the G35 sedan and the coupe had rear-wheel drive, but the sedan also was available as the all-wheel-drive G35x. In 2014, Infiniti revamped its model names. All Infiniti cars carried a Q prefix. The G37 sedan (formerly G35) became Q50. (Q50 was a new design for 2014 and is not included in this report). The G37 coupe and convertible were renamed Q60, but were not significantly changed.

All models used a 3.5-liter V6 and a five-speed automatic transmission, or a six-speed manual gearbox. Sedans had a 306-horsepower V6, up from a top of 298 in the 2006 season. Coupe engines had 298 horsepower with manual shift, 280 with automatic. The G35x came only with an automatic transmission. Its all-wheel-drive system included a Snow Mode that locked in a 50/50 front/rear power split.

Sedans came in base, Journey, G35x, and Sport models. Coupes came in a single trim level. All had antilock braking, traction/antiskid control, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags; the coupe’s curtain bags covered front seats only. Standard features included leather upholstery and bi-xenon headlights. A limited-slip differential and sport suspension were included with Sport sedans and manual-transmission coupes; those items were optional for automatic-transmission coupes.

Sport sedans and coupes with sport suspension offered versions of Infiniti’s “active steer” system, designed to improve handling. The sedan’s Navigation Package had a navigation system, voice recognition, and a 9.5 gigabyte hard drive for storing music files. Navigation was a stand-alone coupe option. Keyless entry/starting was standard on all but manual-transmission coupes. Rivals to the G35 included the Acura TL, BMW 3-Series, and Cadillac CTS.

Yearly Updates

2008 G
Nissan’s luxury division launched a new G37 coupe with a 3.7-liter engine while the G35 sedan continued with little change. Coupes came only with rear-wheel drive and either a manual or automatic transmission. The coupe’s 3.7-liter V6 generated 330 horsepower. Sedans retained the 306-hp 3.5-liter V6. Coupes were offered in base, Journey, and Sport 6MT trim. The latter included a sport suspension and specific wheels with high-performance tires. New G37 coupe options included “Four Wheel Active Steer,” which moved the rear wheels slightly when turning.
2009 G
G37 became the name for all versions of Infiniti’s best-selling vehicle. The G37 name supplanted G35 on sedan versions of this premium midsize car. Two-door coupe and 4-door sedan versions were joined later in the model year by a 2-door convertible with a power-retractable hard top. All had a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produced 330 hp in the coupe, 328 in the sedan, and 325 in the convertible. This represented an increase of 22 hp over the 2008 G35 sedan. Also new for all G37 models was a 7-speed automatic transmission, which replaces a 5-speed automatic. All body styles also offered a 6-speed manual. Coupes and sedans were offered with all-wheel drive, which was a new feature for coupes.
2010 G
The 2010 Infiniti G37 received slightly freshened exterior and interior styling. Newly offered on the 2010 G37 was a USB port and a 2-gigabyte hard drive for storing music files on models not equipped with the navigation system.
2011 G
Sedans added a lower-cost G25 model, coupes added a high-performance IPL trim level, and convertibles added a top-line Limited Edition.
2012 G
There were no changes of note to any version of the 2012 Infiniti G.
2013 G
With its successor due for 2014, the G37 Sedan was predictably little changed for 2013. The only news, in fact, was a slimmed-down model menu with reapportioned standard and optional features. Gone were the price-leader 2.5-liter G25 versions and the G37’s base, Sport Appearance Edition, and Limited trim levels. The G37 Coupe also dropped the base-trim model for 2013, but was otherwise a rerun for a second straight season. The main change for 2013 G37 convertible was the addition of a IPL performance model.
2014 Q60
In 2014, Infiniti revamped its model names. All Infiniti cars carried a Q prefix. The G37 sedan became Q50 and was a new design for 2014 (see separate report). The G37 coupe and convertible were renamed Q60, but were not significantly changed.

