If you were already in love with Infiniti’s sporty G35 -- if only for the exhaust note that’s enough to make anyone weak in the knees -- then you’re in for a treat with their newest model, the G37. Available in both a base and sport model (G37 S), Infiniti has taken it a step further this time, and we’re willing to travel the distance with them every step of the way.
After a week behind the wheel of this little street bender we were floored by the performance, indifferent about the interior and mesmerized by its flashy new looks. Check out our top 10 Infiniti G37 highlights to find out all the racy details.
It’s rare for a new model to be released in only one layout. Infiniti took the plunge, however, and released the G37 available only as a two-door. Unlike the G35, which was not only available in sport or base, but also as a sedan or a coupe and with an optional AWD, the G37 is only available as a 2+2. While this may appeal to the younger generation and the eternal bachelors of the world, it leaves little to be desired by the family man or the man with more than three friends.
If you’ve had the pleasure of navigating a previous generation G35 before stepping into the new G37 you’ll feel right at home as very little has changed in this year’s model. Equipped with sporty, body-hugging, bolstered seats and an ergonomically designed middle console, the G37 should be every driver's dream. However, their onboard computer left us with a bit of a headache. Navigating the system is made difficult with the plastic dial with push buttons. While nowhere near as aggravating as iDrive, Infiniti needs to take a second look at their onboard system and consider implementing a more user-friendly interface that’s much more straightforward.
Bred from the genes of the G35 it’s quite clear that good breeding really does run in the family. At first glance the G35 coupe and G37s are identical. The length and width remains relatively the same and even the general shape of the car has crossed over into the next generation. However, Infiniti has taken a much softer approach to the vehicle’s look with the G37, smoothing out all the lines and taking a bit of the severity out of the G’s aggressive looks. While the G35 may have been a near carbon-copy of Nissan’s 350Z, the G37 isolates itself from the pack with brand new amoeba-shaped front headlamps, a more rounded front grille and an integrated rear spoiler. Curvaceous and rounded, the new G37 is stunning to behold and the aggression has not been lost on the gentle lines.
There’s something to be said for a company like Infiniti who continually produces vehicles that fly under the radar and yet remain a staple on the roads today. While Infiniti might not be known as the horn-blower of luxury vehicles, it still gets the job done and it gets it done with uber sophistication and class. Unlike BMW with in-your-face performance stats and a stereotype that precedes it, Infiniti has managed to continue to release vehicles that not only perform well on the road, but also on paper. They might not be head-turners or gossip-starters, but Infinitis offer all-around good design from the tailpipes to the headlamps.
As far as coupes go, the G37 is another sheep in the cramped-quarters flock of modern-day coupes. The front seats are the prime spots, as is always the case with coupes. While the back seats are outfitted with a middle armrest and bucket-like seats that are very comfortable, if you have anything resembling legs you’re not going to be comfortable for longer than five minutes on the road. Given the compact structure of the cabin, one would think the space was transferred to the trunk, but that would be wishful thinking. With only 7.4-cubic feet of space in the shallow trunk, it’s hard to believe the placard instructions that two sets of golf clubs can comfortably fit in the trunk. While not the easiest to follow, the golf bag instructions at least prove that the G37 is perfect for the corporate banker.
Just as its model number has gone up a few digits, so too has the G37’s engine size. Equipped with a 3.7-liter V6 engine, it pumps out 330 horses for the driver’s pleasure. Sporting rear-wheel drive, this Japanese road demon can be quite the ride if given the chance. While the base model houses only a five-speed transmission, the gears are stocky and responsive and give the driver precisely what he needs when he needs it. And what’s even better about the Infiniti G37 lineup is that even if you can’t afford to sport that bright red S badge, you won’t lose out on the horsepower.
One feature we always find interesting in any new models are the sport-shift paddles. A newer trend in luxury sport cars on the market today, sport paddles have become all the rage. These paddle shifters can be integrated into the vehicle in a number of ways, but are usually situated behind the steering wheel in similar positions to the windshield wiper blades and lights. However, where models differ is in the size, shape and placement. We’ve driven enough paddle shifters to realize that the best models are those that attach the shifters to the steering wheel itself, not the steering column. With the shifters attached to the steering wheel you’re able to keep your hands firmly planted on the wheel during more spirited driving, instead of having to frantically search for them. Unfortunately, the G37 sports the latter type, and they are easy to manipulate and well-situated -- when the wheel is straight.
As mentioned already, the G37 offers a sporty ride that’s actually quite comfortable. While the G37 allows you to let loose on the open road, it’s still a viable option as an everyday driver. However, for all its comfort and practicality (with mileage in the 17 mpg city; 24 mpg highway range) the fact that the back seat is nearly unusable and the trunk just isn’t enough, this car is best suited as a secondary vehicle. Its rear-wheel-drive only also makes it a poor choice for those living in the northern regions where snowy and icy conditions mean more than just spirited driving in the colder months.
As a direct contender for the BMW 3 Series we're inclined to think that BMW has a real battle on its hands. Now, don’t get us wrong; we know that BMW has a bit more finesse than Infiniti, despite Infiniti’s class and sophistication there’s just something about BMWs that always pushes them to the top. However, if you’re in the market for a sportier ride but don’t want to dish out the initial cost and maintenance fees thereafter, the G37 is a viable choice and one that should not be overlooked. True, it’s no Bavarian prince, but the Infiniti G37 has royal features and a domineering performance that’s sure to have you bowing in its presence.
