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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  NICE but could offer more - 2004 Infiniti G35
  By GWarr - September 19 - 10:00 am

  I purchased the G35 sedan with the premium sports package (upgraded brakes, bose sound system, rear spoiler, etc.) in May. This car is FUN to drive and handles like a dream. Trottle response and sport shifting is remarkable for an automatic. After testing several competing models, the G35 is the quickest and has the tightest suspension. More amenities would make this car much more attractive to "average buyer". Who is going to push a family sedan to 130mph on a consistent basis? The G35 needs more luxury items to match the TL and Saab 9 to balance out its superior performance.

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  Great Car Fun To Drive. - 2004 Infiniti G35
  By casey kulis - September 19 - 10:00 am

  Very comfortable,Very good looking in black,very fast.

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  Awesome Car! - 2007 Infiniti G35
  By Gwen - September 18 - 11:33 am

  I traded in my 2006 GS35 for the 2007 GS35 and let me tell you that so far it is worth every penny. There are significant differences when comparing the two. First and foremost, the power. The engine is powerful and smooth. You dont hear as bumps in the road as in the 2006. You have to watch the speedometer because getting up to 100 is easy. The interior quality definitely has improved significantly as well. If you want a fun car and reliable car to drive, this is it. Only regret is that I didnt hold off long enough to get this car first.

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  The 05 made the difference for us. - 2005 Infiniti G35
  By miata007 - September 13 - 6:03 pm

  The 05 sedan has the new look and interior that made us chose this car over the TL despite the G35 cost more. Our car has been very solid and rattle free(700 mi) and everything seems to be well put together like most Lexus that I have been into. This updated G35 should have been out few years ago.

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  infiniti g35 journey - 2007 Infiniti G35
  By newgs - September 13 - 10:46 am

  This G has real power and you can feel it on all levels. Gives you that great sound of the engine too without being annoying. Coming off a BMW 330; the G is just as good in terms of performance at a much lower cost. Also gets a lot of attention because of its awesome looks/exterior design. Nice space inside and not tight at all in the back seats, unlike others in the segment.

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  New and lovin it... - 2004 Infiniti G35
  By Cram - September 13 - 10:00 am

  For a while, I struggled btw a BMW and MB sedan. As for coupes...I always liked the Nissan Z but it was TOO sporty...Reminded me of a rich kids car that daddy would buy. When I saw the G35 sport coupe it had the distinguished look the Z lacked and it simply looked great. So I bought it. The Navi and Sat helped too...

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  Happy camper - 2004 Infiniti G35
  By Jack L - September 13 - 10:00 am

  I have owned two BMW 3-series and loved the quality of handling and the glass-smooth engines , but tired of the nuisance problems requiring service. My G-35 coupe feels tighter and more powerful than the BMWs and is definitely a head-turner as far as exterior styling. It is a fun driving experience for someone like me who isnt ready to throw in the towel and drive my "grandfathers bouncy sedan". If you think that a cars sole purpose is to get you from point A to point B, this isnt for you. However, if you want a car than can get you where youre going and let you have fun getting there, this is it.

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  Great coupe - 2005 Infiniti G35
  By Teranko - September 8 - 4:00 am

  Im totally impressed with this car. It is quick, responsive and a shear pleasure to drive. Im a little disappointed with the available headroom, as I am with most imports. Other than that, no complaints.

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  Fills the gap between - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By kfreefall - September 4 - 2:00 am

  The 6 Speed Sedan drives like an S- 2000 and still has room for passengers. The pure power of this motor coupled directly to the drive train is downright dangerous. My G35 Sedan 6 MT package came with the sport package: 17” wheels, lower profile tires and a slightly stiffer suspension. Control from behind the steering wheel is precise and predictable. The recent rains have provided several opportunities to test the tires and antilock brakes on the wet pavement. I’d swear the thing is on rails. The G35 I bought has the premium package. Well worth it if you can find it.

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  Garnet ember is the color - 2008 Infiniti G35
  By "G35XS" - September 3 - 5:10 am

  If you like a four door vehicle that combines performance, sport, luxury and all weather drive, the G35xS Infiniti is the best out there for the money. This vehicle turns heads and Im always getting personal compliments about this "G". 0-60 in 5.4 seconds or better with AWD, V6 and 5 speed automatic/manumatic this vehicle is a thrill to drive. I do know cars and research them. You have my honest recommendation this vehicle rides smooth, handles very well, very reliable and safe. Real premium comfy leather seats, Bose sound system, excellent brakes and low cost maintenance this is the best upscale vehicle to own and enjoy everyday.