Engines

longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive

For the 2007 model year, G35 sedans used a 3.5-liter V6 engine rated at 306 horsepower, with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed automatic transmission. Coupe engines developed 298 hp with manual shift, 280 with automatic. For 2008, the revamped G37 coupe got a 330-hp, 3.7-liter V6. In 2010, all versions, including the new-for-2009 convertible body style, had a 3.7-liter V6 engine that produced 330 hp in the coupe, 328 in the sedan, and 325 in the convertible. Also new for all 2009 G37 models was a 7-speed automatic transmission, which replaced a 5-speed automatic. Coupes and sedans were offered with all-wheel drive, which was a new-for-2009 feature for coupes. For 2011, the sedan lineup added a lower-cost G25 version with a 218-hp 2.5-liter V6 and 7-speed automatic, while a high-performance IPL coupe was added with a 348-hp 3.7 V6.

dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 2.5/153
Engine HP 218
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 187
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
7-speed automatic

 20/29
dohc V61
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.5/214
Engine HP 280-298
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 260-270
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual
5-speed automatic 		19/26
18/25
dohc V61
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.5/214
Engine HP 306
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 268
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual
5-speed automatic 		17/25
17/24 		17.1
19.2
dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.7/225
Engine HP 330
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 270
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual
5-speed automatic
7-speed automatic		 17/26
18/24
18/26		 20.1
dohc V64
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.7/225
Engine HP 348
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 276
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual
7-speed automatic 		17/25
19/27

1. EPA Note: Most figures shown for the 3.5-liter versions are for 2008 models. The Environmental Protection Agency changed its procedure for 2008 to yield more realistic estimates. Therefore, estimated mileage is lower than for prior years.

Road Test

We have not yet tested the G25 sedan added for 2011. Acceleration is otherwise a highlight, as the eager V6s satisfy at any speed. Passing maneuvers are a breeze. Infiniti’s automatic transmission is generally smooth, but intermittent downshifting delay in some G35s annoys in around-town driving. Manual-transmission models are a bit quicker, helped by precise shift action. However, heavy clutch effort hampers smooth city driving. Though more powerful, the G37 coupe doesn’t feel much faster than a G35 in everyday driving, regardless of transmission. Tests G35s have suffered from overly sensitive throttle action. One test G37 has imprecise clutch behavior.

Fuel economy is so-so. A test Sport sedan with automatic averaged 18.6 mpg, while manual shift dropped the average to 17.1 mpg in mixed city/highway driving. A test AWD sedan averaged 18.9 mpg in mostly highway driving. An extended-use AWD sedan averaged 19.8 mpg. A manual-shift G37 coupe managed 20.1 mpg. Infiniti recommends premium-grade gasoline for all models.

All G-cars are taut and stable on the road, helped by relatively long wheelbases and solid structures. No bounding or floatiness is noticeable, but large bumps occasionally pound through the cabin-especially on G37s with the sport suspension and 19-inch tires. Some jiggle on broken surfaces occurs, too-again, more evident with the coupe’s sport suspension.

In steering/handling, each model ranks as a near match for the targeted BMW 3-Series, though the BMW has an edge in high-speed stability and steering feedback. All Gs are grippy and agile, with little body lean in corners. The Sport sedan’s available Four Wheel Active Steer System provides even sharper moves, though steering boost at low speeds is inconsistent. Braking is strong, though some testers have found the pedal too sensitive in some G35 sedans.

The G’s engine note is lusty in rapid acceleration, dipping to a background baritone at cruise. Coupes emit a particularly sporty tone that may not please all drivers. Road noise is evident on coarse surfaces, especially with available 18- and 19-inch tires. Wind noise is minimal in both body styles.

Coupe or sedan, the cabin is generally well-designed, though the control layout has some small buttons and takes some acclimation. In 2008, coupes and sedans shared the same overall interior design. Sedans and G37 coupes have a 7-inch dashboard screen, with or without navigation, and many functions work through controls mounted horizontally below the screen. The 2007 coupe’s navigation screen pops up from the dashtop. Infiniti’s navigation system is refreshingly easy to use, and many audio/climate controls are separate from it. The main gauge cluster moves in accord with the tilt steering wheel, but the wheel rim may block full view of instruments for some drivers. Cabin assembly quality and most interior materials are on-target for this class. Sedans and G37 coupes, with rich wood or aluminum trim, are a step up from 2007 coupes, which have more evident plastic. One test AWD sedan suffered an intermittent buzz from the dashtop.

