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:
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infinite enjoyment - 2004 Infiniti G35
By rswestphal - March 19 - 2:00 amA virtual "slot car" in handling. Only negatives are side effects of high points, so rear seat room is minimal (kids only) and agressive Michelin "Pilot" series tires (235 (225 front)/ 45x18" on the 18" rims creates a noticeable road noise, especially (and oddly) at lower speeds around 30 mph. A minor "flaw" which is Michelins anyway, not the car. Excellent music system completely "covers" tire noise, but then may also cover the "sweet" exhaust note. Choices.
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my perfect car - 2004 Infiniti G35
By jdlsjf6 - March 19 - 2:00 amive had a wonderful experience with this vehicle. Before buying it I tested lexus, acura, mercedes and BMW and the G35 greatly exceded its compitition. its so much fun to drive, although it makes driving the speed limit a challenge:).
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Wow! Now this is a car!!! - 2003 Infiniti G35
By okie - March 17 - 8:23 amI just purchased my dream car this week - so far i am overwhelmed by the ultimate cool factor of this vehicle - feels like sitting in a cockpit of the finest machine on the road, goes zero to 60 in a zip...the power under the wheel is very evident, just the power and knowing its there makes for a very confident drive. Luxury is defined by this car, the quality is definitely there - and the sleek style of this machine inside and out makes me feel like the sexiest driver on the road.... yeow- sa...rrrrrrrrrrr
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2004 Infiniti G35 Coupe - 2003 Infiniti G35
By Susan - March 16 - 12:16 pmIt feels good to be able to drive a sports car for a change. The G35 is a true sports car with great acceleration, great handling and great feel for the road. I love its good looks and feel.
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No More BMWs - 2003 Infiniti G35
By Keithhere45 - March 12 - 10:00 amFinally a car that drives like my BMWs but has reliability, style, and much more value for the dollar. Sure, I have to pay for my oil changes, but for the money I saved, I can buy a lot of them! And the power is awesome.
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Best car I have ever owned. - 2003 Infiniti G35
By BladeRunner - March 9 - 10:00 amI have always owned small sports cars so this was a great option when I needed something bigger but still wanted something fast and fun. A great long term cruiser, that can also be a racer, and fold down the back seats, and your ready for a trip to Costco or Home Depot. After 2 years of ownership, I still get people who stop me and ask about the car. The service has also been very good. Cant beat the value either. Closest was the BMW 3 series at $7k more. Very few downsides, such as some of the interior quality could be better, speaker placement could be better to.
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2004 G35X AWD Infiniti, 6 mo Review - 2004 Infiniti G35
By paradigmslug - March 9 - 10:00 amThis is my 6 month review of this vehicle (I posted 1/23/04). Ive driven 7300 miles and have not had any mechanical or build quality issues. I have had two planned services (3500 & 7500) and have been provided with complimentary loaner vehicles. On a 250 mile trip to Las Vegas, I got 25 mpg (and I was travelling between 80 and 85). The car runs smooth and quiet (I have not experienced any rattle or shakes that some have commented on). My Bose sound is great and my XM has worked flawlessly. I average 18 mpg in everyday commuter travelling. I enjoy this vehicle very much and I have not had any buyers remorse. This Infiniti product is a good choice.
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G35 6MT coupe - 2004 Infiniti G35
By falconav8r - March 7 - 2:53 pmPurchased new, and have to say this is an incredible car. Still have the original Brembo pads. Ive modified the suspension with Eibach Pro springs, and have added a few goodies like a Vortech Supercharger. Pushing 390 rwhp, and car runs great. This car is a head turner, and I have had many people telling me how great it looks. Comfortable highway car, handles great, and still gets 23 mpg highway with all that horse power.
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Great car but fit and finish needs work - 2007 Infiniti G35
By efinity - March 6 - 11:26 amWe know the good points. My 6MT is in Lakeshore Slate and I was stuck with the black dash. The bumper paint is shades off from the body panels. The moonroof trim pieces keep falling in. The Washi katana trim in the door differs a shade from that in front of the passenger. The passenger seatbelt receiver is uncomfortably high for riders. The nav/radio console is trimmed in bright silver but other pieces are matte or brushed nickel, looking as if designed for a different car. The purple dash accent lighting differs from gauges to knob highlight rings. After a rain, opening the trunk lets water pour in from the perimeter of the lid. The carpet is a loose warpy fit in back. Mats are cheap, thin.
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fun as hell - 2003 Infiniti G35
By austinkev - March 5 - 2:00 amI just bought the car yesterday. My review is not based on much history, but from what I have seen so far, it is going to be a beautiful friendship. The car is so much fun to drive. It handles well, especially on the corners. The auto/standard trans makes it a blast to drive. It is very comfortable on trafic, and on the go. The Boss system sounds great. The noise from the road is almost nill. The back seat can actually hold an adult male, or lay the back seat down to hold lugage or clubs. I would buy this car all over again. It is also nice to not see any others of this model on the raod. Be ready for lots of looks. Enjoy.
