Overview & Reviews

These days, we've come to expect a lot from Infiniti. But in years past, the Japanese luxury brand actually struggled to find an audience. Only with the Infiniti G35 sport sedan did the company start to regain its footing after years in the red. At the time of its debut, the G35's refined styling and sporty performance made a loud statement.

There were two generations of the Infiniti G35, both built on the same platform as the Nissan 350Z sports car. The G35 distinguished itself in the entry-level luxury segment with a roomy cabin, plenty of performance and a respectable price. For those reasons, the rear-wheel-drive G35 was one of our editors' top recommendations for a sport sedan or coupe that was rewarding to own and drive. More recently, the G35 was replaced by the G37.

Most Recent Infiniti G35

There were two generations of the Infiniti G35 sedan, although the second generation is essentially the current G37 sedan with a smaller V6 engine. The G35 coupe lasted only one generation (meaning, same body style) before being replaced by the fully redesigned G37 coupe.

The most recent G35 sedan was completely redesigned for 2007. Changes included a stiffer body structure, revised chassis tuning for better handling, a more powerful V6 engine and a more voluptuous take on the previous G's styling. It was more or less the same size as the outgoing model, but the biggest improvement could be found inside, both ergonomically and aesthetically. Everything was better put together and materials were higher in quality. The 3.5-liter V6 engine produced 306 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters was standard, but a six-speed manual came with the 6MT trim. We'd seriously recommend against this transmission (especially on 2007 models) as it was incredibly difficult to drive smoothly.

The sedan was available in five trims: a base model, Journey, x (indicated all-wheel drive), Sport and Sport 6MT. Most Infiniti G35 sedans will be of the Journey variety, which added items like dual-zone automatic climate control and a six-CD changer. The Sport trims were geared toward enthusiasts and featured 18-inch wheels and tires, a limited-slip differential, sport seats and aggressive tuning for the car's electronic stability system. A four-wheel active steering system was an option that's exclusive to the Sport trims, although we weren't fans of it.

Other than its engine, its name and few other detail changes, the G35 sedan became the G37 sedan for 2009.

Used Infiniti G35 Models

The original Infiniti G35 was introduced for 2003, and was produced in sedan form until 2006 and as a coupe until 2007. Originally, the sedan was available in one trim level until the all-wheel-drive model arrived for '04. The coupe could be had in base or Sport trim. The latter included a firmer suspension, a limited-slip differential and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Both sedan and coupe shared the same 3.5-liter V6, but the sedan originally made less power (260 hp with four doors, 280 with two doors). They were made even at 280 hp for 2005, and both models when equipped with the six-speed manual option got a boost to 298 hp. These horsepower numbers dropped to 293 and 275, respectively, for the '07 coupe because of a change in SAE testing procedures -- actual output did not, in fact, change.

Other than the myriad engine changes, there were other noteworthy updates made during the first-generation G35's lifetime. The sedan received a new hood, grille, bumpers, side sills and taillights for '05, although it was hardly a revolutionary aesthetic difference. The coupe remained mostly unchanged visually. Inside, though, both benefited from a redesigned instrument panel and improved manual transmission with a lower shifting effort. The coupe gained an optional rear-steer system for 2006, while its Sport Package gained a unique front fascia and a big rear spoiler. Bluetooth arrived on all Gs that year. While the G35 sedan was completely redesigned for '07, the coupe remained the same.

In our reviews, we were quite fond of the original generation Infiniti G35. The sedan was a bargain-priced alternative to the BMW 3 Series, while being a little less frantic and more comfortable than the second-generation G35 and current G37. The coupe was the more practical, livable alternative to Nissan's 350Z -- it was a sports car in luxury clothing. If there was one area of concern, it was an interior filled with several cheap surfaces and some unintuitive controls. Headroom was also quite limited in the coupe. One feature that was welcome, though, was the optional reclining rear seatbacks in the G35 sedan, which made it a top choice for backseat comfort.

