Cons :
- Still behind the class-leading BMW in handling.
- Power steering gets confused in twisties.
- Cramped rear seats.
- Very stiff tuning on sportiest models.
- Looks like the old model from far away.
Interior :
Press Coverage :
The all-new 2008 Infiniti G37 Coupe, combines the exhilarating performance, stunning styling and modern, sporty interior of the original Infiniti G Coupe, accelerating each to new levels.
Leading the enhancements to the new, second-generation G Coupe is the first-ever application of the new 3.7-liter V6 engine with VVEL (for Variable Valve Event and Lift). Rated at 330 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, the VQ37VHR contains approximately 35 percent unique parts content from the new VQ35HR engine introduced in the 2007 G35 Sedan last year.
Along with utilizing a larger displacement than the previous 3.5-liter powerplant, the VVEL system combines hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side, helping to improve not only performance and response but also emissions and fuel efficiency. Overall vehicle fuel economy improvements are estimated to be nearly one mpg better than the G35 Sedan and nearly two mpg better than the previous generation G35 Coupe.
The engine is backed by a choice of an upgraded electronically controlled 5-speed automatic transmission with available paddle shifters or a significantly revised and more refined 6-speed manual transmission.
The G37 Coupe’s enhanced platform and chassis also includes an available advanced 4-Wheel Active Steer system (4WAS), which helps improve vehicle handling performance by adjusting both the front steering gear ratios and the rear suspension geometry according to steering input and vehicle speed. Braking and handling is targeted to be among the best in the luxury sport coupe class.
All of these advanced performance systems are wrapped in an all-new seductive skin. The G37 Coupe exterior design features flowing front fender curves, a wave-style hood, smooth front fascia with Infiniti’s signature double-arch grille and L-shaped headlights. The side character line and side sills, as well as large wheel and tire packages transmit an added sense of power and vibrancy.
Inside, Infiniti-levels of craftsmanship are apparent throughout the all-new interior design, including the use of unique materials and finishes with traditional Japanese design cues. The new G Coupe also includes an extensive list of available technological features – a touch screen navigation system with XM® NavTraffic™ real-time traffic function (requires XM® subscription, sold separately), RearView Monitor and an available 11-speaker Infiniti “Studio on Wheels”™ by Bose® audio system with 24-bit Burr Brown DAC, 3-way door speaker arrays with 10-inch woofers and a 9.3-gigabyte Music Box hard drive.
Infiniti USA
A far more important improvement in the G37, power increases aside, is the fact that it no longer sounds like it's making grits inside the engine. The VQ is smooth again, and the exhaust note is a pleasing burble that's always available with a quick mash of the electronically controlled throttle.
The six-speed manual transmission has been revised as well. The difference between G35 sedan and G37 coupe is more subtle than the engine change, but the coupe's new gearbox feels slightly smoother. The shift throws are short, and so is clutch-pedal travel, which engages with a smoothness that BMW is only beginning to approach with the latest 3-series.
The G37 suspension is the same control-arm-front and multilink-rear configuration as the G35 sedan's. Our test car came with the Sport package, which is standard with the six-speed manual and optional with the automatic transmission. It adds a red "S" to the rear badging and includes a stiffer suspension, limited-slip differential, and 19-inch wheels with high-performance Bridgestone rubber. The setup is good for 0.89 g on the skidpad, and the G37 is impressive on the road.
When it comes to optional sport packages, we're suckers for the promise of better grip and handling, but the resulting harsh ride usually leaves us cussing the low-profile tires and stiff springs. Not so with this G37. The chassis soaks up road bumps without the slightest chatter, and the steering remains precise and communicative. The ride is stiffer than that of a BMW 3-series, but the G37 is a huge improvement over the old coupe with the sport suspension, which was jarring on any surface rougher than freshly waxed linoleum. Dive into a turn, and the G37 transfers its weight gradually and without any surprises. Oversteer can be achieved on corner exit, but the neutral balance of the car means that any opposite-lock maneuvers are more of a four-wheel drift than throttle-induced tail wagging. The only thing we would ask for is a stiffer brake pedal, even though the 70-to-0 stopping distance is a respectable 164 feet. Still, the G37 is a most-satisfying driving experience. It has the trait of any good sports car: Driving the G37 hard is so enjoyable that you forgive its faults.
Car And Driver
Credit goes to the well-tuned sport suspension and tires. Though this combination is capable of very high performance, the freeway ride is damped very well and we didn't experience any tooth-chipping harshness over a variety of poorly maintained pavement surfaces. Relatively low levels of wind and road noise also added to the car's long-distance friendliness.
Good straight-ahead sense also kept the G37 from being influenced either by crosswinds or highly crowned roads. But even in these circumstances, we still noticed the detached feel of the steering. Infiniti has another step yet to go to match the BMW 3 Series in this department.
The Infiniti's pleasing interior also adds to its character. The G37 coupe benefits from all the comfort and ergonomic upgrades lavished on the 2007 G35 sedans. Even the tallest drivers will enjoy an excellent driving position and the generous range of the telescoping steering column. After 2,300 miles, this intrepid traveler felt no need to rush to the chiropractor. About the only gripe we have concerns the bottom seat cushion, as its supportive bolsters make it a little narrow.
Edmunds.com
History:
2003-2006 Infiniti G37 Coupe
3,498 cc / 260 hp / 260 lb-ft / 3336-3512 lbs / 0-60 mph 5.9-6.2 sec.
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