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:

• 

  So far so great - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By Chirocraig - May 24 - 10:00 am

  Although I have only had the car for a short three weeks, I love it to death....Its really fun to drive...I did have an annoying buzzing sound that came from the Bose speaker in the back...It was replaced and now I am 100% satisfied.

• 

  Maxima to G35 - 2005 Infiniti G35
  By jer - May 23 - 9:16 am

  Great driving car! Much better than FWD maxima,but not as much room. Reworked interior much improved for 2005,also more power. Feels as if your in a V-8. Had to give up sunroof due to headroom, and seat could be longer for better thigh support, but the way it handles makes up for having a smaller space. Anyone under 63" should be OK.

• 

  Best buy for the buck... - 2006 Infiniti G35
  By Bob C - May 17 - 10:16 pm

  This is my second G-35. My 2004 saved our lives when we had to do an emergency manuver on the interstate...without the breaks and quick steering response we would have "bought the farm". I cannot say enough about how fun it is to drive the G35. Everytime I get in it, I get a "rush". Highway driving is where it really shines. For the price you pay, I cannot think of a car that is more fun to drive with the performance the G35 gives. This is not a Lexus or a BMW or even a Acura TL...And I am thankful for that.

• 

  Best value for the dollar - 2005 Infiniti G35
  By jhoey - May 16 - 8:00 pm

  You cant find more bang and amenities for the buck. Considered BMW, 350Z, Audi TT, IS300, and others, but could not get the performance or features for anything close to the G. Best car and most fun to drive of any Ive owned.

• 

  Best Value - 2004 Infiniti G35
  By Car Nut - May 14 - 4:43 am

  Very fun to drive, could be faster but fast enough to get you in touble. Great on corner and turns, hit the Apex and gas it and the corners of your mouth will gravitate upward. No mech. problems and gas mileage is o.k. Ride is stiff at slow speeds but comfortable on highway when it really matters. Hey its not a sedan. Orginially purchased as 3rd car,only 3300 sunny miles first 9 months, then lost company car and moved away from family, drove 8+ hours on weekends to visit wife and kids and now drive everyday to work. Performed great as both play car and everyday car. Still gets complients from valets and random people in parking lots, young and old.

• 

  a drivers car, watch out bmw - 2005 Infiniti G35
  By maa1978 - May 13 - 7:40 am

  Drive this car the way it was made to be driven when you test drive the G35. You will be disappointed if you want luxurious feel. (not a g35). RWD is one of the main reasons I bought the car. Take notice that Lexus or Acura isnt in in the comparos with Infinity, BMW, Caddilac in most of the car magazines. You soon realize the G35 is all buisness when push the car hard and you unleash the hidden beast. The 6MT model is even more of a value. I know it doesnt drive 100% like a BMW, nor does it cost like one either. I bought this car for the long haul so I have little worries when the warranty runs out. Dont expect Civic gas mileage your getting 298hp not 98hp. I love this car!

• 

  Best Car Ive ever owned....but.... - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By Stan - May 13 - 2:53 am

  This one is a legit 6mt, with sport, luxury and Aero Kit from factory. Had to buy used in 2005 after 6 months of searching in LA area for this package, very rare. The car has been nothing but amazing. Great head turner despite popularity. Great power and manual transmission with precise shifting. A true drivers car. Had lowered and with 19" wheels from day one, great tire life and decent brake life as well. I drive the car as aggressively as I want, same gas mileage around 19-20 mpg mixed, or 23-25 on FWY. Installed intake and full exhaust for incredible sound and power that shocks 350z and G37 coupe drivers. Handles like its on rails at any speed or weather, granted this is LA.

• 

  Great Car - 2007 Infiniti G35
  By Keith - May 12 - 10:06 am

  I really like this car. A lot comparisons to BMW but I see way too many 3 series. I really enjoy driving the car.

• 

  WOW - 2007 Infiniti G35
  By B. Chatterjee - May 7 - 12:23 pm

  First of all, before I begin my review I have to confess that this is my first "luxury sport" purchase. I drove a Saturn prior to buying this car and man it was like a quantum jump onto another planet of driving. Before I purchased this vehicle, I test drove the BMW 330i and Audi A4/S4. For the price, this car just absolutely rocks. If you are a spirited driver and dont mind the 6-speed, I definitely recommend it. Infiniti has revised the interior to be much more pampering, somewhat comparable to a Lexus. I got the Sport 6MT with the premium package (major perk is that it adds the Bose Surround Sound System). Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase.

• 

  Its More Than I Expected! - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By HiHoMike - May 6 - 10:00 am

  I own a G35 Sedan equipped with prem. pkg., mud guards, wood interior and satellite radio. Shopped and driven MB C Class, and BMW "3" and "5" series. The G35 caught me completely off guard...I had no intention of purchasing a new car that day, I drove off 3 hours later with it. Accelleration/handling unbelievable. Driver comfort restricted by seat controls on the seat, yet the seat supported my back and thighs quite well. Quiet, responsive, luxurious, and fit better (Im 62", 240 lbs) than BMW 3 series or MB C Class. Sound system (Bose 200 watt) best Ive encountered and coupled with XM digital radio, theres nothing better available!