User Reviews:

• 

  Beautiful, reliable, sports GT... - 2005 Infiniti G35
  By Joseph - November 14 - 10:50 am

  I purchased this car in July of 2010 and have not regretted it for a single moment. I chose a diamond graphite coupe, 6MT revup, with black leather interior. I wanted a sports coupe that provided a sense of luxury and performance without breaking the bank. When I purchased this car I was considering one of my long time favorites; the BMW E46 M3, along with the G37 coupe, and BMW 335i coupe. Though I knew both BMWs were better performers, I decided against them after extensive research that showed I would likely experience expensive regular maintenance and frequent, costly repairs. The G37 was also faster and had an upgraded, nicer interior, but the exterior left something to be desired for my taste. This car is extremely reliable, low cost maintenance, and loads of fun. I literally look forward to driving it every day. The G35 coupe is truly a beautiful car with a timeless design and I get compliments on it all the time from tuners, luxury car owners, to casual, young and old. I would argue it is one of Infinitis best exterior designs. Concerning maintenance costs, this car has been great. I purchased it with 50k on the odometer and with it being a daily driver, it now has 166k on the odometer. My most expensive repairs have been replacing the clutch / flywheel at 150k and the power steering pump shortly after; both for under 2k... thats it! I had to replace the steering wheel clock spring and did it myself for around $50 dollars. (Used part) PROS... APPEARANCE - now this is of course completely based on ones preference, but I think this car is beautiful... and based on the feedback I get on almost a daily basis, the G35 is an aesthetically pleasing design, even by todays standards. It still holds its own next to the newest designs. It was truly innovative and groundbreaking at its debue and it still shows today with the timeless, classic lines, defining its motif. PERFORMANCE - fun, fun, fun... Strong, responsive engine. With 298hp it is not the fastest out there but still a competitive performer. This particular engine is shared with the 35th anniversary 350Z 300hp engine. The only difference in the intake assembly making a difference of about 2hp. With the 350Z Z tube you get to the even 300hp mark. SOUND - the exhuast note is glorious (almost exotic) and coveted by many car enthusiasts. One of the best 6 cylinder exhaust notes around, especially in this price range. Most are either too raspy, high pitched or simply unheard. I get thumbs up all the time for the Gs unique, tonal qualities. Pure bliss... RELIABILITY - The engine still runs like new and doesnt miss a beat. It does burn a little oil... about 1 quart every 3-5k between oil change intervals. PRACTICALITY - Great, especially considering it is a coupe. I have a 16 month old and a 3 month old and I can get them both in the back seat. (One forward facing and one rear facing child seat) with plenty of room for myslef at 6ft. Trunk space is actually decent and the rear seats let down for larger items. Headroom is good up front, but the back not so much for taller passengers. CONS... RIDE COMFORT - dont expect a Cadillac /Benz plush ride. With the low stanced Nismo-tuned sport suspension, this car has a firm ride no doubt. I dont mind it much, but my wife and other passengers have stated it is less than desireable. It is smooth on the open highway, but does not absorb bumps and potholes well as you would expect from a luxury car. It is slightly softer than the 350Z. NOISY Manual Transmission - On forums, the G35 and 350Z 6spd transmissions are often referred to as the rock crusher. The clutch is noisy and chattery. You really notice it when sitting at drive thrus. Mine is even more noisy since I replaced the flywheel with a single mass, opposed to the oem dual mass. QUALITY / Materials - Interior materials are not the best but have held up well. An average mix of leather, plastics, and real aluminum trim that were fair and comparable for the mid 2000s. AUDIO / Electronics... The stereo sounds good but the interface is old and dated. I have since replaced it with a modern double-din touch screen that resolves this and many other technology related desires. TIRE WEAR - in its stock configuration, this cars camber setup eats up tires (inner wear) and does not have the adjustability needed to align for long wear. However, I purchased SPCs front and rear camber kit and can get a flat alignment that wears even for 40k. Anyway, I could get a lot more granular with this review but all things considered, I absolutely love this car. The pros outweigh the bad by multitudes. It has been a great car and I plan on keeping it for years to come. I am a detail enthusiast and take immaculate care of all vehicles I own, so I expect it to continue running and looking great. I would definitely recommend it to someone who is looking for a classy, reliable, grand tourer...