Both body styles offer good front-seat space, though taller drivers may desire more legroom and headroom-especially with the available sunroof. Seats in Sport models have additional side bolstering to keep occupants planted during fast cornering. Coupes have a special driver’s seat with a softer cushion, though its more prominent side bolsters can interfere with arm movement when shifting the manual transmission. A sunroof-equipped coupe is snug for six-footers, and seatbelts require an annoying stretch to reach. Visibility is good in sedans, but somewhat confined to rear corners in coupes.

Sedans have above-average rear headroom and legroom. Though well-contoured, the bench is a bit short, according to some testers. Limited width, minimal foot space, and a driveline hump thwart uncrowded three-abreast travel. Coupe front seats power forward and back to ease entry/exit, but some twisting still is required. Headroom is limited in coupes. So is leg space, even with front seats pushed well forward.

The sedan’s trunk is large for this class. Lid hinges don’t intrude, but the narrow opening won’t swallow larger objects. A center pass-through has been standard, but not folding seatbacks. Coupe seatbacks fold, but cargo space is small and very shallow. Interior small-item storage space is just fair.

Ratings

Model Tested: 2008 G35x AWD sedan

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 7
70%
Fuel Economy - 4
40%
Ride Quality - 6
60%
Steering/Handling - 8
80%
Quietness - 6
60%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 7
70%
Room/Comfort Front - 8
80%
Room/Comfort Rear - 6
60%
Cargo Room - 4
40%

Other

Value - 10
100%

Total: 66

Specifications

2-door convertible
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
112.2 183.3 72.9 55.1
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
10.3 20.0 4
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
39.4 34.5 43.9 27.2
2-door coupe
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
112.2 182.2 71.5 54.8
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
7.8 20.0 4
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
39.2 34.7 43.8 31.4
4-door sedan
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
112.2 187.0 69.8 57.8
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
13.5 20.0 5
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
40.5 37.7 43.9 34.7
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: 2008 G35 sedan 4-door sedan

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Front Passenger Injury - 4
80%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Rear Passenger Injury - 5
100%

HLDI

(A score of 100 is average. Lower is better)

Collision N/A
Injury N/A
Theft N/A

Trouble Spots

Automatic transmission
Description: The shifter boot comes away from the trim ring on vehicles with automatic transmissions. (2007-10)
Cruise control
Description: The intelligent cruise control may not maintain proper speed when descending hills requiring reprogramming the engine control module. (2007)
Cruise control
Description: Warning lights for brakes, slip indicator and VDC off on vehicles with intelligent cruise control, are cured by adjusting the brake switch. (2007)
Doors
Description: Intelligent key may not lock or unlock doors. (2007-13)
Sunroof/moonroof
Description: The sunroof leaks due to failure of the rubber seal, which must be replaced. (2005-08)
Tire wear
Description: The low tire pressure warning light may illuminate and the tire may be low due to a defective sensor seal. (2004-06)
None
Description: The brake warning, slip indicator and/or traction control lights may illuminate if the brake light switch goes out of adjustment on sedans with intelligent cruise control. (2007)
None
Description: A tapping noise behind the dashboard may be caused by debris in the heater core that must be flushed out. (2007)
None
Description: Clicking noises from the rear caused by rust between the CV joint(s) and hub(s). 2007-09
Transmission problems
Description: There may be a harsh downshift from 4 to 3 coasting from 30 mph to 20 mph unless the transmission control module software is updated. (2009)
Brake lights
Description: The parking brake light may stay on with the brake releases due to a broken switch requiring replacement of the parking brake assembly. (2007-09)

Recall History

2007
Description:
2007-08 G37
Description: Certain headlamps do not meet federal safety standards.
2007-08 G35, G37 coupe
Description: Sensor in passenger seat cushion may fail, preventing the air bag from deploying in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
2011-12 G37
Description: Incorrectly programmed power window switch has faulty auto-reverse activation and may cause pinch injuries if a body part becomes trapped in the closing window.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

More about Tom Appel
Written by: Tom Appel on April 21, 2016.
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