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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  Best car for the money - 2004 Infiniti G35
  By jonathan2 - November 5 - 10:00 am

  For $35,000 there isnt a car that comes close. I looked at the BMW 330Xi first. It was $8,000 more and didnt have the power and some of the ammenities that the Infiniti had. You have to spend $50-$55k for a German vehicle that can compete with the G35. The Acura TL is nice but a front-wheel drive sedan with 270hp is something I would not drive. Test drove, after pulling out of the dealership the torque steer almost pulled the car into the left lane. Immediately went back to the dealer and gave back keys. Fine if you drive 55mph but if you are aggressive you do not want the TL.

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  Hot Rod - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By Thunder cloud - November 2 - 2:00 am

  I knew from the minute I saw and read about the car with my automotive background their was no car that is close to the G35 before the critics had got their hands on it. Ive had mine for 8 months already and get compliment after compliment from my clients and friends. The car really is a joy to drive. I would recommend the car to anybody. The service is lacking. But I do love my G35.

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  Seems to be better with age - 2008 Infiniti G35
  By paulo6 - October 30 - 12:50 am

  Just hit 4K miles and got the 1st oil change. I got the Sport package. The car seems to now loosen up a bit, giving it a higher FUN-TO-DRIVE. My 2006 6MT was more fun to drive, but this 09 xS edition is slowly catching up

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  Mostly happy - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By Fast n furious - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I just picked-up my G35 Coupe. I opted for the automatic and dont regret it a bit. The ability to shift and drive in traffic with a cell phone makes for a pleasant drive. The car is quick and fun to drive. I am still trying to find the most comfortable position for the drivers seat. Tawt ride and seats that hug (maybe a bit more that they should) lead to a bit of discomfort.

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  Best Bang for your Buck!! - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By Kingbird - October 28 - 2:00 am

  OUTSTANDING!!This is the best bang for your buck car available on the market! The Z is also if you like the look but I believe the G35 is much nicer looking.Fast,styling, dependable,(ie- not American made) Hottest car on the road for $30-$35K. Why spend more!! Dont settle for anything else!!

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  Be Very Very Careful - 2006 Infiniti G35
  By infinitelyunhappy - October 25 - 6:26 am

  Had the car two weeks and the transmission had to be replaced. Dealer GM treated me as if I was an idiot. No feedback from Infiniti after complaint. Now has developed rattles and tranny is still noisy and whines on decel. Stay away from this car. Infiniti/Nissan obviously does not care at all about Customer Satisfaction.

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  Walts Words - 2004 Infiniti G35
  By walternaut - October 25 - 5:20 am

  Test drove the BMW 325, Mercedes 230K, VW Passat,and an Acura TSX. All were too small for a person 6 feet tall who occassionally carry other passengers. The VWs performance was not on par with the other tested cars. Overall performance was above the others. Handling is "right now" with very accurate steering response, directional control and acceleration. The rearview mirror tends to block my center visions somewhat, but other than that this is a well balanced car. The dynamics of the vehicle impart the feeling of you being a better driver, able to respond and avoid obstacles dropped by careless movers--sofas, mattresses, etc.

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  6MT is NICE! - 2006 Infiniti G35
  By Hank Wake - October 19 - 10:20 am

  The G35 is a great bargain compared to other sport cars. I considered the IS350 and BMW 330. The 6 speed manual has a short throw that is fun to drive. I recommend the black interior, it looks better than the light colors. Bluetooth and Navigation are great options to consider. Other buyer are right on regarding the exterior looks - others will admire your car.

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  Fantastic - 2007 Infiniti G35
  By J - October 17 - 6:26 pm

  Ive had the 2007 Infiniti G35 for three weeks now. What a great car - handling, acceleration, comfort, and looks. 0 to 60 in 5.2 seconds is not a joke. Ive seen adult men drool while walking around my car. I would never have looked at the 06 and previous models. The redesign for 2007 is sharp and gorgeous.

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  make it a convetible - 2003 Infiniti G35
  By louis p. jenkins - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I had very good reviews with the car from the color I choose to the interior design to the pickup it has so in all if you want a "down low" car the I35 coupe is the best choice, not to take away from the Z350 but if nissan thinks about bring out a drop top then it should be for the I35.