• 

  Still does it for me......... - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By Mike Gee - November 13 - 1:30 am

  okay, its been 3 yrs now and still, with a decent wash, "she" (my 4 dr G35) appeals to me. there are newer models and even slicker looking BMWs and Lexus models (sad- they stepped up their "GAME" due to the G35 !!!), but my girl holds her own.the ride has always been a little "rough" considering the poor condition of L.As streets, but on the highway, and smoother roads, Infiniti proves its worth. i made the mistake of buying without a GPS, but when Im lost , I still enjoy the drive. brakes are still an issue but survivable, and the local dealers always take of you like you wer a new customer. the engine (now complemented with borla exhaust and cold air intake) pushs about 15 more horse out 275 bhp

• 

  Great Car Except Brake Longevity - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By vitdoc - November 11 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for over 1 year. At 15000 miles I need new front rotors and front and rear pads. According to the dealer this is not at all uncommon with the G35. Infiniti does not consider this premature wear a covered item so my 15000 mile bill went from an estimated $200 to nearly $900. Other than this issue the car is very nice. But not such a great deal with this premature break wear.

• 

  Sexiest Coupe on the Road - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By Stinger - November 7 - 10:00 am

  This car is unbelievably sexy and handles and performs like a true sports car. I really feel like Im driving a high quality, high performance car. I look forward to putting more miles on it. I just cant stop driving it!

• 

  I love to it - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By counselor83 - November 7 - 10:00 am

  Ive had the G35 for a month and its all true. Power,acceleration, handling its all there. I had to play hard ball but got the all 9 yards including Aero Package and beat edmunds price buy 1500.

• 

  G35 - 2007 Infiniti G35
  By ANN WOOD - November 7 - 7:13 am

  Great car! All wheel drive is amazing up north, interior is very luxurious, much nicer than my old BMW.

• 

  Great Car - 2004 Infiniti G35
  By Lorrikg - November 5 - 2:23 am

  I test drove a lot of cars and this is the best car for your dollar. It is fun to drive and the best mix of sport and luxury.

• 

  Classy fun to drive car - 2006 Infiniti G35
  By usmcgunner - November 3 - 10:36 am

  This car has performed just as I had expected, great. Ive driven it 500 miles and so far so good, no complaints here. I most enjoy the power of the engine. The seats are very comfortable and good design. It has just the right amount of accessories on the base model, straight forward no complicated luxury packages to choose from. Best of all there are many mods to add a few more H.P.!!

• 

  A Japan BMW, sure. But better? - 2006 Infiniti G35
  By Joe - November 1 - 9:33 pm

  My wife drives 05 Lexus ES330 while I drive 05 Infinite Q45. I had chances to drive a loaned 06 G35x for total length about 4 weeks (due to services of my Q). I agreed as every one says so far. But 3 shortcomings I have to mention: 1) Eng/Trans noisy; 2) hard suspension/very bumpy on the road; 3) steering is so tighten, you just cannot do single hand steering while turning. It is a great sport car, but not for family or long-distance commute. I had lots fun with it. For $38K, my wife and kids like the Lexus far better. BTW,I love my Q (100X better than G). If I have to spend $38K, I will buy a used Q45 for sure (diff btw Q & G is like day & night). Well, maybe not fair, for a Q owner to review G

• 

  DRIVER - 2004 Infiniti G35
  By Linda Rudzinskas - October 31 - 10:00 am

  Love this car...!! ALot of car for the money!